For Harshini Rathika Kishore Kumar Singh, a dream that began in Class 12 has finally materialized into a life-changing reality at Deakin University in Australia. The ambitious student is currently pursuing an MBA (International) with a specialization in Digital Transformation, completely funded by the prestigious Deakin Vice-Chancellor's Meritorious Scholarship.
From Tamil Nadu Classroom to Global Ambitions
Harshini's international journey started at Vikaasa World School in Tamil Nadu, where she studied under the Cambridge curriculum. This early exposure to global education standards ignited her desire to think beyond her hometown. Her educational path then led her to Bengaluru for a BBA in Entrepreneurship at Jain University, where she developed her business acumen.
During this period, a pivotal 50-hour internship with Teach For India revealed the stark educational disparities faced by rural children. This experience motivated her to establish Rural Tech Rise, an initiative that has since impacted over 50 government schools through mobile libraries, robotics workshops, internet literacy sessions, and entrepreneurship programs.
The Decade-Long Dream Realized
Australia had always been Harshini's dream destination, long before she fully understood global education systems. As she matured, the country's culture, safety, and international collaboration opportunities made it the perfect choice. Deakin University was always her Plan A, a goal she nurtured for nearly ten years before making it happen.
The scholarship application process was rigorous, involving written applications, video submissions, online interviews, and a final in-person round in Delhi. Her dedication to Rural Tech Rise played a crucial role in securing the 100% scholarship, which provided not just financial freedom but also access to a community of outstanding scholars.
Building a New Life in Melbourne
Despite visa delays that caused her to miss two weeks of classes and orientation, Harshini's arrival in Melbourne felt like stepping into her vision board. Her mother accompanied her initially, helping with the emotional and practical transition. She quickly adapted to her new environment, catching up on coursework while exploring campus life.
Harshini has immersed herself in university activities, joining the Deakin Dance Club and working to establish the Deakin Innovation and Startup Club (DISC). Through her sister's referral, she secured a part-time position as a medical receptionist, working 24 hours weekly during trimesters and full-time during breaks.
The supportive environment in Australia has made her feel instantly at home. From strangers offering help in supermarkets to friendly tram conductors and lecturers who remember her name as a VC Scholar, these small gestures have eased her transition significantly.
Transformative Educational Experience
Harshini notes significant differences between her educational experiences in India and Australia. The flexibility at Deakin University stands out particularly - there's no mandatory attendance, with emphasis placed on learning outcomes and assessment performance. This approach fosters a sense of ownership over one's education that she deeply appreciates.
Her Cambridge schooling background proved invaluable in preparing for this environment, strengthening her communication skills and confidence. Meanwhile, her undergraduate education at Jain University instilled discipline, punctuality, and time management - essential skills as she balances classes, part-time work, her startup, and responsibilities as a scholar.
Reflecting on her journey, Harshini emphasizes that studying abroad has fundamentally transformed her. Emotionally, mentally, and professionally, she's not the same person who boarded the flight from India. Living independently has made her more mature and grounded, teaching her to manage finances, take responsibility for decisions, and maintain consistency in pursuing her goals.
Her message to aspiring students is clear: Your dreams are valid regardless of your background. She acknowledges there will be delays, visa stress, homesickness, and doubt, but emphasizes that consistent work and clear vision will eventually make dreams achievable. The moment you land in a new country, every struggle feels worth it, she assures.
