"I really feel this opportunity will give my CV a boost."

Participating in an overseas study program while at university is not only a great way to learn in a new and exciting environment, it’s also a chance to bolster your CV for when you graduate.

Three Deakin Business School (DBS) students will do exactly that this year.

Joden Crothers, Dinendra Jayasinghe and Charles Opatha will soon travel to Southwestern University of Finance and Economics (SWUFE) in Chengdu – one of China’s leading universities in the field of finance, economics and management – to represent DBS as student ambassadors.

Associate Professor Kerrie Bridson, Course Director, Bachelor of Commerce, says this is a chance for students to further their skills beyond the classroom and learn from other top students in the SWUFE global network.

‘This is the first time Deakin has had students participate in this program,’ Associate Professor Bridson says.

‘Being able to share this adventure with international professionals, as well as further their skills to propel them onto their future career paths, is a great opportunity for our students. Being involved with the wider student community on a global level, can excel participants to a new skill level.’

The students will be immersed in an extraordinary 14-day adventure, gaining an authentic taste of modern-day life in China, as well as an understanding of the historical, cultural and economic development of the Silk Road Economic Belt.

And, to balance out the academic aspect of the trip, students will also enjoy some downtime taking part in a Chinese cooking class and a variety of social activities, including calligraphy lessons, martial arts and learning traditional music.

Charles says he has always wanted to tick China off his to-do list and is thrilled to be tying this experience in with his study.

‘I can’t wait to experience different things in China, particularly the Panda Zoo. I am also very eager to learn about the history of China, as well as the business and financial markets,’ Charles says.

‘I really feel this opportunity will give my CV a boost and hopefully this experience will set me apart when talking to future employers.’

Dinendra says that he is honoured to be representing DBS as an ambassador.

‘I have been so privileged to participate in a number of activities during my time at Deakin, and I constantly strive to find opportunities that help me in my personal and professional development,’ Dinendra explains.

‘I really believe this experience will be a unique and valuable addition to my academic and career portfolio.’

Joden adds, ‘With accounting being so diverse right now, this opportunity to learn and engage at SWUFE will definitely advance my skills and hopefully give me an edge over other graduates.’

DBS strives to offer students a range of opportunities to gain real-world experiences while completing their business degree.

Dinendra, Joden and Charles will be documenting their time away and share their experiences on our newsroom upon their return.