Khaleel Lalji on moving from Nairobi to Melbourne to study FS

By Emily McAuliffe

Khaleel Lalji moved to Melbourne from Nairobi in Kenya to join Trinity's Foundation Studies program and says his Trinity experience is hard to put into words.

KhaleelWhat intake are you in at Trinity?

February Main.

Do you study online or in your home country? 

I was studying online from Nairobi, Kenya, but am now based in Melbourne.

How is living in Melbourne different compared to your home city? 

There is a lot more freedom in Melbourne in terms of being able to walk freely and take public transport, neither of which are possible in Nairobi. Additionally, the amazing food culture in Melbourne is exciting to explore, and similar to Nairobi.

Why did you choose Trinity? 

I always knew that I wanted to go to the University of Melbourne from a very young age and I also felt that two years of high school wasn’t the right fit for me, thus, a one-year program at Trinity suited me.

What did it mean to you to get a scholarship to attend Trinity College?

It means a lot to me that Trinity College recognised my past achievements and gave me recognition as well as the opportunity to study at such a prestigious establishment. I felt euphoric when I got the news. It was definitely one of the most memorable moments in my life.

How would you describe your experience at Trinity?

My experience at Trinity has truly been amazing and I find it hard to put into words. I can say that it has been like nothing that I have ever done before and has definitely pushed me to strive for greatness.

What’s your favourite thing about Trinity College?

For me, meeting people from all over the globe is my favourite thing about Trinity College. It’s such a melting pot of cultures and it truly gives you the opportunity to learn about different ways of life.

What do you think of the teaching style at Trinity?

The teaching style at Trinity is quite different from what I’m used to, but I definitely prefer it to what I have experienced in the past. The style of teaching gives students lots of freedom to work with their own methods, and this was really beneficial to me as it allowed me to learn at my own pace and I truly felt that my work was in my own hands.

What do you think of your teachers? 

The teachers at Trinity are so welcoming and warm, they really helped me to adjust to the new learning style and I know that they are always there to assist me.

What are your two favourite core subjects and why?

History of Ideas (HOI) and Drama are my favourite core subjects. I like HOI because it gives me the opportunity to critically analyse works from the past, in addition to learning about where modern ideas originated from, which I truly enjoy. Drama also appeals to me as I enjoy the interactivity. It is also a fun way to express myself.

What are your two favourite elective subjects and why?

Biology and Chemistry are my favourite elective subjects. Biology has always been one of my passions and the exciting way it is taught at Trinity captivates me. Chemistry, although hard, is also one of my interests as I think it’s fascinating to understand what everything is made of.

How do you think Trinity College Foundation Studies has prepared you for university studies and your career?

I feel that Trinity has greatly prepared me for university, as it has given me the opportunity to acclimatise to university-style teaching, which I think will be a huge advantage later.

Have you been able to make friends with other students?

Yes, I have been able to make a number of friends online but certainly look forward to meeting them all face-to-face soon!

Why did you want to go to the University of Melbourne?

Firstly, because I love Melbourne and the culture here. Secondly, the University of Melbourne has some of the most remarkable facilities and offers some of the most interesting and diverse programs. It is also the top university in Australia as well as being one of the highest-ranked universities in the world.

What degree do you want to study at the University of Melbourne?

Bachelor of Science, most likely with a focus on Agricultural Science.

Would you recommend Trinity College to other students? 

I would definitely recommend Trinity College to other students, especially if they are up for a challenge as well as a fun time.

 

19 Nov 2021
Category: Foundation Studies