What started as a gap year in Australia turned into a nursing degree at UTS.

Leo’s pathway into university was anything but typical.

Born in Russia, Leo completed his secondary schooling in Thailand. It was there he finished his International Baccalaureate, before heading to Adelaide for a gap year.

When it came to choosing a degree, Leo found himself drawn to both medicine and nursing. It helped that healthcare already ran in the family, both his grandmother and mother worked in the industry.

He had heard about UTS and its strong reputation for the Bachelor of Nursing. When it came to choosing where to study, Sydney, and UTS, felt like the right place to make his own mark.

He applied, was accepted, and also received the UTS Scholarship for European Undergraduate StudentsThis helped him to focus on his studies from the very start.

A new chapter

Now in his second year, Leo has settled into university life with ease. He lives on campus, which has allowed him to be close to classes, connected to campus life, and part of the wider UTS community. 

The support he has found at UTS has made an impression too. 

"For international students, UTS is really convenient. It's right in the middle of the city."

Portrait

"I really like the nursing tutors and the nursing clinical practice unit. Everyone who works in the nursing team responds quickly and are very supportive."

Leo Kulinich

Bachelor of Nursing student

Outside of class, Leo keeps active and has found that building a community outside of campus has been just as rewarding. He makes the most of his time in Australia by traveling, mentioning the Blue Mountains as a recent trip. He has also dipped into campus life by attending meetups for the Thai Society and Slavic Society. 

A clear destination

While many students are still figuring out what comes after graduation, Leo already has a plan. He is interested in pursuing cosmetic nursing, which is a rapidly growing field. He also intends to round out his education at UTS with a Graduate Certificate in Nursing Education at UTS. 

For first-year and international students finding their own way, his advice is characteristically direct and determined. 

“Be curious, be yourself. If you’re not sure, always ask."

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