This week, I sat down with Sandeep (Sam) Sharma, the visionary founder of Overseas Students Australia, an essential platform dedicated to aiding international students navigating life in Australia. Sam shared the inspiration behind his initiative and insightful advice for students embarking on their overseas education journey.
đź“ŤQ: What inspired you to start Overseas Students Australia, and what personal or professional experiences influenced your decision to focus on this specific audience?
Sam: “I started Overseas Students Australia in 2017 out of a clear need for a comprehensive information platform for international students. Drawing from my own experiences as a former international student and my extensive background in teaching international students, I wanted to empower students with the essential pillars for studying, working, and living in Australia. My journey was about bringing firsthand experience to the table and truly understanding the challenges these students face.”
đź“ŤQ: What were the initial challenges you faced in creating a digital platform for international students, and how have you evolved the platform to keep up with their changing needs?
Sam: “In the beginning, I was a one-man show, balancing being the face of the company and building the platform. It took four years to earn my first dollar, which speaks volumes about the dedication required. Initially, funding everything from my own pocket was tough, but seeing the appreciation from students who benefit from our platform makes it all worthwhile. Today, we’re not just a website; we’ve expanded to YouTube, social media, and comprehensive guides, creating a one-stop resource for international students.”
đź“ŤQ: What are the top three pieces of advice you would offer to international students who are just beginning their studies abroad?
Sam: “First, have patience. Settling into a new country and culture takes time, but everything will eventually fall into place. Second, diversify your social circle. Make an effort to meet people from different backgrounds and embrace their perspectives—this will broaden your own views. Lastly, be aware of the disparity between social media portrayals and reality. It’s important not to let social media set your expectations or dictate your life decisions.”
đź“ŤQ: One message for the world?
Sam: “We’re running short on kindness. We need to be more kind. Being kind to each other is more crucial now than ever.”
✨Key Takeaways:
Sam’s dedication to creating a supportive community for international students is evident in how he has built Overseas Students Australia. His insights remind us of the importance of patience, open-mindedness, and the real values we should cherish in our interconnected world.
