Étudier la communication à l'international : cap sur l'Australie avec Matea

Matea’s international journey in Australia

Hello Matea, can you introduce yourself and tell us about your background?

My name is Matea De Medeiros and I am currently in my fourth year at EFAP Paris. As part of this year, I am doing an exchange semester in Australia at Griffith University, on the Gold Coast campus.

Having always been drawn to artistic fields, particularly music and visual media, I chose EFAP to grow in an environment combining creativity and communication. My journey has allowed me to gain initial experience through internships in fashion, then in the music industry, before joining Canal+ (CSTAR) in content production and NRJ Group in event management. These experiences confirmed my interest in cultural industries. This semester abroad is therefore a continuation of this path, with the goal of strengthening my English and adding an international dimension to it.

Why did you choose to study abroad, and why this destination in particular?

This decision was driven by several goals: improving my English, which is essential in fields that interest me like music, and adding a more international dimension to the skills I developed during my experiences in France. As for the destination, I hesitated between the United States and Australia, but ultimately chose Griffith University for the quality and diversity of its program, directly aligned with my interests: music, cinema, and audiovisual production. I also chose the Gold Coast campus for its lifestyle, which offers a student experience that is both enriching and refreshing.

How are classes organized at your host university?

The system is quite different from what I knew in France. Each subject generally includes a theoretical course, often online, and a more practical in-person session. Assessments are spread throughout the trimester and often correspond to different stages of the same project.

This system requires a lot of autonomy: there are fewer class hours, but more personal work. Everything is highly digitalized and well organized, which makes it easy to keep track of coursework and submissions.

What program are you following there, and do you get to work on concrete projects?

I am following a program focused on music, cinema, and audiovisual production. At Griffith University, we can choose our courses, which allows us to build a highly personalized path. I selected four subjects: international journalism, music culture, music industry marketing, and film analysis. These courses combine both theoretical reflection and practical projects.

For example, in journalism, I am working on a project about Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl performance. In music marketing, I am developing a strategic analysis of an artist, Madison Beer. In cinema, I analyze films and will participate in creating a short film as part of a group. All courses are based on projects developed step by step throughout the semester, helping us build analytical, creative, and professional skills in an international context.

What are the main differences compared to your studies in your home country?

I would say the two systems are very complementary. At EFAP, I particularly appreciated the support, the close relationships with instructors, and the group dynamic. At Griffith University, the system is more autonomous. Each course brings together different students, which pushes us to constantly adapt and become more independent. The environment is also very international, with students from all over the world, which strengthens the use of English in a demanding academic setting.

What has this experience brought you academically and personally?

Academically, this experience has allowed me to quickly improve my English, especially in analytical and professional contexts. The courses also provide concrete skills in areas that interest me, while helping me develop a more international and analytical perspective. On a personal level, this experience has given me a lot of independence and self-confidence. Going abroad alone pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me create new reference points.

How was your integration on site?

The university organizes an orientation week called O-Week, with various events that help you quickly meet other students. Much of the welcome is handled by current students through a mentoring system, which really helps with getting settled. After that, campus life remains very dynamic with many activities, encouraging ongoing interaction.

What is student life like in your host city?

Student life is everywhere and truly part of daily life. There are many clubs: sports, music, leisure… For example, I joined the cheerleading club and the surf club with friends from EFAP. Everything is designed for students. Since we live directly on campus, we are constantly in contact with other students, which creates a unique “bubble” atmosphere.

Did you face any particular difficulties?

The main difficulty is the language in an academic setting. Attending technical courses and producing work in English requires extra effort. However, the teachers are very responsive and available by email. Even though the system requires autonomy, you never feel alone.

Has this experience influenced your career plans?

Yes, it mainly confirmed my career path. The courses allow me to explore different aspects of the music industry: business, journalism, and audiovisual production. This diversity helps me refine my vision of the sector.

What advice would you give to future students wishing to go abroad?

I would tell them to go for it without hesitation. It’s a unique experience that pushes you out of your comfort zone and helps you grow quickly. You should take advantage of every opportunity, connect with others, and get involved from the start. It’s a real asset for the future in an increasingly international professional environment.

How would you describe this experience in one word?

I would say it’s a waking dream. It’s exceptional on every level: academic, human, personal, and professional. It makes you want to open yourself even more to the world.