Currently a second-year Finance & Accounting student, Shanon Minkley gives us a glimpse into her student life, in the heart of Moka.
A fulfilling internship in the Tax Department at PwC Mauritius prompted Shanon to pursue her tertiary studies in Finance and Accounting. When she discovered Curtin Mauritius, where no less than 1900 students are enrolled, she was instantly drawn to the campus: “Nature, mountain ranges, the architecture, the serenity; I loved it all, and could really see myself being there.” Once an introvert, she recalls her last two years with delight, which she claims “allowed herself to open up to others and really grow.” A university ambassador, captain of the volleyball teams and secretary of the “Millenium Aiders” association, each day brings Shanon a new adventure.
“My friends make fun of me saying it’s like I live here.”
7.30am. Like every morning, the mathematics enthusiast joins her classmates in the campus cafeteria. Tea, coffee, croissants… they enjoy breakfast together before their first lecture. “My friends make fun of me saying it’s like I live here,” Shanon shares. The student, who attends lecture four times a week, spends her free time in the university’s library or auditorium, her very own HQ. “It’s better than being alone at home. I make the most of the facilities on campus and am always surrounded by my friends,” she explains. Between lectures, the young girl enjoys spending time with her classmates at the newly inaugurated lounge. “We play table football, ping pong, billiards, or we just sink into the bean bags and have a chat.”
10.30am. Beyond academics, Shanon is actively involved in campus life. As an ambassador, she is often called upon to represent the university at official events, like graduation, hosting distinguished guests and at career fairs. She is also responsible for answering any questions new students might have during Orientation Week.
12.00pm. At lunchtime, Shanon and her gang set out for a quick lunch at the mall. Their options: Bagatelle Mall, Les Allées or Kendra. Her favourite restaurants? Wok Inn, Moka’z and KFC. Their proximity is a real plus point: “We have unlimited options just a few steps away from campus!” These outings allow her to “have a good time and to unwind,” especially during exam time. She is also looking forward to the completion of La Promenade, which will fringe the university and its residences. A 3.8-kilometre stretch, this promenade is ideal for a morning jog before a lecture or a pleasant off-campus stroll.
1.30pm. Back to the university for her second lecture of the day, before donning her running shoes and activewear. A fervent volleyball player since her high school days, Shanon manages both the male and female teams at Curtin University. The boys, for their part, won second place at the inter-university competition in 2018. From recruitment to training, Shanon has more than one trick up her sleeve!
3.00pm. Yet another meeting awaits the student. This time, it’s a meeting with the members of the ‘Millenium Aiders’ Association, created by a group of student volunteers. On their agenda: a food drive for low-income families, and visits to a retirement home and an orphanage. Launched in April, the association seeks to involve itself in environmental protection and the welfare of stray animals. Only a few of the many projects that fascinate the secretary of the association!
5.00pm. After a hectic day, the ambassador heads home to Sorèze by car or by bus. All she needs to do is hop onto the shuttle that runs from the bus stop to campus all day along. “Super practical!” exclaims Shanon with enthusiasm.
One thing is certain: Shanon Minkley is living her best life at Curtin Mauritius.