KBS graduate, Melly Arias, shares student perspectives at AIEC 2026
Kaplan Business School MBA graduate, Melly Arias from Chile, took centre stage at the 2026 Australian International Education Conference (AIEC), joining a panel of four international students and graduates to share her perspective on the public misconceptions versus the reality of international students studying in Australia. Held in Sydney from 27 to 30 October, the conference brought together education leaders, policymakers and industry professionals to explore the future of international education under this year's theme, Future Thinking.
Melly joined the plenary discussion, Future Thinking: What International Students Really Think About Australia, moderated by Australian journalist and television presenter Annabel Crabb, which was held in front of an audience of over a thousand industry professionals, which included Assistant Minister for International Education, Julian Hill.
Representing the private higher education sector, Melly highlighted the value of smaller, more personalised learning environments and the importance of practical career support:
“Private providers excel at giving personalised, human-centric support and agile career guidance, which can sometimes feel diluted in massive, multi-campus public universities.”
Melly shared that postgraduates invest in more than a degree, they seek professional networks, practical business skills and opportunities to gain valuable industry experience. However, changing post-study work policies can create uncertainty for students planning their future careers.
Drawing on her professional background in student recruitment and consulting, Melly called for greater transparency and consistency in government policies affecting international students.
“The government and sector leaders need to give students clear, stable frameworks from day one so they can plan their financial and professional futures without fear of the goalposts being moved mid-degree.”
Melly Arias and KBS lecturer Casey Parkes.
Joining students from universities, vocational education and other higher education providers, Melly helped highlight the diversity of international student experiences and the importance of ensuring voices are heard in policy discussions.
Melly's participation in AIEC 2026 reflects the value of student perspectives in shaping a more supportive, inclusive and career-focused international education sector.
Kaplan Business School congratulates Melly on representing the international student community at AIEC 2026 and contributing her voice to this important national conversation.