To reach the peak of the business world you have to be able to adapt quickly to any situation, says University of the Sunshine Coast Business student Andre Ali.

It was this attitude that inspired Andre, 25, to sign up for a superhero transformation in readiness for USC’s super power themed Imaginarium and Open Day on Sunday 7 August.

The international student was one of eight students whose superhero transformations, based on their strengths and interests, are helping to promote the annual USC family fun day and information event for prospective students.
 
Andre said moving to Australia from Germany to study on the Sunshine Coast had been another transformative experience.

“I was only planning to be here for one year, but I liked studying here so much that I’ve decided to stay until the end of my degree,” he said.

“I think the international business field is constantly evolving and changing. It’s a perfect area for me to study because I’m a pretty adaptive person and I love applying my knowledge to different situations.”

Andre will don his superhero outfit once again for Imaginarium, at which community members will be urged to consider how their individual strengths might become “super powers” through education. They can also come dressed as superheroes and be part of the Coast’s biggest ever superhero photo.

The major Imaginarium prize this year is a superhero transformation for one lucky winner and two friends. To be in the running, go to: www.usc.edu.au/win

Andre said after initially being nervous about the makeup, costuming and photo shoot process involved in his superhero makeover, he had loved every moment.

“I’d never done anything like that before, but I’ve always loved comics and superheroes and I wanted to seize the opportunity,” he said.

“It’s the same advice I’d give to someone unsure about studying: take the plunge, because there’s support there and you’ll never regret it.”

USC’s Imaginarium and Open Day will be held at its Sippy Downs campus from 10am to 2pm. For more details go to: www.usc.edu.au/imaginarium/

— Gen Kennedy