Photo courtesy of Magui Ford
With Singapore Airlines, Magui Ford shares how her life in Melbourne allowed her to embrace a new sense of self
Away from the sights and sounds of Manila, lifestyle influencer and senior at the University of Melbourne Magui Ford Planas has made herself at home in the land Down Under. It was a love for travel, adventure, and the desire for new horizons that led Ford to pursue her studies overseas.
“Since I was younger, I’ve always been interested in knowledge from abroad, like, what’s happening outside the country. It’s a complex web of interactions and organizations that shape our world. That was just really interesting to me,” Ford shares. A big culture and history buff, she majors in politics and international studies with a minor in economics.
The learning opportunities are endless in Melbourne, especially for a young adult just learning to spread her wings. Outside the classroom, the multicultural city has taught Ford independence and, most of all, growth. “I learned how to react to people. I learned how other people react to me. I learned how to talk better with people, choosing my words wisely. I just love to learn from other people,” Ford gushes.
But like most young adults on the cusp of change in a new city, Ford felt overwhelmed by managing her academics while also getting herself situated. “That was the biggest challenge for me; balancing my studies, making sure I did well, and at the same time, getting to know a new city, not knowing anyone here. I’m alone and I miss my family,” Ford shares.
Over time, Ford eventually found her footing. Having spent the last two years in between cities for school and leisure, Ford says she’s got traveling down pat, made easier with frequent flier programs like Singapore Airlines’ KrisFlyer and its Student Privileges Programme. Under the Student Privileges Programme, international students like Magui can verify their KrisFlyer accounts to unlock discounted fares, flexible bookings, and increased baggage allowance.
The additional baggage came in handy when Magui struggled with homesickness during her first year living in Melbourne. That’s why, whenever returning to Australia, she packs extra bags full of sentimental mementos such as decor pieces, snacks, and even her mom’s clothes taken from under her nose.
“Extra baggage allowance was a game changer for me because that allowed me to carry my essentials, but at the same time things that I want to bring back from home. I think that extra space just made my journey more smooth, less constrained, and less stressful, which is really nice, especially traveling as a student,” Ford says, her face lighting up at the mention of pasalubong.
And in true Filipino spirit where the good times never end and goodbyes take forever, sometimes a quick trip home turns into extended family time so Ford is also no stranger to changing up her return flights.
“If my mom gave me a dollar for every time I’ve decided to rebook a flight [back to Melbourne] because I wanted to stay longer, I’d probably be rich. My mom will be like, “Anak balik ka na” (Magui, go back now) and I said “Not yet!”. That was really good. It’s very reassuring that, with the student privileges, you’ll be fine when you need to rebook.”
Comfort is crucial for the 22-year-old Ford who admits to not being the best flier. To curb any travel anxieties, she tries to travel efficiently by getting to the airport early and spends any idle time reading a book or studying at the lounge. In-flight, she enjoys a glass of wine or cup of tea from the airline’s curated wine and tea selection and, if she’s cleared her to-do list off, she’ll watch a movie to keep her mind at ease.
Ford also says that the care of the ground staff and cabin crew has helped ease her worries during her travels. “It’s kind of nurturing, because you feel well taken care of and it’s comfortable. You know, it’s seamless, it’s convenient. It’s all the good things a flier can ask for,” Ford recalls with a smile.
The doors to more adventures still remain wide open even as Ford starts bringing bits of her life back home to the Philippines. She’s considering further studies in diplomacy, international development, or economic development to engage with communities all over the world.
“My perspectives have changed in terms of how I see myself, as a person, as a student, as a woman,” Ford muses. “Traveling isn’t just for the sake of getting out of the country or a change of scenery. It’s more like a catalyst for self discovery and learning. You kind of have to do it to see the biggest growth in your life.”
This story is a paid advertorial for Singapore Airlines. Sign up for a KrisFlyer account via Krisflyer.com and verify your student status to start booking and enjoy exclusive perks under the Student Privileges Programme. For more information, visit singaporeair.com.
