G’day everyone! My name is Mya, and approximately 8 months ago, I packed my life up and moved halfway across the world to Brisbane, Australia for my exchange at the . Looking back now on my time abroad, I can honestly say it was one of the most transformative experiences of my life. I will be forever grateful for the opportunities I had to grow as an individual, the friendships I built, and the unforgettable experiences that shaped my global perspective in ways I never could have imagined.
To start with academics, the offered me a unique experience to engage in courses not available at Queen’s, such as Music Psychology. My professor for this course also connected content to Australian culture, which allowed me to explore the country’s history, traditions, and identity, deepening my appreciation for the place I was lucky enough to call home for six months.
Just as meaningful as the academics was my time living in a dorm catered to exchange students, International House, where I met many of my closest friends. After living and travelling together for months, I now have these lasting friendships all over the world – from Australia itself to the UK, Vietnam, Singapore, and beyond.
However, I must admit that my favourite memories occurred outside of the classroom, in and around the beautiful country of Australia. Travelling around such a large country could be difficult at times, but the incredible scenery was absolutely worth it. Australia has something for everyone – whether it is hiking through rainforests, trying amazing foods of any cuisine, or surfing at world-renowned beaches (which for me, was more falling than actually surfing!).
From Melbourne to Cairns to Sydney, I tried to see as much of the country as I could, but Brisbane held a special place in my heart. My favourite part of the city was the lush botanical gardens, where I spent countless hours exploring, reading, and having picnics. Brisbane is also at the epicentre of some of Australia’s most beautiful beaches; with the Gold Coast to the south and the Sunshine Coast to the north, you truly cannot go wrong. Another highlight was my trip to Tasmania, where my friends and I explored and hiked our way around the entire island state in just five days!
In terms of advice for future exchange students, the most important lesson I can share is say yes to absolutely every opportunity, and embrace the lows just as much as the highs! The moments that felt the hardest are now some that I am the most grateful for, because they helped me become a stronger, more independent, and open-minded person. It is inevitable that these hard moments will arise, but leaning into those experiences rather than resisting them is what makes exchange so transformative.
So, if you have the chance, take that leap and go on exchange – I promise, it will be one of the best decisions you’ll ever make.
