
Moving across the world to study can feel overwhelming, especially when you are leaving behind familiar places, family and routines. But for Emma from the USA, studying a Bachelor of Education (Primary) at Australian Catholic University has already become an exciting new adventure filled with sunshine, new friendships and opportunities to try different things.

Main entrance to Australian Catholic University, Brisbane.
When Emma was choosing where to study abroad, she wanted somewhere that felt comfortable in size and close to nature. She says one of the main reasons she chose ACU Brisbane was because the university felt like the right fit for her personally.
The location also stood out immediately. Being near the beach was a huge advantage, especially for someone moving from the United States to experience a completely different lifestyle and climate. Brisbane offered the balance she was looking for between city life and outdoor living.

International students are an integral part of Australian Catholic University.
One of the first things Emma noticed after arriving in Brisbane was the weather. Coming from a much colder part of the USA, stepping off the plane into the Australian heat was a shock in the best possible way.
Like many international students, Emma also arrived with a few funny expectations about Australia. She thought she would constantly see snakes and spiders everywhere, but so far that has not been the case. Instead, she has mostly spotted lizards and has been pleasantly surprised by how comfortable daily life feels.
After exploring Brisbane city, she even noticed similarities to Chicago, which helped her feel more at home.

Brisbane city at sunrise.
For Emma, studying abroad is not only about lectures and assignments. She is also excited to meet people, join activities and experience life in Australia outside the classroom.
ACU offers a soccer team that Emma plans to join, which she sees as a great way to stay busy and make friends. Student clubs and sports can make a huge difference for international students, especially during the first few weeks in a new country.
She also has a growing bucket list of things she wants to do while living in Brisbane. From visiting the beach for the first time to exploring more of the city, Emma is looking forward to trying “a bunch of different things in a place that’s so beautiful.”

Emma believes studying abroad is something students should absolutely consider, even if it feels intimidating at first. She describes the experience as something that may seem “crazy” in the beginning, but also believes it will lead to meeting lots of people and creating unforgettable memories.
For students considering studying a Bachelor of Education (Primary) in Australia, Brisbane offers a mix of warm weather, a relaxed lifestyle, beaches and a welcoming student environment. For many international students, it becomes not just a place to study, but a place to grow personally as well.