Studying abroad in Gold Coast, Australia, was honestly one of the most unforgettable experiences of my life. From the moment I arrived, I felt both excited and a little nervous but that’s what made it so incredible. I chose this program because I wanted a mix of adventure, culture, and academics, and the Gold Coast delivered all of that and more.
One thing that completely blew me away was the scenery. The beaches are unreal, Surfers Paradise is iconic, but even the quieter stretches felt like a hidden paradise. Everything there was just breathtaking. Being surrounded by that kind of natural beauty every day made me appreciate how important it is to slow down and really experience where you are.
Academically, the program was challenging but in a really good way. Classes were interactive, and we did projects that were connected to real Australian businesses, which made everything feel relevant. I loved learning about marketing and business through a completely different perspective, and getting to hear ideas from classmates from all over the world made discussions so much more interesting. It really showed me how different cultures think about problem-solving and creativity.
But what really made the experience unforgettable were the people and the little everyday moments. Living on my own in a new country pushed me out of my comfort zone, having to figure out public transportation, cooking for myself, making friends from scratch, it wasn’t always easy, but it made me way more independent and confident. One of the best parts of the USAC program was living in an apartment building with 52 other study abroad students. Being surrounded by people going through the same experiences made it easy to feel connected and less alone. On top of that, the program organized plenty of trips and social events, which gave all of us the chance to meet and bond. Experiencing a different way of life and seeing how other people live their everyday lives is something I didn’t even realize I was missing.
Traveling around and exploring Australia with friends was a blast. I got the privilege to visit over 10 cities, traveling through 4 of the 6 states. Whether we were hiking, snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef, or just chilling on the beach chatting for hours, those memories are the ones I’ll carry forever. One of my all time favorite destinations was Sydney, it was one of those places I could envision my future at. The people, the environment, the sheer beauty was amazing. I think what I learned most is that studying abroad isn’t just about classes or sightseeing, it’s about growth, connection, and learning to navigate the world in your own way.
This experience has completely changed how I see myself and what I want for my future. I feel more adaptable, open-minded, and ready to take on challenges I might have avoided before. Studying abroad taught me that some of the best lessons in life happen outside the classroom, and sometimes all it takes is stepping into the unknown.
Gloria Meads (BS Marketing) spent the Spring 2025 semester studying abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with USAC. Gloria had the following to say about studying abroad, “Studying abroad taught me that growth happens when you step outside your comfort zone. Embrace new cultures, meet new people, and explore every opportunity.”
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