Hi!!! My name is Hannah Langston and I am an upcoming senior who just returned from an incredible semester abroad. During the spring semester of my junior year, I studied in Gold Coast, Australia at Griffith University. I chose to study abroad because I had never been out of the country before and I wanted to experience life from a completely new perspective. I hoped to gain new connections, expand my worldview, and fulfill a dream I had held for years of studying in Australia. The location’s mix of beautiful beaches, diverse culture, and welcoming community made it the perfect place for my first international experience.
I participated in the program through USAC, the University Studies Abroad Consortium. It appealed to me because it was well organized, affordable, and provided strong student support. From the beginning, USAC made the process smooth by guiding me through course selection, housing options, and preparation for life overseas. The program’s reputation for offering an immersive and well-rounded experience gave me confidence that it was the right choice.
During my semester abroad, I was based in the Gold Coast, which quickly became one of my favorite places in the world. The city is famous for its sunny weather, stunning beaches, and laid-back atmosphere, but it also has a vibrant city life with shops, restaurants, and cultural events. I lived near Surfers Paradise, a lively beachfront area known for its golden sand, impressive waves, and a constant energy from both locals and visitors.
While studying at Griffith University, I took every opportunity to explore other parts of Australia. I traveled north to Cairns, where I experienced one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the world, the Great Barrier Reef. Swimming alongside colorful coral and marine life was something I will never forget. While there, I went scuba diving for the first time and was amazed by the vibrant coral, colorful fish, and even a sea turtle that swam right past me. It was a surreal and peaceful moment that I will carry with me forever. I visited Sydney and explored iconic spots like the Sydney Opera House, Bondi Beach, and the coastal walk to Coogee. I also took a ferry to Manly, which offered beautiful views of the harbor and a charming, relaxed beach town feel. In Byron Bay, I enjoyed its artistic, bohemian vibe and the stunning Cape Byron lookout. Coolangatta provided a quieter, more peaceful beach experience, while the Australia Zoo gave me the chance to see kangaroos, koalas, and other native wildlife up close. Each destination had its own personality and charm, and together they gave me a well-rounded view of Australia’s diversity.
The USAC program made these experiences possible through its strong academic and cultural structure. I was able to choose courses that fit my degree while also giving me the chance to learn about Australia’s history, environment, and culture. One of my favorite classes was an environmental sustainability course that included fieldwork in local ecosystems, which helped me connect what I learned in the classroom to the natural beauty around me. The program organized excursions and provided helpful travel resources so students could explore safely and confidently. USAC also encouraged local engagement, from community events to cultural activities, which helped me connect with both international students and Australians. I loved attending an Australian Rules Football game with friends, trying classic Aussie meat pies, and picking up phrases and slang that made me feel even more connected to the local culture.
Living and studying in Australia changed the way I see the world. I learned to adapt quickly to new situations, navigate unfamiliar cities, and communicate across cultures. I gained independence, confidence, and a deeper appreciation for cultural differences. I also built friendships with people from all over the world, friendships that I know will last well beyond my time abroad.
For anyone considering studying abroad, I would say to embrace every opportunity, even if it feels outside your comfort zone. Some of my best memories came from spontaneous decisions, like taking a last-minute weekend trip or trying a food I had never heard of before. Studying abroad is not just about seeing new places, it is about fully experiencing them and allowing them to change you. My semester in Australia will always be one of the most meaningful and transformative experiences of my life, and I encourage every student to take the chance if they can! 🙂
Hannah Langston (BS Accounting) spent the Spring 2025 semester studying abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with USAC. Hannah had the following to say about studying abroad, “Studying abroad changed the way I see the world. It pushes you to try new things and meet new people. If you get the chance to go, take it. You will learn more about yourself and the world than you ever expected. :)”
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