My time studying abroad in Australia is an experience I will never forget. From applying on a whim to walking to lectures in the Brisbane sunshine, every step of the journey has shaped me in ways I never anticipated. 

Pre-Departure: Planning & Paperwork 

UoN (University of Nottingham) offered brilliant support in the lead-up to the exchange. The advisors were friendly and patient with my endless questions. They hosted a number of talks and workshops to prepare us for cultural differences, weather extremes (cyclone season), and practicalities like packing. 

One of my biggest tips? Create a travel folder with everything you might need: 

• Passport and visa (Subclass 500) 

• Medical insurance documents 

• Flight bookings and college payment receipts 

• Accommodation contact information and details (in my case, Grace College)  

• Confirmation of enrolment 

• University of Nottingham and tutor contact details 

I also made a copy of these for my family, just in case. Having everything in one place gave me peace of mind. 

Grace College: A Home Away From Home 

Before going, I spoke to past study abroad students who highly recommended staying in college accommodation. I chose Grace College, and I can wholeheartedly say it was the perfect fit for me. 

Grace felt like more than accommodation; it was a community. Picture long communal dining tables, weekly themed dinners, college merch, and even robes at formal academic dinners. It reminded me of something out of a movie. 

UQ’s colleges are more than just dorms; they have their own traditions, sports teams, events, and inter-college club nights (every Thursday and Sunday!). Whether you’re social or introverted, there’s something for everyone. The staff were incredibly supportive, and I honestly believe that being part of college life made my experience what it was. I felt so welcomed into a wonderful community of students from an array of ages who were all open to new experiences, fun and opportunities. They became my family away from home. 

Life at UQ: Studies, Societies, and Sunshine 

Academically, I was aware that since my exchange was only one semester, my grades would count toward my degree and as such I dedicated several hours per week to keep on top of my work amongst all the fun and excitement. This helped me stay on top of deadlines while still enjoying the experience and having a great time. The workload I would say is similar to mine as a history student at Nottingham. Despite having slightly more assessments at UQ, there was more of a range in terms of the weight of assessments which I personally preferred as it allowed me more time to get to grips with writing styles and expectations.  

As for everyday life, I quickly fell into a routine of walking to classes across a beautiful, leafy campus. Everyone was so welcoming. I got involved with QUEST (the exchange student society) and made amazing friends from all over the world. 

Despite the nerves, I was surprised by how quickly I felt at home. It didn’t take long for the new environment to feel like the norm. 

It’s Not Always Easy: Homesickness and Culture Shocks 

That’s not to say it was all smooth sailing. Homesickness definitely hit, especially when things didn’t go my way.  Inevitably there will be days when you want to hug your mum and question why you set out on this journey but with perseverance and a supportive circle of friends, you will get through it! 

I can’t praise the support enough, from college staff to UQ counsellors, there was always someone to talk to. Surrounding myself with good friends and staying busy helped massively. 

And weirdly enough, I found that adjusting to life abroad was easier than I thought. I’d expected to feel completely out of place, but because I was constantly meeting new people and trying new things, the nerves quickly faded. 

Finances: Budgeting Smartly 

Before going, I researched student budgeting tips and set myself a goal: $100 AUD per week (roughly £50), though this was easier to stick to because I was in prepaid, catered accommodation. 

I opened a Monzo Premium account, which gave me discounted airport lounge access (very handy during my 4-hour flight delay!) and allowed me to split money into different “pots” to help manage spending. The Premium plan also didn’t charge currency exchange fees. 

Prices weren’t wildly different from the UK, especially given the cost-of-living crisis at home. I got used to mentally halving prices (AUD → GBP) when shopping. Budgeting is something completely unique for every individual. Because I worked hard at my job at home prior to my journey I wanted to prioritise having money for activities such as college balls, trips and socialising with friends.  

Travel Highlights 

Throughout the semester I went on several trips with my friends. I was very fortunate in that everyone was so welcoming and hospitable that I was invited to several of my friends’ houses throughout my stay. I went to my friend’s town of Toowoomba and the Sunshine Coast as well as longer excursions to Melbourne and going to my first rodeo in Mareeba when visiting my friend Megan in Northern Queensland.  

At the end of the semester, my family visited, and we took an unforgettable trip together to Port Douglas and Sydney. I snorkelled in the Great Barrier Reef and climbed the Sydney Harbour Bridge, literal bucket list moments. 

Australia is so diverse, from Aboriginal culture in the Daintree Rainforest to the buzz of Sydney. If you can travel, do it. It’s absolutely worth it. 

Staying Connected 

Keeping in touch with home was really important to me. I used WhatsApp and FaceTime a lot (thankfully the WiFi was good!). I originally didn’t get a local SIM card; instead, I used WiFi and had an international plan on my phone. In the end, I bought a pay as you go e-sim just for my UQ student account, but I wouldn’t say this was necessary and it was very easy to set up if you did need to. 

I also left emergency info with my family, including flight details, medical info, and my accommodation contacts, just in case. 

Final Reflections 

By the end of the semester, I didn’t want to leave. I held a koala. I danced at college balls. I made friends who feel like family and whom I still speak to regularly, some have even visited the UK since. 

Studying abroad gave me confidence, resilience, independence, and memories that will stay with me forever. 

I can’t emphasise enough that if you have the opportunity to study abroad, take it!  

Do it. Even if you’re unsure. Even if it scares you. 
Because you never know where it will take you, and it just might be the best decision you ever make. 

Nadzieja studied History at University of Queensland for Spring semester of 2023/2024 academic year through our International Exchange programme