Do you dream of seeing dolphins up close, learning to surf or taking a selfie with a quokka?
Australia is a country which captures the world’s imagination, with its pristine beaches, vast and untouched landscapes and incredible outdoor opportunities.
If you’ve been thinking about your own adventure Down Under, studying abroad is an amazing way to gain a global perspective and enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Employment skills to set you apart
George Mason University (GMU) Environmental and Science student Elisabeth Hilton says choosing to study abroad in Australia during her freshman year was a chance to not only indulge in a passion for travel, but also to stand out to employers once she returned home.
“When I saw Perth was an option to travel to and study, I was so excited: there is so much wildlife there that cannot be seen anywhere else,” she says.
“I looked into Curtin’s environmental courses and saw how highly rated they are for their academic standards and teaching staff, so I knew it was where I wanted to go.”
With Curtin’s courses focused on offering practical experiences and industry opportunities, Elisabeth had the chance to gain firsthand experience with organisations such as Perth Zoo, Bamford Consulting and Co-Exist Australia.
It was an educational and life experience she says she couldn’t have had anywhere else in the world.
“I also volunteered with Curtin University Behavioural Ecology to band birds for wildlife studies at a local nature park and volunteered with another group to help with handling Australian native animals, called quendas,” she says.
“This gave me the opportunity to learn skills that will set me apart from most US students.”
Curtin, located in beautiful Perth, is Western Australia’s largest university and is globally renowned for its industry-connected courses, high-impact research and diversity.
Curtin Vice-Chancellor Professor Harlene Hayne, who hails from Colorado, says:
“As someone who has been fortunate enough to study and then work in countries across the world, I want Curtin students to have both a world class education and the time of their lives, no matter where they are from. At Curtin we believe a university isn’t just for educating the workforce of the future, it’s also about nurturing the next generation of global citizens and leaders.”
For sophomore Computer Science student James Eck, his time at Curtin has meant gaining insights into the biggest software company in the world.
“I was very lucky to attend a lecture where an engineer from Microsoft, who previously attended Curtin, talked to our class about what it takes to become successful in the industry,” he says.
Colourful campus life
Curtin offers students a vibrant campus experience, with more than 100 student clubs you can join, welcoming on-campus accommodation options and a wide range of health and wellbeing services.
GMU Global Affairs student Fiona Lighthiser says she was drawn to study in Perth for its unique character and Curtin’s clear focus on giving students the best experience possible.
“Curtin’s campus is beautiful and there are always student events and opportunities to get involved in,” she says.
“I lived on campus and had awesome flat mates: we would hang out a lot, barbecue, play pick-up football and visit the many, many beaches.
“I would recommend any US student head to Perth and Curtin because immersing oneself in a different culture, even if the language is the same, is a unique learning experience and offers a different perspective.”
Hear Elisabeth, James and Fiona share more about their study abroad experiences:
“My advice for other students looking to study abroad, especially in Australia, is that no matter how scary it may seem to travel that far from home, it will be an experience that you will never forget. It will allow you to experience so many amazing things and you will learn so much about yourself and the rest of the world.” – Elisabeth Hilton
Unique study abroad program
With Curtin’s study abroad program, you’ll get the chance to immerse yourself in ‘Aussie’ life, experience industry-led learning at a global university and make memories to last a lifetime.
Ready to explore life Down Under? Find out more about our exciting study abroad packages and how you can apply.
