My name is Chani Brammer, and I had the incredible opportunity to study abroad in Gold Coast, Australia, at Griffith University from March to mid June of 2025. This experience was deeply aligned with my Global Leadership Initiative (GLI) theme of Public and Global Health, and it was an invaluable part of my academic journey.

While in Australia, I focused on my theme by taking courses such as Human Services Structures, American Politics and Government, and Abnormal Psychology. These classes not only helped me expand my knowledge in areas directly related to my future career in Speech-Language Pathology, but they also gave me a broader understanding of how different countries approach public health and governance. I was particularly interested in how Australians view U.S. politics and health systems, offering me a unique opportunity to compare and contrast the two countries’ structures and policies. Through these experiences, I deepened my understanding of how political decisions impact public health, and I’m excited to integrate these insights into my upcoming GLI Capstone project this fall.

One of the most meaningful aspects of my study abroad experience was the chance to engage with people from all over the world. I made lifelong friends from Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and South Africa, and our diverse backgrounds made our discussions and collaborations that much richer. We spent time exploring Gold Coast, taking weekend trips to nearby places like Brisbane, Byron Bay, and the Sunshine Coast! It was during these times we shared what our lives were like wherever we had come from and were able to truly bond! These friendships provided a supportive and enriching environment, making my time in Australia unforgettable. At the end of the trimester, my family was fortunate enough to visit me and we had a week long trip in Sydney where we go to see the Opera House, Bondi Beach, and try many different cuisines!

Living in Australia also gave me a chance to reflect on my own culture and how it shapes my perspectives, particularly in healthcare. The Australian healthcare system, the way they approach governance, and the societal values they hold have influenced my understanding of global health challenges and solutions. It reinforced the importance of cultural sensitivity, something I will carry with me in my future career as a Speech-Language Pathologist.

This study abroad experience has not only enriched my academic pursuits but also developed my leadership skills. Navigating life in a new country, interacting with people from diverse cultures, and discussing complex global issues in classes has made me a more confident and culturally aware leader. I’m excited to bring these new perspectives and leadership skills to my future work in public health and in my GLI Capstone project.

Looking back, I’m incredibly grateful for this once in a lifetime opportunity. It has expanded my global perspective, connected me with wonderful people from all over the world, and deepened my passion for making a difference in public and global health. I can’t wait to apply what I’ve learned to my future career and to continue working toward a more inclusive and effective approach to health and wellbeing worldwide. Thank you GLI for making my time abroad possible! This has been a life-changing experience and by far my favorite college memory!