University of Wisconsin–Madison

Australia: Chloe Hansen

Program: James Cook University, Fall

Chloe’s Major: Life Sciences Communication, Conservation Biology

An individual standing on a tall, rocky hill. Buildings and the ocean are visible far below.
My friends and I hiking Castle Hill in Townsville, near the JCU campus. It offers a beautiful view of the city, the ocean, and Magnetic Island.

What did you learn about yourself or the world because of your experience?

I went abroad without knowing anyone in my program, it was an amazing way to get myself out of my comfort zone and meet so many interesting people. I learned how to listen and ask better questions, and by doing so, I learned that everyone in this world has something unique about them and it is a privilege to get to know them.

Anyone studying at JCU must experience the amazing natural entities of Queensland. It is truly mind-blowing.

What is your most memorable experience from your program?

The most memorable part of my program was seeing the Great Barrier Reef. I took a charter to the outer reef from Port Douglas, and it blew my mind. It is the most beautiful thing I have ever seen, and it was an opportunity for me to apply the knowledge of my JCU coral reef ecology course. Moreover, it made me see how much of this planet we need to protect, because there is simply nothing like the outstanding amount of life in the Great Barrier Reef.

A creek lined on both sides by trees, with a tall hill in the background. Smoothy, rocky features in the creek create pools of water.
Crystal Creek is a local swimming hole with natural waterslides, eucalypt forest, and no crocs! My friends and I visited here often on the weekends to get a break from school and enjoy the cool waters in the tropical heat.

What challenges or barriers did you face as you prepared to go abroad and/or during your time abroad? How did you work through them?

It can be hard to maintain long distance relationships with family and friends in America. I found new sources of meaning in new friends and connecting with the beautiful landscape of Queensland. I learned about local animals, hiked with my friends, and returned to some old passions like art and reading, which helped me navigate the separation with my support network in Wisconsin.

What is your advice for someone considering your program?

Anyone studying at JCU must experience the amazing natural entities of Queensland. It is truly mind-blowing. You can visit Magnetic Island and see wild corals, koalas, and eucalypt forest while staying on budget using buses and hostels. You can swim in the local Crystal Creek swimming holes and take a bus to Cairns to explore the city, rainforest, and Great Barrier Reef. Queensland is a place for adventure, so take advantage of it.

CRICOS Provider: 00117J