Dan Brody

Brown University , Providence , Rhode Island

Politics major

I wanted to go somewhere that was English speaking and tropical – and JCU met both of these criteria.  The weather here is amazing, I’m more tanned than I’ve ever been.  I’m taking subjects in politics, journalism and cinema which are good.  The people are really relaxed, very funny and less concerned with what others think of them then at home.

During the mid semester break I went to Surfers Paradise on the Gold Coast, Brisbane and Byron Bay .  Over Easter I’m going to be snorkelling on the reef which should be great.

I found out about JCU through the web page and by talking to Butler college

Patrick Fallon

Joe Gibson

Emory University  - Atlanta , Georgia   (originally from San Francisco )

Politics major

I knew I wanted to go to Australia , it’s a good location and the weather is fantastic.  The best thing has been everyone I’ve met, they remind me of people at home, very welcoming. They give you a chance and they like to go out and have fun.

I’m taking courses in politics, cinema, history and music.

Matthew Hurley

Trinity College , Connecticut

Political Science major

I found out about JCU through the web site and came here with two friends from college.  Some other friends came here last year so I new a bit about it.

The classes here are a lot smaller and more hands on then at home.  The people are very friendly and outgoing and like to party.  I love the weather and the beaches and best of all I am away from the snow.

In the mid-semester break I got the opportunity to go to Sydney and climb the harbour bridge and also went to New Zealand

Aaron Luber

Emory University - Atlanta , Georgia

Film Studies Major

The best thing about studying here is the friends I’ve made and how cool they are.  St Marks [residential hall] is great and reminds me of living in Fraternity at my home university.  The Great Barrier Reef is also a big draw card.

I’m taking classes in music, zoology, Indigenous studies and film studies.  The classes are very hands-on and interesting.  I like it a lot.

Katie Miron

Minnesota State University (Mankato Campus)

Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood)

I came to Australia because I had always loved the country and I wanted to experience what it was like here.  I am amazed by how friendly everyone has been, they really made me feel at home.  I have had a wonderful experience, not only in class but also in my experience in Australian schools.  I have learned so many new things and ideas and the ED2491 Managing Teaching and Learning class really pushed me into believing in myself as a teacher.  Thank You.

Sasha Monteil

Tim Mullaney

Trinity College , Connecticut (originally from Boston )

Political Science major

I’m enjoying the weather and the company.  I like the teachers a lot and the flexibility.  I’ve been able to travel as well as study which has been fantastic.  I’ve been to Sydney and New Zealand and I’m going to the reef next month.  I’m doing my diving certification next week so that I can dive on the reef.

I’m taking classes with a focus on Australian history and culture.  I’d highly recommend it.

Claire Salier-Hellendag

Mt Holyoke College, Texas

Biology Major

For my study abroad term I wanted to go somewhere where they speak English and had a good biology program which JCU has.  I was also looking for a smaller university because my home uni has only 2000 students.

I’m taking courses in marine biology, aboriginal studies, cinema and Bach to Beatles which are really good.

I love the weather.  No Snow.  I’m very happy that I studied abroad.

Marisa Scime

Fordham University , New York City

Business Administration Major

I was attracted to JCU because it was in a small town compared to Manhattan Island where I go to University.  I wanted to be surrounded by the natural environment and of the universities I looked at JCU was the most appealing.

JCU has exceeded my expectations, the people are great and the Professors are even more knowledgeable then at my home uni.   I am taking courses in areas I couldn’t take at home like photography, zoology, cinema and Indigenous studies.  I’d like to extend my stay but I don’t think it will be possible.

Andy Warneck

Denise Carter

Home Country – Ireland

Bachelor of Arts - majoring in English Literature - Cairns Campus

The best thing about studying at JCU is the small classes and the friendliness of the lecturers.  I always imagined university as an intimidating place and I’m sure in other universities that may very well be the case.  But at JCU after just half a semester the lecturers know you by name and they are easy to approach with questions or problems.

I haven’t studied in university in my own country so I can’t make a direct comparison. However I’d imagine that at the main universities in Dublin the lecturers wouldn’t be aware of your existence even.

I’m planning on changing to a joint degree in Arts and Journalism which is something I wouldn’t have the option of doing at home.  I believe that this type of degree opens up lots of avenues for me, in writing literature, journalism, public relations, even playwriting.  I haven’t made any definite decisions other than to keep my options open.

Nadia Journes

Home Country - Norway

Bachelor of Journalism , Townsville Campus

I found about JCU through a friend who was studying in Sydney , I looked it up on the web and decided it was the right choice.  The Great Barrier Reef was also a draw card because I love diving.

I like JCU because it is the perfect size for a university – not too big and not too small.  You know a lot of people and you’re likely to remember them.

Everything is so easy here, when you need help you can get it very easily

Henrik Martinsen

Home Country - Norway

Bachelor of Psychology, Townsville Campus

I found out about JCU through a Norwegian company called IEC (International Education Centre). On their website they had an introduction about JCU, and things kind of moved on from there.

I will honestly admit that once I saw the pictures of the strand, I was sold.   I wanted to travel, and going to Australia is something I have always wanted.

I would say that the best thing about JCU is the people. Both the people who work here, and especially the people who I live with at college. 

I have had many highlights, mostly on the social front. Tons of new friends is probably one of the biggest ones.  Of course the girls here are very pretty as well - so that takes up some time!   

I think that JCU does a brilliant job with the international students. Luckily I have not had any problems, but I am sure that if did I would get professional help from the staff here.