Life in Australia is not very different from that in the US; people act very similarly. So I didn’t have any culture shocks that rattled me. Life here is very relaxed and laid back, so shops and restaurants close much earlier than I’m used to. But Brisbane is beautiful, and so is the whole of Australia. No disrespect to College Station, but Brisbane is green and rich with nature. There are many botanical gardens, and the city lies on the banks of a river. I have actually travelled around Australia quite a bit now, but I will save those stories for the final post. Overall, my first impressions of Brisbane were excellent!
One thing I’ve come to appreciate deeply is the emphasis on balance in Australian life. There’s a noticeable prioritization of well-being, leisure, and time spent outdoors. Whether it’s seeing families picnicking in the park, joggers along the river, or students lounging on the grass between classes, there’s a collective understanding that life isn’t just about work—it’s about enjoying the moment. This mindset has encouraged me to slow down and be more intentional with how I spend my time. It’s a refreshing contrast to the hustle culture I’m used to, and it’s something I hope to carry with me long after I leave.
Academically, the structure and expectations at QUT have pushed me to become more self-directed. With so much content available online and tutorials designed for hands-on engagement, I’ve had to take more responsibility for my learning. It’s been empowering to manage my own schedule and dive deeper into topics that interest me. The collaborative nature of tutorials also means I’ve had more opportunities to engage with classmates, share ideas, and learn from different perspectives. It’s a different rhythm than what I’m used to, but one that’s helped me grow both intellectually and personally.
