I started my journey in Australia in 2016 as part of the International Student Program of Education Queensland. I came straight from a small school in the highlands of Papua New Guinea to Cairns with doubts as to whether I would fit in or not.
I remember my first day at school at Redlynch State College in Year 9. I walked into the office and was greeted by Mrs Glover, Mrs Schulte and Mr Smith. I was overwhelmed with the hurricane of emotions that hit me however I was soon introduced to a girl who was to be my buddy for the first two weeks. This girl was Jess and we have grown to be the closest of friends.
The culture shock eventually faded, and I began to see the beauty in the environment here at Redlynch. Most of what I observed stemmed from the teachers (AKA The unsung heroes of Redlynch State College) who are the real reasons behind our success. Upon arrival I was immediately met with lovely teachers who went out of their way to make my transition smooth.
I have studied a range of subjects, namely: Mathematics, English, Science, Health and Physical Education, Visual Art, Biology, Multimedia, Legal Studies and Japanese in my four years at Redlynch. I have participated in field trips to survey mangroves, interschool sporting, workshops with local artists, school camps and even National mooting competitions held at Bond University.
One major highlight of my schooling at Redlynch State College was the 2018 Japan Trip. I was fortunate enough to take this once in a lifetime trip with my friends and fellow peers. We immersed ourselves in ancient Japanese traditions, household etiquette and the amazing food culture. We went to attractions such as Universal Studios, Tokyo dome, sumo wrestling tournament and Museums. The Nagareyama Otakanomori High School hosted us for a day where we got to experience a day in their school life. I highly recommend this trip to anyone who has a love of languages and is open to experiencing a different way of life.
Apart from school, I have really enjoyed living in Cairns. I have experienced day trips to the tablelands, snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef, Skyrail, Green and Fitzroy Island and even abseiling! It has been very enjoyable.
Despite the obvious difference in background and race, I was always treated as any other student. I was the first international student school captain at Redlynch State College and I want to thank all my teachers and peers who have helped along the way.
Now that I have completed my high school studies, I will be progressing onto University. I have chosen to study a dual degree in Arts and Law at the James Cook University in Cairns. It has been such a blessing to study in Australia!