Nikol is a student from the Czech Republic who dreams of a career in Marine Biology. She is currently pursuing her passion studying a Bachelor of Science (Honours), majoring in Marine Biology at the Gold Coast campus.
Interested in sharing your story? DM us on Instagram @griffithinternational.
Hi Nikol!
What made you want to study abroad?
Since I can remember I knew that I wanted to study Marine Biology. I knew I would have to go and study abroad, because you can’t really study Marine Biology when you live in a landlocked country! When I got the opportunity to come to Australia to study at Griffith I didn’t hesitate.
Why did you choose Griffith University?
My Mom actually visited Griffith when she was travelling in Australia. She saw that Griffith offered a Marine Biology program, and that was pretty much all I needed to know!
What do you love most about your life in Queensland?
Everything. The weather, the people, but most importantly being able to live next to ocean. The fact that I can be on the beach within 10 minutes is really the main reason why I love my life in Queensland. A nice bonus: the Gold Coast has this ‘always on holidays’ vibe.
What was your biggest fear about starting your student journey?
I feared that I’ll disappoint my family, especially my Mom who already did so much for me. Without her I wouldn’t be able to study in Australia.
‘The fact that I can be on the beach within 10 minutes is really the main reason why I love my life in Queensland.’
How did you overcome your fear?
Well, after I failed some courses in my first year, I was devastated, but I put all my energy into study. It was easy to do that as it was in the beginning of the COVID-19 restrictions, so I pretty much spent the whole lockdown behind a laptop and tried to focus on study. And it all paid off – I even got some Distinction grades after that, even from a course I failed!
What is the best advice you’ve ever been given?
It was probably from my Mom, who told me that with the right mindset I can achieve what I want. It’s pretty much about if you believe in something hard enough, it will eventually become a reality.
Who in your life has had the most influence on you?
There is a motivational speaker named Nick Vujicic, who was born without limbs. Pretty much every time I feel down or I’m going through something, I love to listen his stories or read his book. Even though he was born with such a huge disadvantage, he has done so much in his life. It always gives me the strength to keep going, to follow my dreams and that I can do anything if I give it everything. Nick is also a Griffith University alumnus too!
What has been a key moment in your life as an international student?
It’s hard to pick one moment. The whole of 2020 and 2021 was full of great moments, starting with the opportunity to be featured in a Griffith International photoshoot and videoshoot, as well as becoming a Griffith Mate, becoming a Griffith University Student Ambassador and the Mayor’s Student Ambassador, and so many more. But the first key moment was when I went on my first field trip at uni. It was for a specific course and we were collecting samples. That moment was when I knew that I am doing something that I love and that I cannot wait to have a work-life like that after graduation.
‘I really love the feeling that I am part of something bigger that will have huge impact on saving our oceans and environment in the future.’
Do you do any volunteer or extra-curricular activities?
I do a lot of volunteering, but mainly for Humpback and High Rises, Australian Marine Conservation Society, Australian Rivers Institute. I honestly enjoy every part of it, but mainly I really love the feeling that I am part of something bigger that will have huge impact on saving our oceans and environment in the future.
Are you a member of any uni clubs?
I was actually a Griffith cheerleader with Griffith Cheer and Dance Club for two seasons (2019 and 2020). Definitely the most fun experience was our competitions in 2019, as it was in person and we won a second place in Uni Nationals.
Where can we find you at the weekend?
Right now, usually at work at my part-time job, but when I have a free weekend I usually go to beach!
What are your dreams after graduating?
I want to continue my studies further and hopefully complete my PhD, and then my dream is to work in marine research, studying either Orcas or sharks.
What is your favorite quote?
‘I don’t need easy, just possible’ – Bethany Hamilton
Hear more from Nikol:
LinkedIn – linkedin.com/in/nikol-slynkova-1016551aa/
Instagram – @fromtwoworlds
Student Blog – My year as a Mayor’s Student Ambassador
HUMANS OF GRIFFITH INTERNATIONAL
At Griffith University, we celebrate diversity and difference. Our community is made up of students from around the globe, all with a unique story to tell.
In this Humans of Griffith series, a selection of our international students have chosen to share their experiences, unedited in their own words – from the challenges of studying abroad, to building community and independence, and their dreams after graduation and beyond.
No matter who you are, or where you are in the world, whatever your study journey, Griffith University is with you all the way. Find out more at griffith.edu.au/international.
Interested in sharing your story? DM us on Instagram @griffithinternational.
View more Humans of Griffith student stories here.
