It has taken me a while to put into words the experiences I have had through the opportunities that the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and Griffith University have given me from 2019 to today, so I’ll start from the beginning.
My name is Rosie, I am 31 years of age, hailing from the small Pacific Island of Kiribati. I am a blessed Mom with two beautiful darlings waiting for my return, if ever Kiribati borders open soon.
I am currently doing a four year dual degree of Bachelor of International Tourism and Hospitality Management & Bachelor of Business Management – I am now in my third year.
Like everyone else nearing completion of their academic journey in university, I am looking forward to the day I will physically hold the proof of the sacrifices and hard work I have dedicated myself to in the past few years – but that will hopefully be another story in 2022 so stay tuned…
Every year DFAT offers Australia Awards Scholarship opportunities to neighbouring Pacific Islands. In 2018, after numerous screening measures and tests, I was fortunate enough to be selected as a recipient of a scholarship award to study here in Australia. The opportunity paved my academic journey here at the Griffith University Nathan Campus.
I remember my very first day here – what a mixed feeling I had – I was excited but nervous!