From studying surfing in Vanuatu to advanced engineering in Hong Kong, a group of University of the Sunshine Coast high achievers is about to add an immersive global dimension to their studies and future careers.
The four students will live, study and intern in the Indo-Pacific this year after being named New Colombo Plan Scholars for 2025 by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
This equals the highest number of successful UniSC scholars in a single round of the highly competitive New Colombo Plan Scholarship, which aims to build knowledge and skills within the region and deepen Australia’s ties with its neighbours.
UniSC Moreton Bay Bachelor of Nutrition student Zhi Jin Lin (pictured), whose interest is gastrointestinal health, will study at the National Taiwan Normal University, undertake a mentorship at Taipei Medical University, and intern at the ASEAN Microbiome Nutrition Centre in Singapore.
“My program will focus on nutrition and gut microbiome, as I have always been fascinated by the connection between what we eat, our microbiome and disease prevention,” Jin said.
“My goal is to explore how prebiotic and probiotic-rich foods can improve gut health and advance preventive health, particularly how our dietary practices can shape long-term health in vulnerable communities.
“I believe this scholarship will better position me to educate communities and contribute to preventive strategies rooted in our dietary practices and lifestyle changes.”
It is all about Vanuatu’s surf, reefs and outdoor experiences for UniSC Moreton Bay Bachelor of Recreation and Outdoor Environmental Studies student Lachlan Southern, who will study at the University of the South Pacific.
With the nation becoming a sought-after destination for surfers, he will intern at the Vanuatu Surfing Association and one of its leading outdoor recreation businesses, Yumi Tours and Transfers.
“Outdoor recreation in Vanuatu is still in its infancy, so I would like to experience how outdoor education programs can be developed and implemented,” Lachlan said.
“I aim to learn from local practices and collaborate with communities to develop sustainable and culturally appropriate outdoor recreation opportunities that promote education, wellbeing, and environmental stewardship.
“Studying abroad will give me the chance to step out of my comfort zone, experience new cultures, and develop valuable skills that will benefit my personal and professional growth.
“It will also provide me with fresh perspectives on outdoor education, enrich my expertise and enhance my future career.”
Sunshine Coast Bachelor of Animal Ecology student Chloe Adams said she could not think of a program in better alignment with her tertiary education and post-graduate career aims.
Her NCP experience will include studying at the University of Malaysia, an internship at the Mandai Wildlife Park in Singapore and completing additional language studies in Mandarin.
“My focus is studying tropical rainforest ecology, with my scholarship components complementing each other to develop a holistic learning of global environmental issues, and the impacts they have on animals, communities and businesses,” she said.
“I hope to strengthen connections between my host countries and Australia to further enhance cross-cultural communication in the ecological research and conservation space.
“Personally, this program will help me to further expand my worldview and build a strong, multicultural network whilst making incredible memories.”
Sunshine Coast Mechanical Engineering student Rowan McDowall said the opportunity to intern in Hong Kong and study at its national university would enhance his technical expertise and broaden his global perspective.
“My background as a mechanic has instilled a strong foundation in practical problem solving and a passion for continuous learning, and this scholarship will allow me to engage with the unique cultures and advanced engineering practices of the Indo-Pacific region,” he said.
“I aim to apply the skills I've learned and develop international relationships that will benefit both my local community and the broader region.
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