Creating Memories in the Tropics: Life Beyond the Books
Goabaone from Botswana, is studying Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery at James Cook University in Townsville and is one of the 2025 Study Townsville Student Ambassadors.
When I first arrived in Townsville, I thought it would simply be a place to study and focus on my degree. What I discovered was so much more — a true paradise away from home. Between the golden sunsets at The Strand, adventures on Magnetic Island, and the friendships I have built, Townsville has become more than just a study destination. It’s where I have created memories I’ll carry for life, and where I have truly found a second home.
I chose to study medicine at JCU because of their unique focus on rural and remote health, which really resonates with me. I have always been passionate about contributing my skills to underserved communities, and Townsville was the perfect place to pursue that dream. From the very beginning, I have had the chance to learn in supportive classrooms, gain hands-on experience in clinical settings, and engage with the rich cultures of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
Being a Study Townsville Student Ambassador has opened even more doors. One highlight was attending the Study Queensland Innovation Challenge in Townsville, where I worked with North and West Remote Health (NWRH). It was an incredible opportunity to collaborate, develop problem-solving and communication skills, and explore real solutions to challenges in rural healthcare. Experiences like this go far beyond the classroom and enrich both my career and personal growth.
What I love most about Townsville is the balance between study and lifestyle. There’s always something to do in my free time — and these experiences are about more than just fun. They are about building friendships and finding belonging. Volunteering at Culture Day 2024, one of the city’s biggest multicultural events, was unforgettable. I met people from over 15 different countries and learned about their dances, food, and traditions. Townsville is so welcoming and diverse that you’ll never feel alone — there’s truly a place for everyone. That sense of community helped me overcome homesickness and feel right at home here.
When I’m not in the lecture theatre, you’ll probably find me out exploring — hiking up Castle Hill, spotting koalas on Magnetic Island, joining a whale-watching tour, or even visiting the Texas Longhorns in Charters Towers. Volunteering, exploring, and just soaking up the beauty of this city has given me a balanced lifestyle and helped ease the pressures of university. I’m especially grateful to Study Townsville for supporting international students like me with opportunities to explore and make the most of our time here.
Honestly, I feel like I’m living the dream — studying in a tropical paradise that I now call home.
My advice to future students, especially those coming from overseas: make the most of Townsville! Put yourself out there, embrace the opportunities, and don’t be afraid to connect with people. There’s so much support from the university and the wider community, and endless chances to explore, make friends, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Photo credit: Goabaone Rabosutlha
October 2025
