The Exchange Student Experience at College
Four residents reflect on their exchange journey and the community at St Catherine’s College. From stepping outside their comfort zones to forming lasting friendships and discovering Perth, our exchange students offer a glimpse into College life.
“Volunteering at St Cat’s gave me a sense of purpose. This experience broadened my perspective and inspired me to travel.”
Finding Purpose in Community: Addi Arnold, Canada
Living at St Catherine’s College has been a life-changing adventure. The welcoming community made me feel at home. Formal dinners and field trips gave me the chance to make friends from all over the world.
The College introduced me to Teach Learn Grow, a rural non-profit initiative to improve education in underprivileged rural communities across Australia. I volunteered as a tutor, teaching mathematics and STEAM subjects.
After spending six months in Perth, I can confidently say it is one of the most enjoyable cities I have ever visited. I like the mix of a busy downtown area, Elizabeth Quay, the beaches and King’s Park.
Volunteering at St Cat’s gave me a sense of purpose. This experience broadened my perspective and inspired me to travel. I advise future exchange students to make the most of every opportunity. Step out of your comfort zone, connect with the community and try something new—it will shape you in ways you can’t imagine.
“ I am so glad I took a chance and jumped into this adventure.”
A Journey of Discovery: Braydon Marchand, Canada
Having never left North America, I wanted to study abroad and experience life in another part of the world. As an accounting major, UWA was the best option for my degree. St Catherine’s College felt like the right choice for me. The emphasis on community, private rooms and a packed schedule of academic and social events appealed to me.
Although the formal hall events and dining seemed daunting at first, they soon became some of my best experiences. I initially worried about making friends, but after the commencement dinner, I embraced every formal event—and the many hours spent dining and chatting with friends. I am so glad I took a chance and jumped into this adventure.
“The diversity of students creates a special environment where you can experience new perspectives.”
Embracing New Perspectives: Federici Leonardo, Italy
Experiencing life outside my home country has been personally and academically enriching. I chose Australia to expand my horizons. St Catherine’s has been an incredible experience. I have met students from more than 30 countries and heard different perspectives. Valedictory Dinner was my favourite event. I was given an honourable mention and celebrated with my new friends.
Living in Perth has had a positive impact on my lifestyle. I have learned to enjoy each moment and establish a healthy routine, something that was not a priority in my fast-paced hometown of Milan.
My advice for exchange students coming to St Cat’s is to attend as many events as possible and make friends early on. Make the most of every chance to connect and learn from others. The diversity of students creates a special environment where you can experience new perspectives.
Saying Yes to New Experiences: Tom Rands, Canada
“Small acts of courage lead to friendships and memories that last a lifetime.”
Whether you’re bushwalking at King’s Park, cycling along the Swan River or enjoying the buzz of Fremantle, there’s something for everyone here. Perth has natural beauty and a welcoming community. Life at St Catherine’s College adds to the experience.
If I can give one piece of advice to exchange students, it’s this—say yes. Say yes to an invite from someone new. Say yes to lunch with unfamiliar faces. Say yes to trying new things that push you just outside your comfort zone. These small acts of courage lead to friendships and memories that last a lifetime.
I’ve always been anxious, but saying “yes” during my time at St Cat’s changed me in ways I’ll never forget. It made me braver, more open and more confident—even now that I’m back in Toronto.
If you’re on the fence about studying abroad, go for it. And when you do, consider St Catherine’s College as your home away from home.
