Name: Ella Toomey
Degree: Bachelor of Design (Visual Communication) and Business (Marketing)
Year: 3rd Year
Roles: New Colombo Plan Scholar at the University of the South Pacific in Fiji
What’s it like being a New Colombo Plan Scholar?
I love it. Fijians are lovely, and the friendly vibe over here at the University of the South Pacific is something else. The sharing of culture is incredible. The scholarship cohort here in Fiji has been great – we’ve done loads of trips and had adventures together. Though it’s a bit of a struggle without 24/7 Maccas across the road. I definitely miss that.
Best thing about being a Scholar?
The community. In my third week here, I gave myself a second-degree burn. I was in hospital for two weeks and had to have an operation. But my fellow Scholars were always in and out of the hospital. One had only gotten here a few days prior and he messaged me to say: “We’re going to come and see you. Do you want snacks? Do you want vibes? What’s the go?” And now he’s one of my best friends. It’s so nice when people turn up for each other here, as well as at Griffith.
And the best thing about your course/degree?
The practicality. Whether I’m designing or diving into business subjects, everything’s about applying what we’re learning. Plus, Griffith’s support is top-notch, from resources to real-world projects.
What’s taken you out of your comfort zone?
I’m learning Fijian! As a designer, I’m very aware that I’ll be working with communities who have English as a second language. I want to learn how to develop good connections with them, so I can design with language in mind, rather than it being an afterthought.
What will you miss most about Fiji?
Being able to chill out and do things as a group together on weekends. Though I won’t miss the sharks. Some of the guys went for a dive the other day and took these videos where the sharks were this close to their faces. You could not pay me enough. Not happening. I'll be sticking to Sea World Gold Coast.
Spill the tea… what’s everyone talking about this trimester?
Graduation! I’ve got a bit of FOMO at the moment, because I won’t be there when my friends graduate. But it’s fun to see them head toward that big milestone. I also overheard a lot of buzz about the new City Campus in the Treasury Building opening soon, especially from design students like me. Everyone’s excited about the new spaces.
What’s your number one takeaway from your scholarship?
It hasn’t been easy at times – such as my hospital stay. But it’s built my resilience and adaptability. If I can move to another country and meet new people, then I can walk into a room and meet new people.
Ella is one of 15 Griffith students awarded the Australian Government’s New Colombo Plan Scholarship for 2025 – the highest number from Griffith ever in a single year. Find out more about her fellow Scholars.
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