From a young age, I was profoundly interested in travelling and experiencing other cultures. As a young adult, I travelled to Poland, Fiji, Switzerland (although a snowstorm trapped me in the airport), Malaysia, the United States, and the Netherlands. Seeing systems and cultures worldwide deepened my love for Australia and its place in world affairs. As this appreciation for Australia grew, so did my interest in international relations and how Australia can pursue its strategic interests. This interest led me to enrol in Griffith Uni's Bachelor of Government and International Relations. I am currently in my second year and have received an award for academic excellence award in my first year of study.While studying, I have been working in the mental health sector, honing my communication, mediation, and advocacy skills through my work with high-risk cohorts with complex mental and physical health comorbidities. For instance, working in a suicide prevention service (Safe Space Blacktown), I was responsible for assessing individuals with significant suicidal ideation and keeping staff and the participant safe while managing risks such as potential violence or escalation. Working in this sector has given me an education in how government policy and decision-making can have a direct impact on the lives of individual Australians.I plan on taking the skills I have developed in my degree and working life to a career with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, working as a diplomat to pursue Australia's interests and improve Australia's position in the international system.