When Aavash left Kathmandu, Nepal for Australia, he wasn’t just chasing a degree—he was chasing a feeling of home. In this conversation, he shares how Toowoomba’s crisp winters and breezy summers drew him to the University of Southern Queensland, and how a love of coding and community is shaping his future.

Highlights from our chat:

• Why USQ stood out – From its top-400 world ranking to Australian Computer Society accreditation, Aavash explains the practical reasons behind his choice.

• From web to software development – His plan to start in web development before moving into bigger software projects.

• Residential college life – How living on campus has built lifelong friendships and kept homesickness at bay.

• Sport and social connections – Football clubs, gym sessions and endless campus events that make student life vibrant.

• Weather that feels like home – Cool winters, warm summers and that famous Toowoomba breeze.

  
  

Small class sizes, hybrid learning options and supportive lecturers round out the experience, giving Aavash the flexibility to work and study while staying connected to family back in Nepal.

Global Horizons is a production of The Global Society, Australia’s Learning Abroad support company. Our editor is Len Zamora and our distribution specialist is Angelo Ablao. Rob Malicki is the executive editor and host.

The podcast wouldn’t be possible without The Koala News, Australia’s international education news website. This episode is supported by Choosing Your Uni, Australia's unique, AI-powered platform that helps domestic and international students to find the right institution for them, and that helps Australian institutions to access new markets.

For guest suggestions and feedback, email [email protected].