Fresh from Texas, first-year Sydney Milne explores her experience with studying and service at King's, and its differences from her Trump-led hometown.

Sydney's love for Australia stems from the culture and the way everyone is supportive of each other, 'no matter what'. While her family was supportive of her move, Sydney explained the King's community made the transition much easier, quickly finding her people, with her flat being like a family.

Sydney explains the importance of King's opportunities to serve at college. She explains how a childhood in Singapore, where cultural diversity is celebrated, contrasted with a move to the US, where these groups were marginalised, sparked her value for fairness and inspired her to give back.

Recently, she assisted in organising She Week, which focused on women's mental health. This week had King's girls decorating cookies, playing trivia and competing in Just Dance. Sydney explains, “it was great to see all these girls come together” and boost morale. 

Her value of fairness also inspired her to study international relations. Despite having a 'classic high school experience', Sydney could see how the American education system was biased regarding politics, which was a large contributor to her decision to study at UQ.

Her desire for an 'outside perspective' on American politics means she can understand how the Trump Administration is interacting with other countries, and how the recent introduction of tariffs impact trade. She explains how, despite potential long-term benefits, the present tariffs hurt the American people as prices rise, a contemporary issue for Australia also.

Sydney also loves singing, participating in choralefest and looking to join a local choir. Despite the initial nerves of leaving home, Sydney articulates how moving to King's was one of the best things she has decided to do and that those considering it should take the leap! 

Watch the full interview here.