 My name is Rowan Gonzalez and I'm currently from Macquarie University studying a Bachelor of Law and Commerce. My program in Thailand includes studying a semester at Tamasat University, completing language training at Nisa Language School, and an internship with Good Return, which is an organization that provides responsible and inclusive finance across the Asia-Pacific region, particularly for women and marginalized communities. I've always wanted to live abroad and broaden my perspective of the world, but when the email came in to apply for the New Colombo Plan, I found that this would have been the perfect opportunity to reach this goal while advancing my career opportunities without the financial stress of burden. Thailand is rich in culture with pockets of adventure in each corner, and because English is not widely spoken, it was a great opportunity for me to practice my language skills and really push myself outside my comfort zone, and so far it's been really great. The most rewarding part of my New Colombo Plan experience has been meeting and connecting with people from all different walks of life. Combining that experience with being able to live independently really pushes you to reconsider what's normal and important. It's also been really rewarding being able to learn the local language. I've gone from what feels like playing charades at the local grocery store to being able to have genuine connections, which is something that I really enjoyed. One of my most valuable and interesting experiences in Thailand was actually working on a TEDx talk with the TEDx UTCC team. This was a really great experience in being able to share the work I've done in Australia with the Thai community, but also working with a local curating team and understanding different working styles and forming memories and connections that I'll keep close to my heart even after my MCP program ends. Thailand is full of activities and adventures, so each week I like trying new activities, whether it be going on a hike or trying wakeboarding. But one of my favorite things is actually trying out the new recipes that my local Thai language school gives me. It's so fun being able to try those new things. And one of my favorite places is going to night food markets and just being involved in the atmosphere of live music and lots of different foods and sights to see. The opportunity to navigate and live in a new country is invaluable and you'll also be able to meet so many other scholars who are passionate about different fields that will broaden your perspective of the world. I know the application process may seem daunting, but just take it one step at a time and you never know how you'll grow through the experience. When I come back to Australia, I'll be returning with a newfound confidence in my ability to navigate challenges and communicate effectively. I'm also bringing back my knowledge of working in different cultures and across industries such as impact investing, which I believe is crucial in today's world. After finishing the MCP program, I plan to continue engaging in the Asia-Pacific region, particularly in the impact investing and venture capital space. I think there's still so much to learn and get involved in and I'd love to keep learning and sharing my knowledge of this space.