Chasing challenges across the globe

Every ACU student has the chance to study overseas. It is an opportunity to see the world, challenge yourself, make new friends and gain independence. Rozlyn Kelly has broadened her horizons every chance she gets.

Even her path to ACU took a few unexpected turns before she took on a Bachelor of Theology/Bachelor of Global Studies.

“When I finished school, I studied social work briefly but realised that was not what I wanted. I spent most of my twenties working or volunteering with Catholic organisations and along the way did a few theology units. I found it interesting and when I was 28, decided to go back to university full-time,” Rozlyn said.

“I really wanted to study theology because I am a Catholic and have a deep desire to understand what Catholics believe and why. From a practical perspective pairing it with global studies adds an extra chance for potential future study or employment.

“I took a few years away from study after my undergraduate degrees, where I spent time working, before enrolling in the theology honours program part-time. My honours thesis centres on what it means to be created in the image and likeness of God for people with an experience of homosexuality. This topic is important to me as I want the Catholic Church to be a place of greater inclusion.”

Have faith, will travel

At ACU, there are plenty of ways to gain international experience – study tours, internships, semester or short-term exchanges, community engagement and even our unique international Core Curriculum program. Rozlyn’s taken full advantage, having done just about all of them.

She began her global journey in 2018, attending the ASEACCU Conference in Hiroshima, Japan. 

"There are not words to describe the heartbreak and devastation I felt being in that place," she said, reflecting on visiting the Peace Memorial Park. "This experience has changed my perspective on life and the lens through which I view many things." 

Hearing personal accounts from students across Asia – like one about surviving a terrorist attack – deeply challenged and reshaped her worldview.

Rozlyn at the Vatican Gardens and Palazzo della Ragione.

In 2019, she embarked on a study abroad semester at Gannon University in the US, where she immersed herself in student life, made lifelong friends, and explored American culture and history. 

"I studied US history in the US, visited political and historical sites, and had time for personal reflection and growth," she said. "But most of all, the people I met have changed my life."

Roaming in Rome

Now, Rozlyn is undertaking an internship in Rome with the Dicastery for Laity, Family, and Life, working behind the scenes on major international events like World Youth Day. 

"I wasn’t sure what to expect, but it’s been incredible to help with real projects and get insight into high-level planning. It really is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity," Rozlyn said.

"I feel spoiled. The campus, located near Via Aurelia Antica, offers views of a Trajan aqueduct and is surrounded by ancient history. 

"I love learning about history, and to be in Rome surrounded by so much of it – churches, buildings, parks, museums and streets – is incredible. I’m still in awe every day." 

However, adjusting to a new country and language hasn’t been without challenges. The biggest hurdle has been the language barrier. She speaks enough Italian to travel, but communicating in her role at the Dicastery can be tough. 

"Interning where Italian is the primary language has been an exciting challenge. At work, many staff want to practice their English, so I often end up speaking English instead of using my Italian skills. Outside of work, though, it’s a challenge to get by without a strong command of the language."

Another challenge has been the distance from family and friends. 

"Being away from home is hard but, thankfully, the internet makes it easier to stay connected,” she said.

"Not being able to speak Italian fluently, and feeling homesick at times, was tough. But understanding that these stages exist helped me realise that things would improve. I’m more comfortable living here now and love the work I’m doing.”

Enjoying the Ponte di Castelvecchio and Trevi Fountain

A particularly unforgettable moment for Rozlyn was visiting the Colosseum – a place she had always dreamed of seeing. 

"Standing in the Colosseum was surreal. I grew up loving history, and it’s a place I’ve seen in so many resources and movies. To be there in person was incredible,” Rozlyn said.

“Other unforgettable experiences include attending a Papal Audience and walking through the Holy Door at St. Peter’s Basilica during the Jubilee Year.

“Perhaps the most defining moment of all, though, was when I realised I was thinking in Italian without translating from English. It was a strange but significant moment. I realised how far I’ve come with my language skills, and it gave me a sense of accomplishment.”

Professional and personal growth

One of the greatest benefits of this internship for Rozlyn has been learning to communicate with people from diverse cultures. In meetings, there could be six people from five different countries. 

"It’s a skill to communicate effectively and work collaboratively when everyone’s native language is different," she said. 

"But it’s also a chance to learn about each other’s cultures.”

Rozlyn's experience studying at ACU has also been transformative. 

"I’ve learned to value the individual person and their experience. I’ve learned to ask questions and apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills from my theology studies to other areas of my life," she said.

“A theology degree doesn’t guarantee a job, but it has helped me understand who I am, what I believe and opened many doors for me. Right now, I'm not sure of the next steps on my career path, but I know I have the skills and attributes to be effective whatever I do.

“My faith drives my passion to make a difference in the world. The experiences I’ve had at ACU have helped me grow as a person and as a contributor to my communities in a positive and enthusiastic way."

And her advice to current and future students?

"Your university experience is what you make it. ACU has so many opportunities. Some will be right for you, others won’t, but if you don’t put yourself out there – whether it’s saying 'hi' to someone new, applying for an internship, or asking that tough question in class – you might miss out on growth. Doing your best is more important than doing it perfectly. No one remembers your GPA. What matters is how you learn and who you become along the way."

Want experiences like Rozlyn? Study at ACU.