Gina shares her experience studying at 2 of our wonderful campuses: Perth & Byron Bay. Find out more about her time at Lexis!
Every week at Lexis, we welcome new students from around the world – each with unique goals and dreams. What unites them is a shared passion for improving their English and creating unforgettable memories in Australia.
Today, we’re excited to share Gina’s journey with you – who’s had an amazing experience at Lexis! Over the past 7 months, Gina has studied English at two of our campuses, Perth and Byron Bay. Along the way, she has made incredible progress, built lifelong friendships, joined fun activities and excursions, and achieved so much during her time in Australia!
Tell us about yourself
Hi! I’m Gina, an 18-year-old from Barcelona, Spain. I decided to move to Australia for a gap year to improve my English, experience living on my own, and learn to be independent. It’s been an unforgettable adventure so far. I’ve had the chance to meet amazing people from all over the world, and this journey has helped me grow in so many ways.
I came here through the agency Go Study, and I studied at Lexis Perth for five months and then at Lexis Byron Bay for one and a half months.
Why did you choose Lexis Perth and Byron Bay?
I chose Perth because it’s a big city, but still quiet and peaceful. It has beautiful beaches, lots of sunshine, and a relaxed lifestyle that really appealed to me. Perth is known for its natural beauty and friendly atmosphere — the perfect place to focus on studying while enjoying the city vibe.
Later, I chose Byron Bay because it’s so different from the other campuses — it’s a small surf town with a special energy. I’d heard from other students that Byron is the best campus, and that everyone who goes there has an amazing time. I wasn’t disappointed. Byron Bay is surrounded by nature, has a vibrant community, and is known for its music, art, and surf culture.
What has been your most magical moment in Byron Bay and Perth so far?
In Perth, my most magical moment was a trip to Rottnest Island on my third day in Australia. The beaches were stunning, and I saw quokkas for the first time — it felt like a dream.
In Byron, I made a really special connection with an Aussie friend who lives in a caravan and works as a music producer. We spent an entire weekend together creating music in Mullumbimby. It was such a unique and inspiring experience.
I also had a magical moment in Brisbane. As a ballet dancer, I’ve always dreamed of watching the Swan Lake ballet live. When I visited the theatre to check the ticket prices, they were too expensive for me. But then, something incredible happened — a woman came up to me and offered me a free ticket because her friend couldn’t make it. I ended up watching the ballet from one of the front rows. I’ll never forget it.
What are your favourite things about Lexis?
Lexis is so well organized. The people are friendly, and the teachers are really committed and professional. I learned so much during my time there. In Perth, I did the CAE course for three months, and I continued studying in Byron Bay. The quality of education really helped me improve my skills and gain confidence in English.
How much has your English improved since you started studying in Australia?
A lot! Having a clear goal helped me stay motivated. I recently sat the Cambridge Advanced (CAE) exam in Brisbane, and I’m really proud of the progress I’ve made. I especially improved my writing skills in Byron Bay, thanks to my teacher Paul.
Tell us about your teachers and your classes.
In Perth, I had Andrew for the Cambridge course. He was a great teacher, and I had amazing classmates — mostly Swiss and Italian. In Byron Bay, Elizabeth and Paul were incredible. They were very professional and genuinely committed to helping me learn. I always felt supported in class.
How was your accommodation?
In Perth, I stayed with a lovely host family. My host sisters, Dionne, Jessica, and Madisson, were 16 and 18, and they all made me feel right at home. It was a true Australian family experience, and I loved every moment of it.
In Byron Bay, I stayed at the student accommodation “Life in Byron.” It was spectacular! It’s super close to the school, the beach, and the supermarket. The place felt like a real community, and the managers were really kind. I loved the convenience of walking everywhere.
What are your favourite things about each place?
In Perth, I absolutely loved the neighborhood of Scarborough. I used to go for runs along the coast, from one beach to another. The people there were incredibly friendly, and I always felt safe and welcomed.
In Byron Bay, the surfing was unbelievable! The natural surroundings were beautiful, and there were always fun things to do with friends. The lifestyle was healthy, vibrant, and full of good energy.
Did you work during your stay?
Yes! In Perth, I worked at a Mexican restaurant, which was a great opportunity to practice my English with locals. I also worked at a hotel doing room service and waitressing. It was a totally new experience for me, and I really enjoyed it. I didn’t work in Byron Bay because I wanted to focus on studying and enjoying the beach lifestyle.
Thank you, Gina, for sharing your Lexis experience with us!
Not studying with us yet, but would like to?
Lexis Byron delivers academic excellence in arguably Australia’s most desirable study location where you can combine your studies with the great outdoors. Studying at Lexis Byron is more than an experience, it’s a lifestyle! Lexis Byron offers an unrivalled afterschool activity calendar that includes surf lessons, cooking classes, artistic activities, afternoon escapes to surrounding hotspots and full-day weekend adventures. If you want more information on the courses that we offer, click here.
Learn English in Byron Bay. Lexis English students study General English, IELTS, FCE, CAE, and English plus Surfing in a friendly and professional school right in the heart of Byron Bay and only 15 minutes from the beach.
