When I first arrived in Toowoomba, I never imagined how many doors this city would open for me both academically and personally. My name is Siri, and I am originally from Thailand. After completing my Bachelor’s degree in Mechatronics Engineering, I pursued a Master’s in Mechanical Engineering and I am now undertaking my PhD in Materials Engineering at the University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ).
Left: Enjoying the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers. Right: Working on my Master’s project. Both moments captured in Toowoomba.
Beyond my studies, I have proudly served as an International Student Ambassador for UniSQ. This experience has shown me the value of community, connection, and growth outside the classroom. Living in Toowoomba has been more than just an academic journey. It has been a chance to discover a vibrant city and embrace challenges that continue to help me grow. This inspired me to apply for the role of Study Toowoomba Ambassador.
It all began with a Facebook post announcing that Study Toowoomba was looking for ambassadors for 2025/26. On the day of the information booth at UniSQ, I stopped by after finishing my research preparations. I learned that the role was not only about promoting the city but also about building connections, sharing stories, and engaging with people across industries and cultures. That night I thought carefully about it, and the next day I submitted my application.
Study Toowoomba Ambassador Program
Not long after, while I was in an engineering workshop preparing experiments with colleagues, my phone rang. On the other end came the exciting news that I had been selected as a Study Toowoomba Ambassador. A welcomed challenge for which I was thrilled and eager to take on, it also deepened my knowledge of this city, which is recognised as the ‘Capital of the Darling Downs’ and fondly called ‘The Garden City’.
Two weeks later, I attended the Welcome Event for the 2025/26 Ambassadors. It was an unforgettable evening where I met committee members, past ambassadors, and my fellow new ambassadors. After receiving my certificate and having my profile photo taken, I was warmly welcomed by Mayor Geoff McDonald and the councillors. The night was full of conversations, new perspectives, and friendships that stretched across cultures and disciplines. It was such an engaging evening that the time passed before I even realised. It truly felt like the beginning of an exciting new chapter.
Left: Celebrating my appointment as a 2025/26 Study Toowoomba Ambassador. Right: Connecting with fellow ambassadors at the Welcome Event. (Both photos taken in Toowoomba.)
Being chosen as a Study Toowoomba Ambassador 2025/26 is more than just an achievement for me. It is a commitment to represent Toowoomba, to share its unique character with others, and to continue learning and growing along the way. I am proud of this opportunity and ready to step into this role with passion, curiosity, and an open heart.
Siripan (Siri) Rattanaamporn
Study Toowoomba Ambassador 2025/26
