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GO Student Ambassadors, International Placements

Meet the GO Ambassador 2026/27 – Ella Cotterell

16 September 2026
Global Opportunities Globetrotters

Global Opportunities Globetrotters

Name: Ella Cotterell

School, degree programme and year of study: School of Bioscience, MBiochemistry with Professional Training Year, Year 3

Host destination: University of Sydney, Australia

Your experience abroad

Tell us about your global opportunity—where did you go, and what did you do?

During my Professional Training Year, I had the opportunity to spend a year at the University of Sydney in Australia. I worked in a research laboratory investigating how bacteria survive and cause infection, gaining hands-on experience and developing new laboratory skills along the way. My daily life in the lab involved designing new experiments, troubleshooting, asking questions and following the data, helping me become more confident working independently as part of a research team. I was also fortunate to present my research findings at a national science conference in Melbourne, where I connected with scientists from across Australia and around the world. Alongside my research, I made the most of living abroad by travelling around Australia, embracing Australian culture and meeting some incredible people.

What surprised you the most about your host country/programme/time abroad?
What surprised me the most about my time abroad was how much I grew in confidence and independence throughout the year. While I expected my Professional Training Year to help me develop professionally, I didn’t realise how much living in a new country would push me outside my comfort zone. From starting in a new laboratory to making new friends and travelling independently, I quickly became comfortable doing things on my own and realised how much I enjoyed exploring new places and trying new things.

 

What is the one thing you miss about your time abroad?
I think one thing I miss from my time abroad is the Australian outdoor lifestyle, especially being by the beach. There were so many different groups and activities to get involved in around Sydney, making it so easy to meet new people. Although I definitely miss the Tim Tam biscuits too!

A bit about you!

What’s something you’re passionate about outside of your studies?

I am passionate about keeping active, being outdoors and trying new things. Whether it’s going for a run, exploring somewhere new or trying a new sport, I love finding ways to make the most of being outside.
 

What’s your favourite place on campus/in Cardiff?

My favourite place in Cardiff is Bute Park. I love going there for a walk or run when I want a break from studying.

 

If you could live anywhere in the world for a year (a dream destination), where would it be—and why?
If I could live anywhere in the world for a year, I would choose Canada. I’d love to explore the mountains and lakes, try winter sports and experience a completely different side of the outdoors.

What’s a fun fact most people don’t know about you?
I ran the Bath half marathon!

Reflections and Advice

Describe your global experience in three words
Unforgettable, Exciting , Rewarding


What advice would you give to students considering a global opportunity?

Go for it! Although moving to a new country can feel very nerve-wracking and outside your comfort zone, you will quickly settle in and gain so much confidence and independence. Get involved, meet new people and say yes to as many opportunities as you can!