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GO Student Ambassadors, International Summer Programmes

Meet the GO Ambassador 2026/27 – Lucy Miller

16 October 2026
Name: Lucy Miller

School, degree programme and year of study:
School of Dentistry, Dental Surgery (BDS), Year 2

Host destination:
Namibia (Naankuse Wildlife Experience)

 

Your experience abroad

Tell us about your global opportunity—where did you go, and what did you do?
I spent two weeks in Namibia volunteering at Naankuse Wildlife Sanctuary, where I gained hands-on experience caring for and learning about the animals. I helped with daily tasks around the sanctuary and had the opportunity to track incredible wildlife, including rhinos, elephants and lions. Outside of volunteering, I also went on nature walks and explored the African bush, making it an incredibly memorable experience..


What surprised you the most about your host country/programme/time abroad?
What surprised me most was just how much wildlife was around us in Namibia, even outside of the sanctuary. Seeing rhinos, elephants, antelopes and even baboons going about their lives in the wild was such a surreal experience and completely different from anything I’ve experienced in the UK.

What is the one thing you miss about your time abroad?
I miss the sense of adventure – every day brought something completely different. One day I could be feeding the carnivores and getting up close to the animals in the sanctuary, and the next I could be tracking rhinos and elephants out in the reserve. It was exciting knowing that I could wake up each morning and have no idea what new experience the day would bring.

 

A bit about you!

What’s something you’re passionate about outside of your studies?
I’m really passionate about music, especially singing. I’ve always loved singing and it’s become a huge part of my life at university through being involved in the a cappella society. It’s definitely my way to switch off from everything else and express myself.

What’s your favourite place on campus/in Cardiff?
My favourite place in Cardiff is Cardiff Bay! There are so many shops, plenty of restaurants and a scenic walk along the waterfront. It’s my favourite place to spend a day with friends, especially when you want a break from university.

If you could live anywhere in the world for a year (a dream destination), where would it be—and why?
I would choose to live on a small Greek island for a year because I’d really value having a slower, more peaceful pace of life. It would be a chance to step away from the busyness of everyday life, spend more time outdoors and enjoy the simple things like swimming in the sea and watching the sunset.

What’s a fun fact most people don’t know about you?
I’ve been swimming for years and am also a trained lifeguard, so I’ve spent a huge part of my life in the water!

Reflections and Advice

Describe your global experience in three words
Rewarding, adventure, inspiring

 

 

What advice would you give to students considering a global opportunity?
Talking to an ambassador or a member of the Global Opportunities team can help you discover the wide range of opportunities available. Whether you’re interested in studying, volunteering, or working, there’s something for everybody. Spending time abroad can be incredibly rewarding, helping you grow in confidence, meet amazing people and create memories that you’ll carry with you for life.