International medical student

She became interested in studying abroad during her time at school, and was particularly drawn to Romania to be closer to her family and explore her ancestry. 

‘Studying with an international cohort, I have learned so much and have been exposed to so many wonderful people and cultures—much like my time at BGGS. 

‘I believe that my family and the nurturing environment at School enabled me to achieve my goals. I am most thankful for the guidance of (then) Head of Beanland House, Ms Rachael Christopherson, and Science teachers, Ms Anne Byrne, Miss Gerri Bernard and Mrs Monica Urry.  

‘They not only encouraged me to explore my interest in science, but pushed me to be the best version of myself,’ Nadja said.  

Since graduating from BGGS, Nadja has been pursuing a career in Medicine—traversing spatial and professional disciplines in the pursuit of deeper and wider knowledge. While her passion for ophthalmology remains strong, she firmly believes that all doctors should have a solid understanding of multiple specialties to provide the best care.  

Her most recent studies have been supported through the ERASMUS+ mobility scholarships—an initiative enabling students to study in their choice of partnering countries across the globe. This enabled her to complete two years of medical studies at Ulm University in Germany, while remaining close to her family in Romania (graduating in July 2025). Throughout her academic journey, Nadja has also collaborated with her home university in Romania—George Emil Palade University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science, and Technology of Târgu Mureș—and the Queensland Eye Institute in Brisbane, Australia.  

Nadja is also an active supporter of the medical industry in general, reveling in Europe’s broader conversation regarding future treatment advancement while enjoying the sights.  

‘In Europe, I have been most grateful for the opportunity to travel—the landscapes in Europe are so picturesque, as they are in Australia. 

‘In 2023, I attended an ophthalmology course at the European School for Advanced Studies in Ophthalmology in Lugano, Switzerland.  

‘I have also participated in the Romanian Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery and the Romanian Retina Society Congresses in both 2023 and 2024 at the Black Sea in Romania,’ she said.  

Nadja’s dedication to her craft, while courageously traversing the bounds of medical disciplines and places, is an example of Girls Grammar’s ethos in action.