Student Success: Meet Grace Corcoran

Palikir, Pohnpei – A citizen of Melbourne, Australia, Grace Katherine Corcoran is studying a double bachelor’s degree in Applied Public Health and Global Studies at the Australian Catholic University. Through her scholarship, Grace was offered to choose from 44 countries to study and when she found out that the Federated States of Micronesia was one of the countries offered, she researched online about the FSM and found out about COM-FSM.

A book lover, she says she really enjoys coming here. “I really enjoy my subjects - I am studying Micronesian Culture, History of Micronesia, Micronesia Government and Politics and Geography of the Pacific. I didn't really know anything about the FSM or Micronesia before I got here and these classes are teaching me so much. My favorite thing about the FSM though is the people - everyone has been so friendly and welcoming. Everyone here has had such different experiences to me so I am learning so much from everyone”.

She mentiones that the reason why she chose COM-FSM was because she wanted a place that was different from Melbourne, that is why coming to a Pacific Island solidified her decision. 

With her free time Grace loves to read, exercise, and explore the island and all its amazing sights. Especially the waterfalls.  She also recently became a certified scuba diver. “I love being in the water and so have been snorkeling quite a few times while I have been here.  I also love to travel and explore the world.” 

Grace participates in activities  once a month such as reading at story hour at the public library, three times a week she tutors a boy from Kolonia elementary school, and once a week she does placement voluntary work at the public health clinic.

Grace is actively participating in clubs at the college such as the Center for Entrepreneurship, YSO, LGBTQ+, MicroJapan and Women are D.O.P.E. She also helped form the group called Sport, Rec and Fun.