At University Hall, it’s the people who make the place — and Sam Wright is a perfect example of the vibrant, unexpected, and wonderfully unique community that calls UniHall home.
Originally from New Hampshire in the USA, born in Philadelphia and raised across Singapore and Sydney, Sam’s story already spans continents. She completed her undergraduate degree in Chemistry at Loyola University Chicago, initially following a pre-med pathway. But somewhere between lab sessions and lectures, she realised her heart wasn’t in hospitals — it was in the ocean.
A stint as a marine science camp counsellor in Maine cemented what she had long felt: she was drawn to the sea. The lab work she loved combined with a lifelong pull toward the ocean made marine science a natural next step. When considering postgraduate study, Australia was always in the back of her mind. After exploring her options — including courses at University of Tasmania — it was the flexibility of the Masters of Oceanography at University of Western Australia, along with Perth’s natural beauty and sunshine, that sealed the deal.
Now studying her Masters of Oceanography and living at UniHall for over a year, Sam has embraced college life wholeheartedly. In 2026, she stepped into the role of Residential Assistant, giving back to the very community that welcomed her so warmly.
What drew her to UniHall was the instant sense of belonging. Living away from home can be daunting, but she found everything she needed — furnished rooms, an easy walk to class, meals provided, and an international community that felt both diverse and deeply connected. “It’s all here,” she says — a ready-made network of people from across Australia and around the world.
One of her favourite parts of UniHall life has been Intercollege (IC) Sport — trying new activities, stepping outside her comfort zone, and sharing experiences with others. It’s that willingness to give things a go that defines her time here.
And then there’s her not-so-little-known secret.
For years in the US, Sam was her university’s official mascot — fully suited up, hyping crowds, leading chants, and bringing energy to campus events. Since arriving at UniHall, she hasn’t quite retired the costume life. She’s been known to pull on the UniHall dinosaur suit at events like Open Day, proving that school spirit travels well across oceans. In fact, she jokes that professional mascotting might just be her fallback career — or at least a reliable side hustle.
It’s this blend of academic drive, global perspective, and playful enthusiasm that captures what makes UniHall special. Sam’s story is a reminder that fitting in here doesn’t mean blending in — it means showing up as yourself, quirks and all, and finding a community that celebrates it.
Her advice to anyone considering studying abroad and living at college?
Get involved. Go to the floor events. Turn up to something even if you don’t know anyone. Try a sport you’ve never played. You might discover a new hobby, a new passion, or a new group of friends. Find balance, too — make the most of what’s included, like the gym, and embrace living on campus by joining the Guild and participating in the wider university experience.
At UniHall, diversity isn’t just about where you come from — it’s about who you are and what you bring. And whether she’s analysing ocean currents or dancing in a dinosaur suit, Sam Wright brings energy, warmth, and a reminder that there’s more than one way to make waves.