Gabriel Fuchina
The wisdom of field experts and active discussions in class played a crucial role in building my understanding of complex concepts.
Gabriel Fuchina didn’t expect one elective to change the course of his degree—but it did.
Commencing Politics, Philosophy and Economics (PPE) at ANU, a single course in international relations sparked a shift that led him to expand his studies through the flexible double degree (FDD) program.
“The most rewarding aspect of my FDD is the flexibility to learn about different parts of the world from so many different angles.”
Now in his second year, Gabriel also enjoys learning about the intersections of politics, governance, economics and globalisation—from pacific security to the ideological roots of terrorism.
"The wisdom of field experts and active discussions in class played a crucial role in building my understanding of complex concepts."
Gabriel was born in the small fishing town of Nachikatsuura, Japan, and moved to Bathurst, NSW, when he was just nine months old. After graduating high school in 2022, he took a gap year to travel Asia and work before relocating to Canberra in 2024 to begin his studies.
Outside of class, Gabriel made the most of his first year living at Fenner Hall, where he formed close friendships with students from across the globe. The trip to Japan at the end of 2024, alongside nine friends—many from his Hall—saw him reunite with exchange students he’d met in class.
Beyond his studies, Gabriel enjoys Canberra’s running tracks, pub trivia nights with mates, and grabbing a baguette sandwich from Savoir French, his go-to lunch spot on campus.
His advice to future students? “Be open-minded and try new things—whether that’s a new discipline, social activity, sport or job. You never know what will lead you somewhere exciting.”
