When I found out I would be spending six weeks studying abroad in Sydney, Australia, I was so excited for the opportunity to experience a new country, meet new people, and travel somewhere completely different from home. Now that I am here through CIEE, I can honestly say it has been an unforgettable experience filled with new memories and opportunities to step outside my comfort zone!
One of my first pictures in Australia was of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour. Seeing such an iconic place in person was surreal after seeing pictures of it for so long! From figuring out public transportation to exploring new neighborhoods, there has been something new to learn almost every day. One thing I did not expect was how unpredictable the weather would be! We have had days with highs in the 90s followed by days in the 50s. It feels like we experience every season in one week, just like Bama!
My favorite thing about Sydney has been the people and friendships I have made. Moving across the world for six weeks can feel like a big adjustment, but being surrounded by other CIEE students who are having the same experience makes it so much easier and more fun. I have loved exploring the city with friends, trying new things, and making memories together. Sydney itself is also such a fun place to live, with so much to do and beautiful outdoor spaces to explore. I know I will miss getting to discover new places with friends and never knowing exactly what the day might bring!
Taking classes abroad has been different from my usual routine at the University of Alabama. As a kinesiology major, most of my classes back home focus on the human body, health, and exercise. Here, I have had the opportunity to explore different subjects and learn more about Australian history and culture.
Some of the most interesting parts of my trip has been learning about Australia’s past from a different perspective and thinking about how history continues to influence the present. I have also learned how important it is to balance schoolwork with traveling and exploring. Studying abroad is not just a vacation, and some of the most valuable learning happens outside the classroom!
One of the things I was most excited about was the opportunity to travel around Australia. I have already visited Melbourne, which gave me the chance to experience another Australian city outside Sydney. Next up, I am heading to Cairns to visit the Great Barrier Reef! I am so excited to see one of Australia’s most famous natural landmarks and experience another part of the country. Traveling has also taught me to be more independent, plan ahead, and make the most of my time abroad.
I have really enjoyed noticing the differences between Australian and American culture. Even though Australians speak English, there are TONS of different slang words and expressions to learn! These little differences make everyday life interesting and remind me how much you can learn from experiencing another culture firsthand.
It is crazy to think how quickly these six weeks are going by. When I first arrived, I was excited about everything I would get to see and do. Now, I am realizing how many memories I have already made and how much I still want to experience before heading home. I am so grateful to the University of Alabama and CIEE for making this opportunity possible. Studying abroad has reminded me how much you can learn by stepping outside your comfort zone and saying yes to new experiences.
Roll Tide ❤️🐨
