Thursday

One of the most memorable parts of the trip was living with our host families. Staying with locals gave us a closer perspective of their daily life. Our hosts welcomed us into their homes and shared stories about their daily lives, work, and experiences living in Australia. Through conversations with them, I learned about differences between Australia and the United States, including their education system and work culture. One thing that surprised me was learning that pay is not always tied to education level in the same way it often is in the U.S. Many Australians choose career paths based on lifestyle and opportunities, and some even work abroad to places like England for better pay then go back. These conversations with our hosts helped us better understand the realities of life in another country and challenged some assumptions. 

Some of our favorite memories came from exploring Australia's incredible scenery and attractions. Visiting Jervis Bay, the Blue Mountains, feeding kangaroos and seeing landmarks like the Sydney Opera House made the experience unforgettable. There were challenges along the way, including adjusting to a new environment, navigating unfamiliar places, and being away from home, but those experiences helped us become more independent and confident. Most importantly, we made new friendships and gained a greater appreciation for different cultures. This study abroad program was an experience we will never forget, and we are grateful for everything we learned and everyone we met along the way.