Hello everyone! My name is Kendelle Conrad. I am currently pursuing a Marketing degree and the Certificate in International Business at the University of Pittsburgh. Some things I am passionate about include traveling, fitness, and reading.
Why did I choose Sydney, Australia? I have actually been planning to study abroad here ever since high school. I fell in love with the idea of living in the farthest place from my hometown as possible… not to mention the amazing climate. After more research, I grew to love the unique culture that lives in Australia. I also eat a vegan diet and Sydney is known for being one of the most vegan-friendly cities in the world, which has been proven to be true because every restaurant I go, they know what veganism is!
While the program was set to be on January 15, 2020, I actually arrived New Year’s Day with my mother and sister. We spent over a week in Sydney – exploring the city, falling in love with the beaches, hiking the Blue Mountains, seeing a concert at the Sydney Opera House, and, of course, finding the best vegan bites in the city. We also spent a week in the South Island of New Zealand. Here we completed multiple hikes I have been anticipating for years, cruised along the Milford Sound, and explored the charming city of Queenstown. These two and a half weeks were so incomparable; I was worried the program would not be able to live up to the adventure I experienced with my family.
The first few days were nerve-racking, but after meeting amazing people from all over the world participating in our program, I began settling into a routine and feeling confident this was going to be the best four months of my life thus far.
During the next few weeks, I will be taking two classes to fulfill my Certificate Program in International Business, as well as interning with the Taronga Conservation Society Australia. Taronga is a highly reputable and popular organization as it is home to one of the most popular zoos in Australia. However, this organization is not just a typical zoo, but it is centered around the fundamental ideal of individuals conserving wildlife in Australia and around the world. The organization focuses on breed and release programs, habitat recovery, and the rehabilitation and release of animals. With the recent bushfires taking place in Australia, Taronga has taken initiative to support the communities, habitats, and wildlife that have been affected. Throughout my internship, I will be a member of the marketing team with an overall goal of redesigning their website. I am proud to be working with this company and for the opportunity to give back to Australia through the volunteer opportunities Taronga creates.
Thank you for reading! I am so excited to share my amazing experiences this semester.
Next Adventures:
- Solo Trip to Byron Bay
- Updates from Taronga
- Spring Break in Bali
- Weekend Trip in Cairns + Great Barrier Reef
- A Week in Melbourne After the Program Ends!
Cheers,
Kendelle