I can’t believe that my time in Australia has almost come to an end. I am so grateful for every day that I’ve gotten to spend here, but it really has flown by. The thing that I admire the most about Australian culture is the focus on staying active and finding a work life balance. Most Australians that I have met make it a priority to get outdoors. Whether it’s surfing, running, kayaking, or hiking, there is a culture that values the world around them. In my time here, I’ve gotten to go to surf camp, which was one of the most fun weekends I’ve ever had. I went ocean kayaking in Byron Bay, where we saw dolphins and whales. I’ve done the Coogee to Bondi walk in Sydney, getting to see the beautiful coastline. We took a day trip to the Blue Mountains, where we hiked to the bottom of a waterfall (and had to hike all the way back up….). Last weekend, I went to Cairns with my roommates, where we got to snorkel in the Great Barrier Reef. I’ve gone on runs all around Sydney, which has been a great way to explore the city. Overall, I’ve had a very active 6 weeks, and definitely want to bring that attitude back to the United States with me. It is important to remember to connect with the environment around you and embrace everyday beauties. I have also found that Australians tend to be more environmentally friendly. There is a larger focus on sustainability, which has made me think about my own ecological footprint, and how I can help the Earth throughout my everyday life. Seeing the Great Barrier Reef was beautiful, but it was also a reminder of the harm that humans have done to the Earth, and that it is our responsibility to reverse that harm.

I have not had too many difficulties navigating Australian cultural barriers. There have been times where Aussie slang has caught me off-guard and I’ve had to ask for clarification, however this is a minor issue. When traveling outside of Sydney, my friends and I have had to put ourselves out of our comfort zones. Staying in hostels has been a bit nerve-racking, but also a great way to meet people from all around the world. I’ve found that being brave a striking up a conversation with strangers can lead to new friendships and understanding of experiences vastly different from my own. Australia, especially Sydney, is very multicultural, and it has been an amazing experience to meet people from all around the world. Even just in my program, there are students from universities across the US. I am excited to go back to the US, knowing that I have new friends from so many different schools. This experience has taught me a lot about being open to new experiences, new people, and how much you can learn from others.