Hey everyone, Eric here reporting live from Sydney! Hard to believe I’m already a few weeks into the semester — time moves weirdly when half your life is lectures and the other half is beaches and zoos.

So for this post, I’ll be talking about the academic side of my study abroad experience. I’m not doing an internship here in Australia because I already have a full-time job lined up back in the U.S., so I decided to take this semester to slow down (kind of), explore, and see what it’s actually like to learn in a completely different environment.

I’m taking four classes through the GBI Sydney Program: Aboriginal History, Australian Politics, Environmental Debates, and Exploring the City — which, yes, is exactly what it sounds like. For that class we literally walk around different parts of Sydney as part of our “lectures,” which is definitely a step up from sitting in a windowless classroom back at Pitt.

The biggest culture shock? Australian academic vibes are chill. Like… shockingly chill. We’re on a first-name basis with our professors — no “Professor Johnson,” just “Hey, Duncan.” Classes meet once a week for three hours, and built-in snack breaks are the norm. Professors actually pause mid-lecture and say, “Alright, go grab a coffee.” Imagine that happening back home. Could never.

I only have classes Monday through Wednesday, which makes every week feel like a mini vacation. But don’t get me wrong — just because the structure is relaxed doesn’t mean you can slack. If anything, the laid-back style forces you to be more self-disciplined. There aren’t constant reminders or busywork assignments to keep you in check. If you don’t keep up with readings or contribute to discussions, it shows. The weekly readings and homework is what take up the rest of my time on thursday and fridays

What I’ve noticed most is how respect-based the academic culture is here. Professors treat us like equals rather than students to be managed. There’s a lot more emphasis on opinion-sharing, debate, and cultural awareness, especially in subjects like Aboriginal History and Environmental Debates. You don’t just memorize facts — you sit with them and talk about what they mean. Since classroom sizes are around 7 to 15, you typically participate every single course without feeling the fear of not being heard. 

Overall, I’d say the key skills you need to succeed here are open-mindedness, communication, and independence. If you’re willing to speak up, listen, and show up prepared, you’ll thrive. 

Until next time — catch you after my next “lecture” on the beach.