Hello! My name is Lydija Amayo, and I am from Pittsburgh, PA (less than 30 minutes away from Oakland). I am a rising senior studying marketing and working towards a sports management certificate. This summer, I will spend the next six weeks in Sydney, Australia, working as an intern for the Sydney Blue Sox!! I am beyond grateful for this experience and cannot wait to share my summer with you!

I am lucky enough to have family abroad, which has allowed me to travel internationally from a young age. Travel and international experiences have always been important to me. Last year, I visited Brisbane, Australia, to spend time with family, and that trip encouraged the idea of returning for study abroad. I thoroughly enjoyed learning about a different culture, exploring a different lifestyle, and meeting new people (it also does not hurt that the Australian winter does not include snow!).

As someone who grew up in Pittsburgh and now attends the University of Pittsburgh, it has always been a goal to live outside the community I grew up in. While I love Pittsburgh, it is important to me that I push myself into uncomfortable but exciting environments. I wanted the opportunity to challenge myself, become more independent, and grow in a way that only studying abroad can provide. Sydney combines the perfect mixture of excellent academics, a strong sports culture, and a new adventure. Academically, I am certain that this experience will deepen my understanding of global sports, marketing, and international business environments. Throughout this program, I aim to grow both professionally and personally.

During my time abroad, I have three main goals:

1. Develop a stronger understanding of international sports and marketing industries: As a marketing and sports management student, I am most excited to explore how sports culture is different in Australia compared to the States. Australia has such a strong, passionate sports culture, and I am passionate about learning more about how sports organizations connect fans and communities. I believe that by gaining a deeper understanding of international marketing strategies and how global sports industries operate, I will be better equipped for my future career.
2. Strengthen my independence and adaptability: Another important goal I have is to become more independent by living and studying in a completely different environment. Living outside of the States has pushed me outside of my comfort zone but has encouraged adaptability to unfamiliar situations, a key life skill. Whether it is learning a new public transportation system, balancing academics, or exploring and meeting new people, I know these experiences will help me grow exponentially. I hope to leave Australia feeling more confident, adaptable, and open to future opportunities all around the world.
3. Expand my professional network: We are lucky enough to have our provided housing at a local uni, UNSW. The local students are on break for the first couple of weeks of this program, but I very much look forward to interaction with locals around the village! I have had the privilege of interacting with my Sports Marketing professor, Dr. Andy West, and my internship supervisor, Matt Redman. Both have done an incredible job of positioning themselves as mentors and encouraging students to grow both professionally and personally. I look forward to exploring the growth of these relationships and how they could benefit my career.

My first week has been a consistent reminder to appreciate the little things (and good public transportation). This first week has flown by in a blur of hikes, classes, making new friends, and enjoying living abroad. I am so excited to continue sharing my adventures of studying abroad in Sydney!