The Semester I Went "Down Under" Fall 2010
During my fall semester of 2010, I was lucky enough to participate in a study abroad program with one of my best friends, Emily :) During our time in Australia we studied at the University of the Sunshine Coast in Sippy Downs, Queensland. Our campus was on the outskirts of Mooloolah National Park, and I actually got to see (a pack?) of kangaroos every morning before class!
Our experience in Australia was unlike anything else I have ever experienced before. It not only allowed me to test my independence, but it also ignited my passion for traveling. I had an absolute incredible experience that I will never forget. We visited the Australian Zoo, hiked in some amazing destinations, visited incredible beaches, danced our hearts out, created friendships with people all over the world, relished in the sun, lived it up to the fullest, and of course studied...occasionally. Although this experience was a long time ago, I wanted to compile some pictures and relive my time abroad. Sorry I don't have more information about Oz here. It has been about 3 years since I was there. But anyway, I hope you enjoy!
Our experience in Australia was unlike anything else I have ever experienced before. It not only allowed me to test my independence, but it also ignited my passion for traveling. I had an absolute incredible experience that I will never forget. We visited the Australian Zoo, hiked in some amazing destinations, visited incredible beaches, danced our hearts out, created friendships with people all over the world, relished in the sun, lived it up to the fullest, and of course studied...occasionally. Although this experience was a long time ago, I wanted to compile some pictures and relive my time abroad. Sorry I don't have more information about Oz here. It has been about 3 years since I was there. But anyway, I hope you enjoy!
I know, I know, you're probably thinking "What, for real?", and yes although it was "for real", the major perk of living with nature came with a lot of responsibility that I was not prepared for. An example of this occurred when I was almost attacked by some crazy exotic bird while walking to class. I thought I heard it give a shrieking warning sign, but of course I didn't take it seriously. I mean what kind of bird lays eggs on the ground? But alas, here I am in the middle of a field as a raging mother comes darting at me full speed. I was in over my head. In the end I survived and also realized to keep my distance from the wildlife that surrounded me. But the major question is here, what kind of university doesn't warn the students about the killer birds that lay eggs on the ground? Anyway, besides this minor flaw, I could not have asked for a better experience while in Australia. I would recommend studying abroad to anyone who is willing to take a risk. You will not regret it. It will change you and create everlasting memories that you will never forget.