Making Friends Down Under

Studying abroad in Australia is an experience that has forever changed my life.  Since my major is International Business, studying abroad is one of the program requirements.  I decided to choose Australia because I have always dreamed about traveling there.  At first I was a bit apprehensive to be so far away from home for such a long period of time, but when I arrived I easily adjusted to the local culture.

I was given the option to live in the apartments with other American students, or to live in “College” with some Australian peers.  I choose to live in college where I was given the unique experience to become friends with people from all over Australia.  At first it was a little difficult to overcome some of the preexisting stereotypes people had of Americans, but after a while the American students were able to fit right in.

The experiences I had were amazing and indescribable.  I traveled almost every weekend and was able to see most of the major places in Australia.  The people I met will be my best friends for life, and I am planning a return trip upon graduation.  I recommend studying abroad to any person that is interested.  It is a great way to expand your horizons and meet people from all over the world.  I learned more in six months than I have in my four years at college because of all of the real world experiences that I gained. 

This story submitted by Sarah Richardson who studied in Australia.