This week is International Education Week
Studying abroad gives you the chance not only to see and travel in a foreign country, but to actually learn about how the people there have values that are different to those that your country holds. I’ve learnt that Australians care about the environment, not just in theory but in practice. In most people’s homes that I ate in, we used real plates and actual glasses, even for a snack. Also, in some supermarkets, you have to bring your own bags. Leaving aside the debate surrounding the Australian government’s recent announcement of the ‘Carbon Tax,’ which may be far removed and complex, actually living with people who recycle, compost and take tote bags with them to the market allowed me to experience day-to-day changes in behaviour.
You are able to meet people from all over the world- other international students- and see why Australia (or your chosen country) attracts so many students from around the world. In my classes, I became friends with a student from Austria, one from South Korea and two from Sweden. Studying alongside students from different places with different viewpoints gave me a more worldly classroom experience.
You begin to learn hidden talents and face fears that you might not even knew you had. Learning to navigate your way around an unfamiliar city is empowering and by the end, I went with an Australian friend to the city, and I knew the city better than her! It’s learning your own power and ability that builds confidence! You can also learn to conquer fears: I actually lived in a house with a dog. This may seem insignificant and irrelevant to “Australia” per se, but it means that I embraced a situation and learned to adapt!
In my study abroad experience, following those of many students before me, I feel older, more cultured, more worldly, more confident, and definitely encourage international study!
It’s a challenge, but I like to say, “Go For It!”
Lilach
2 comments so far
8:09 am - 11-17-2011
This is all so true. For the first time I’m actually using my reusable bags at the grocery store 🙂 I like seeing how similar some of the experiences are in Sydney and Melbourne! When are you heading to Sydney? There’s still a ton I haven’t explored, but let me know if you want any sightseeing tips! I may be asking for Melbourne advice soon!
7:27 am - 11-22-2011
Hey Ashley- Yup, I’m in Sydney right now! I feel oddly excited to the point of giddy-ness. Seeing the world famous icons on the Sydney Harbor filled me with the kind of excitement I’ve seen on my overseas friends when they first see Times Square. It’s like knowing about something, reading about it and seeing it in movies (Finding Nemo!) and watching the first Olympic games I remember watching (2000), and then finally being there, in the flesh. It was a little overwhelming and very exciting.
I hope you’re enjoying Melbourne!
Best,
Lilach