Why did you decide to study abroad with AustraLearn in Fiji?
Andrea: Getting everything together for studying abroad can be a confusing and difficult process. AustraLearn was very helpful and made that process much easier. The advisors at AustraLearn are wonderful as they are there for you with any questions or concerns you may have before, during, and after your study abroad experience.
By choosing to study abroad with AustraLearn, I received many benefits: I was greeted at my destination airport by my advisor who introduced me to my new country for the first week or so (filled with many fun activities) to help me feel comfortable getting situated. They also organize a bridging cultures program for your new AustraLearn family to participate in before starting school. In my case, we went to a remote village and painted a school, brought over books for the children and spent a few days learning about the Fiji culture through ceremonies, bush trekking, eating the local food, and spending time with the village members!
What made your study abroad experience unique and special?
Andrea: Getting to know and experience the Fiji culture was so special! The locals are very welcoming and excited to get to know you. Joining in on Kava ceremonies and the Meke ceremonial dancing at all of the villages that we were invited to are some of the most unique experiences I’ve ever had in all of my travels. I would not have gotten those experiences anywhere else in the world and I am so grateful that I choose Fiji and the University of the South Pacific to broaden my cultural knowledge!
How has this experience impacted your future?
Andrea: My time at the University of the South Pacific has opened up so many doors for me. It not only made me a stronger person overall, but has determined me to travel more, meet people from around the world, and fulfill more of these once in a life time experiences. Due to my time in Fiji, I am now pursuing a Graduate degree abroad (in the UK). I feel that you learn so much more when studying abroad than you do by staying in your comfort zone. The experiences I had while in Fiji studying at the University of the South Pacific will forever be remembered and I reminisce of it often!