Summer High School Programs in Australia & Bali

My experience with MEI Academy on the Australia and Fiji trip in 2017 is something that has stayed with me long after the trip ended. It taught me so much more than what I could have learned inside a traditional classroom. I learned how to be an independent student, how to adapt to new environments, and how to learn while constantly on the go. Every city, activity, and experience became part of my education.

One of the most meaningful parts of the trip was the people I met. I made friendships that have lasted far beyond the trip itself, and some of the people I met in 2017 are still friends I have in my life today. There is something special about experiencing the world together that creates connections you don't easily forget.

The trip also helped me grow as a writer, traveller, and explorer. I learned how to observe the places I was visiting, ask better questions, understand different perspectives, and tell stories about the experiences I was having. It gave me the confidence to travel, explore unfamiliar cities, and approach new experiences with curiosity rather than hesitation.

But more than anything, that trip changed what I wanted to do with my life. My MEI teachers became mentors to me, and watching the way they taught, travelled, supported students, and created meaningful experiences made me realize that I wanted to become an educator myself. I came home from that trip knowing that I wanted to pursue teaching, and I eventually followed that dream by studying Education at McGill University. Becoming an educator is one of the best decisions I have ever made, and I genuinely believe that MEI played a huge role in helping me discover that path.

My teachers were not simply people who taught me during a five week trip. They became mentors who continued to support me throughout different stages of my life. They were there to encourage me, challenge me, and remind me of what I was capable of, even after the trip was over.

Looking back, I don't think I fully understood how much that experience would shape the person I would become. What started as a school trip became a defining experience in my life. It taught me how to travel, how to learn, how to build meaningful relationships, and ultimately, how I wanted to teach others.

MEI gave me the opportunity to see the world as a student, but more importantly, it showed me the kind of educator I wanted to become. Years later, I am incredibly grateful that I said yes to that experience in 2017.

In an attempt to describe how amazing this program was, it is important to recognize that the teachers were such an important aspect in making my experience so exceptional. Everything about my program was beyond remarkable and I have gained so many valuable lessons from my travels. It was such a privilege to create such special bonds with my peers and teachers in places which the view literally takes your breath away. I have always wanted to travel to Australia and Fiji and this was the ideal way to do it; with an incredible group of people and beyond supportive teachers. Not only was I encouraged to excel in my academics, but I was efficiently challenged in so many other aspects which really contributed to my self growth throughout this program. This journey allowed me to develop a deeper understanding of how fun and enjoyable learning can and should be. The trip exceeded the expectations of the MEI motto, "The world is our classroom". I am beyond grateful for my experience, I would not have wanted it any other way and it has truly made me the passionate, and determined person I am today.

The Mei Academy Adventure Down Under program was the greatest experience of my life. For the first time, I felt motivated to be successful in school and learn new things! Over the course of five weeks, I acquired more knowledge and useful academic skills than my current high school has ever taught me. I discovered a new found love for both English and physical activity because of how passionate, dedicated, and helpful each teacher was. The friendships I have made with my classmates will definitely be lifelong. Without hesitation, I would reccomend this program to absolutely everyone!

This is an incredibly unique experience for any student. Not only do they gain the essential english and physical education skills, but they learn quality life skills that they can take with them in the next steps of their lives (university, college, workplace, etc.). They embark on a challenging journey that is incredibly rewarding -- many students commented on how the educational experience helped them grow and opened their eyes how big the world is, and how much they have to learn and explore throughout their lives.

I would recommend this program to any student. It perfectly embraces the ideology behind "the world as our classroom" and allows youth to begin to discover their identity and grow beyond the classroom walls.

Best summer of my life. ADU Crew will always be in my heart and be my second family. Adventure down under was such a great program with such amazing teachers who made everything fun while in a learning environment. If I had the chance I’d go back as fast as I could for even longer. Best experience you will ever have. Take this chance of a lifetime, meet new people new cultures and just have a blast while getting school credits. Nothing can get better than this. This trip has gave me the influence to become a better person and I am transformed into a better lil man. Trust me it’s not a waste of time, I won’t ever forget my family. ADU forever love you all❤️

I had wanted to go on this trip for a few years, and when I finally got my acceptance I was ecstatic!!! It was by far the best way I could have ever gotten two of my gr. 12 courses, and I feel I am now actually prepared fro University. The teachers level of commitment to the students was unparalleled by anything else I have ever seen. I will be recommending this trip to everyone back home!! Thank you MEI!!

When you think about going to Australia or Fiji to be educated and make memories its safe to say that many people would jump at a the opportunity. I wasn't one of those people, I had been worried and consumed by fear that I would miss out on things a home. When I had finally convinced my self to take this journey it was an anxiety filled time for me but all that went away the moment I stepped foot into the Sheraton the day of our departure. The strangers in that room would later become people that I would come to admire and love. We all had an effect on one another, and had absorbed certain traits from each person. To this day I can hear my self talking like one of my friends on the trip and think 'thats something jess would say.' The memories I've made throughout that trip were all part of a milestone in my life, one that helped me grow and mature into a better student and a better person. This trip is difficult to explain, and in all honesty why would would you want to hear my stories when you could have some of your own? I would recommend this trip in a heartbeat to anyone who wants to explore their education, the world and themselves because a trip like this really can change you just as it has changed me.

This was my most memorable summer of my life. All the people who went on the trip were great, we all connected, and we all got along really well. My teachers were really able to help me in my academics. I found that I was really able to improve. They were also able to be really fun and goof around with us when the time was right. The people and my teachers on this trip really made the trip for me. I was motivated to do my work through out the trip which was a first for me. We were also given a lot of time on our own. This left a lot of room for personal growth. I would highly recommend this trip.