Why did you study abroad with AustraLearn at the University of Melbourne?
Natalie: I decided to study abroad with AustraLearn because they would help me go to an institution in an English speaking country. I had also looked at the programs of their sister organization, EuroLearn, and already decided to go with them. They have a wonderful week-long orientation to the country and culture that you are going to be living in for the semester. While in Australia, I got to hold a koala, see the Reef, and go into the rainforest.
What made your study abroad experience unique and special?
Natalie: I got to travel halfway across the world and go to paradise, while studying and working towards completing my undergraduate degree. All my classes went towards either my major or my minor. I got to learn about the Australian legal system, relax on the beach, travel to Uluru, see the Opera House, and gain international exposure all while not having to worry about a language barrier or how I was going to get around. The classes can be challenging if you take the right ones, but they can also be easy if you just want a semester to chill out.
How has this experience impacted your future?
Natalie: Personally, it changed how I see things in the US and around the world. It has inspired me to go back and to keep traveling. Academically, it added that new dimension to my undergraduate degree. Professionally, it has helped me with interviews and getting internships and acceptances to my graduate studies. In general, it is driving me to go back, it was paradise and the most amazing thing I have ever done.