Why did you pick this program?
Sarah: I picked this program because I was not confident enough to leave home for six months on my own. AAG had amazing reviews from former students and had connections with some of the best companies here in Australia.
I'm so glad that I did too! I had a team member helping me all along the way. From the day I submitted my application until now, as I prepare to head back home to the States. I'm glad I made the choice and I would recommend it to anyone.
What is the most important thing you learned abroad?
Sarah: That in order to find yourself, you have to first lose yourself. I am leaving OZ after six months with a solid plan for my future. I know who I am and where I want to go, but it didn't come easy. I was completely uprooted and had to find a new way to live instead of simply living in the norm like back home.
There were times that I questioned why I left home and times where I never wanted to go back. But now I know why I left and why I need to go back. There are so many more places to explore and even more opportunities out there for me now. I'm happy to say that my experience abroad helped me work through all of that, and gain the security that I feel now.
What do you tell your friends who are thinking about going abroad?
Sarah: Do it. Pick a date, save all your money, buy a ticket and go. You'll never regret the friends you make and the adventures you have; good or bad. But you will always wonder what's out there if you don't do it.
What was the hardest part about going abroad?
Sarah: The hardest thing about going abroad for me was dealing with the homesickness. I'm very close to my niece and nephew, who are 5 and 1 year old. There wasn't a day that went by that I didn't think about them. I FaceTimed them more than anyone else back home.
But I had gifts prepared for them for all of the holidays that I missed and they are thankfully young enough that the time I was gone wont affect their lives. Of course I missed other people, but they were the ones that I shed tears over before I left and I've missed them the most while I've been gone.
What made this experience unique and special?
Sarah: The people I've met have hands down made this the most special experience ever! From the people I met through AAG, to my workmates, to my flatmates. I have made friends that I will never forget. The relationships I've made here are going to help fuel my future trips around the world so that I can visit everyone again.
I've met people from all over the world here in Sydney, and despite our different backgrounds we share the same passion to travel. It's a bond that I'm finding runs very deep. I'm so happy to know that I now have family all over the world.