As a whole, studying abroad was the best choice I’ve ever made. Being exposed so many different people, opinions, places, challenges, and perspectives allowed me to grow immensely as an individual. Speaking to people from countries such as Norway, South Africa, Denmark, Sweden, Spain, and (of course) Australia broadened my mental horizons about the world and challenged some prior misconceptions that I held. TEAN made this whole experience effortless as they helped with setting up phones, navigating the public transportation, arranging meet-ups for socialization, and offering suggestions about the best places to see/go in and around Gold Coast. It seems cliché to say that I met some life-long friends, but I truly believe I will stay in close contact with a group of fellow TEANers that made my experience the best that it could be.
What was the most surprising thing you saw or did?
The most surprising thing I did was start saying yes to every new experience I could. Whether this be going to a concert I was unfamiliar with, seeing a film festival about the ocean, dancing all night, or spending time with new people, I tried to say yes to those experiences. And the times that I said yes made the best memories that I have while abroad. Embracing new challenges and opportunities was the most surprising thing I did, and I'm quite proud of myself for that.