My Time in Sydney!

I am a senior at Arizona State and I went to Sydney for 6 weeks. I was super on the fence about going and wasn't sure if it was a good idea. Eventually, my family and friends told me I'd regret it if I didn't enough times that I was convinced! The flight here was long but not bad at all. Upon arrival, the first week was windy and rainy. Make sure you check the weather reports! However, we had orientation and quickly made friends in the program. We learned to do things in Sydney that didn't involve the warm beach and now, I'm so grateful for those times. My first tip is this: say yes to everything and everyone in the first week. I met so many great people. We went to the first CIEE excursion together (a tour of the botanical gardens) and there I met even more people! It was pouring rain that day but afterwards we visited a nearby museum. After the first week of adjusting and meeting people and overall craziness, you quickly settle into a routine. Classes help you stay structured. Now the best part: THE WEATHER. The second it got sunny in Sydney, it was paradise on earth. Our daily schedule looked like this: wake up, workout (we liked taking pilates classes at Bondi), class, homework, beach and more beach and then dinner with friends. Weekends were so fun in Sydney. We explored all the thrift markets, farmers markets and shopping centers. As a girl who loves shopping, Sydney was amazing. Double Bay, Bondi Junction, Glebe Markets...the shopping list is endless. Australians are as friendly as they are made out to be. Also, the most important part to me, Sydney felt incredibly safe. While studying abroad, it's important to practice independence. There are certain times when you may want to do something differently than everyone else and that's where it's ok to have a solo adventure! I learned how to take public transport on my own and at first I was scared. However, as time went on, it was super easy to pick up on. Never once did I feel unsafe on my own in Sydney. Also, the food was amazing. So many great options and such a diverse variety offered in the city. I'm not going to lie and say every part of studying abroad is amazing and easy. There are bumps in the road, like anything in life, but trust me when I tell you that they are well worth it. You will grow so much while abroad and learn so much about yourself. Sydney is a great place to do so. My roommate- it was her first time out of the United States and she absolutely loved it and felt so comfortable. It may take a few days to find your footing and adjust. It will take you some time to find your people, find your routine and figure out how to get around. I would recommend coming with a bucket list and activities that you know you want to do. Overall, I would recommend this to absolutely anyone interested.