How 'Straya Changed My Life

Studying at Southern Cross University in Lismore was a dream come true! I have always been so interested in Australia and the lifestyle. This little town gave me a perfect understanding of how living as an Australian is. As we are a little further from the tourist areas, we were able to see the ordinary life of the Aussie's. Being on the other side of the world gave me the perfect excuse to travel to places I otherwise would not have been able to! I was able to visit Thailand, Bali, and many places in Australia that changed my outlook on life. To see different cultures and how people live in other parts of the world was incredibly eye-opening. I was able to create amazing relationships with people from all over the world throughout my traveling and have added a large number of countries to my list of places to visit. This program has motivated me to save up some money after I graduate in order to move back to Australia and spend the rest of my life here.
I was surprised to find out that Australia does, in fact, get pretty cold!! I came over believing it was always hot and sunny but was surprised when it started getting near freezing over night. One blanket was definitely not enough! To anyone who plans on visiting here in the future, try your best to travel to different countries! My time in Thailand could possibly be the best experience I have ever had. Being able to visit an ethical and responsible elephant sanctuary was a dream come true and something you really can't do anywhere else. However, even if you just stay around Lismore throughout your study abroad experience, you will have the time of your life!