Erin spent a term in Melbourne, Australia studying at Deakin University.
Morning walk from our Airbnb in Milson Point, Sydney. Beautiful view of the Sydney Opera house across the Sydney Harbour.
A day full of hiking, biking, games and surf with my fellow friends from around the world. Looking out at the Pacific Ocean from the Lorne Hotel.
Picture taken at the end of our week-long Perth trip. We decided to treat ourselves to an amazing wine, chocolate and cheese tour through some of the best vineyards in Australia. On our trip we went up with two girls from Switzerland and Norway that joined us on all our excursions, it was truly one of the most beautiful trips I have been on.
Rottnest Island was the highlight of my trip. It is an island off the coast of Perth with no human residents. The island is full of the cutest marsupials you will ever see, called Quakkas, and the only way to get around the island is by bike. We did the entire 22 km bike ride around the island, stopping at some of the most beautiful white sand, clear water beaches to swim and snorkel.
Erin, Therapeutic Recreation, Co-op, 3A
Deakin University is amazing. I attended the Burwood campus in Melbourne and it is only an hour tram ride into the Central Business District. All the student residences are right on campus. The school’s atmosphere is relatively laid back. The residences, the Deakin abroad club and various on campus clubs frequently host events and activities.
I have found the Australian and Canadian cultures to be very similar. The people are amazing, helpful and laid back. Everyone is polite and wants to help. I felt at home right away. The biggest challenge upon arrival was getting used to the heat. Their seasons are opposite to ours. When I left Canada in February it was -25 degrees Celsius and when I landed in Melbourne it was 35 degrees Celsius. It took some time to adjust. Another fun challenge was getting used to the slang:
- Jumper (sweater)
- Thongs (flip-flops)
- Singlet (tank top)
- Bloke (guy)
- Bottle- O (beer store)
- Avro (afternoon)
My favourite experience at the University was the Welcome Trip. The Deakin Study Abroad Club brought all the incoming exchange students, from all campuses, up the coast to Lorne for a surfing trip. Accommodations were right on the beach, and meals were affordable. We went biking, hiking, surfing and played beach games. It was such a great way to get everyone out of their shell and to start building relationships.
I took advantage of my time in Australia to travel. I first arrived to the country with my mom; we discovered Sydney, which is a beautiful city and a definite must see. On fall break, some Canadian girls and I went over to the west coast to Perth. We stayed at an amazing hostel on Cottesloe Beach and went on day trips to Rottnest Island and surf beaches. It was so beautiful and relaxing to get away from school and explore during the study break.
My advice to students planning an exchange is to come out of your shell, don’t be afraid to make friends. A huge part of my experience has been the relationships I have developed with my flatmates, fellow exchange students and Australian Pals. It is a once in a lifetime opportunity. Take on all the exploring and adventuring chances that come your way. See new things and really soak up everything your exchange has to offer. It truly is a once in a lifetime experience.