I have settled in nicely to life down under. There have been a few drastic changes. First, school is very different in Australia. It is more isolated. Without school sponsored housing, uni students live with their families at home throughout the duration of their studies. This presents a challenge to meet new people, as most students see university as we in America see high school; go to school than return home. Nevertheless, the university students I have had the chance to get to know have been welcoming, polite, and curious about life in America.
There is a school run bar on campus and it is open from 8am to 5pm. I think that is all that needs to be said about that.
My host family has been the highlight of the experience so far. Hosting 4 other international students plus two kids of their own, the house is busy but certainly feels like a home. Courtesy of the culinary inclined international student from Japan, Germany, and Taiwan, every night is a spectacular display of cuisine from around the world. American burgers and BBQ will always be king, but Asian style beef is a close second.
Weekend trips are big thing here. Everywhere from Sydney to Byron Bay to the Gold Coast are flooded with university students every weekend. Brisbane is a quieter city, but it knows its place and offers a nice balance between city life and fun.
Thanks and Gig ’em!