Sarah Cirelli is a student at the University of Tampa and an ISA Photo Blogger. She is currently studying with ISA in Sydney, Australia.
1. Develop a love for avocados, Nutella, and poached eggs.
You’ll soon come to realize that you’ll find avocados, Nutella, and poached eggs listed on nearly every menu. Sydney never fails to surprise me with the numerous combinations of these three foods. Sometimes restaurants have their own special menu for Nutella for foods, drinks, and desserts.
2. Bring comfortable walking shoes.
Although there is plenty of public transportation within Sydney, using your Opal Transportation Card adds up if you aren’t an exchange student. You’ll also find that things are close by and it’s not worth paying $2.15 one way for a bus. Soon you’ll be walking 30 minutes to get to Newtown, because why not walk off the Nutella ball you just ate? To avoid the agonizing blisters and constant complaining of sore feet you’ll want to make sure you pack durable shoes.
3. An entrée isn’t actually the entrée.
Don’t be fooled by the menus in Australia. An entrée is actually an appetizer, and the main course is equivalent to what we would call an entrée at home.
4. Organize your studies.
When you study abroad, you don’t want to be bogged down in your school work. Organize and manage your time in order to travel and explore as many places as you can. Get to know your city well because there’s endless things to do, from the Glebe Market to Jazz nights at The Commons. If you complete your course work during the week you’ll be able to travel for long weekends and explore other parts of the country. While being abroad you will regret not fully immersing yourself in the culture if you spend your entire time cramming for assignments because you didn’t manage your time well.
5. P. Sherman 42 Wallaby Way, Sydney doesn’t exist.
For all you Finding Nemo fans I’m sorry to say that P. Sherman 42 Wallaby Way, Sydney doesn’t exist. However, take the train down to Circular Quay and explore the harbor because it is still a beautiful site to see. You can dine at the iconic Opera House, climb the Sydney Harbor bridge, take a jet boat thrill ride around the harbor, or mosey around in the Botanical Gardens.
6. Say yes to everything
The best advice I’ve been given thus far has been to say “yes” to everything. You never know what you’ll miss you out on unless you go. I challenge you to step out of your comfort zone by talking to new people, joining clubs on campus, and exploring new and distant places. Go to a theatre production even if you would rather be taking a nap, or hike a mountain when you would rather be laying by the beach. All of these new experiences allow you to meet new people and give you opportunities you may never get again.
The world awaits…discover it.
Very cool Sarah, enjoy every minute!