Name: Katherine Gearns
Major: Special Education
Program: USC
Traveled Abroad Before: No

Q: What is the first thing that comes to mind when you think of your study abroad experience?
A: The first thing I think of is 'When can I go back?' It was a trip that I would love to repeat over and over again. It was just amazing and a once in a life time opportunity!

Q: Why did you choose this destination?
A: I choose Australia because my grandfather went there and said it was his favorite place in the world and if I was going to go anywhere, I should go to Australia.

Q: What are some things that surprised you about the campus, the classes, the culture, customs or traditions?
A: I was not expecting kangaroos around campus. That took some getting use to. I was also surprised at how involved they were in the aboriginals in the area. I thought it was interesting to learn about their history and of the traditions they still hold on to today. I also did not expect to meet so many international students. In the end, I had more friends from around the world than I did from Australia!

Q: What are some things you would like students to know about studying abroad in this destination or the program provider you studied with?
A: I would tell future students to be open and to attend the events that are held for them. They were the best way to meet people and to get involved. I would also recommend preparing yourself for the classes. There is a lot more expectations than American universities. Do not be afraid to talk to your professor. They are there to help international students and they know how to help you achieve the best grade possible.

Q: What advice would you offer?
A: Embrace the area around you. There are the major areas such as Sydney or the Great Barrier Reef, but if you are not able to travel a lot during your stay, there is plenty to do around the university. My other piece of advice would be prepare yourself for leaving. I found it was harder to leave Australia than it was to come home.

Q: What was your academic goal while studying abroad?
A: I wanted to not only pass my classes, but to see the differences between our university and that of the University of the Sunshine Coast. I also wanted to enjoy the classes I was taking.

Question? Email Katherine!

Name: April Teller
Major: Movement Science
Program: USC
Traveled Abroad Before: No

Q: What is the first thing that comes to mind when you think of your study abroad experience?
A: Once in a life time opportunity.

Q: Why did you choose this destination?
A: Australia has always been a dream vacation spot of mine. I mainly chose this destination because it offered my program so I could continue to pursue my studies while still being abroad in a country that speaks English.

Q: What are some things that surprised you about the campus, the classes, the culture, customs or traditions?
A: I was surprised to see kangaroos on campus...Never really got used to that! Also, the general lifestyle of Australians is truly as laid back and friendly as the stereotype. The way of living is so much less money involved like how it is in the United States.

Q: What are some things you would like students to know about studying abroad in this destination or the program provider you studied with?
A: There are plenty of other study abroad students going to USC, so the opportunity to meet lots of other students from other countries is endless. I met people anywhere from Japan, to Germany, to Norway. It was amazing.

Q: What advice would you offer?
A: Mentally prepare yourself for coming home, twice as much as you mentally prepared yourself to go abroad.

Q: What was your academic goal while studying abroad?
A: To pass all of my classes but still have a ton of fun.

Question? Email April!