Last Sunday I went to Sydney and realized the ferries ran less frequently, and remembered transportation generally lacks on Sunday... no matter where in the world you are. So when a few girls decided to go to an outlet store this Sunday, I decided to join them... forgetting this very important lesson I learned last week. We took a cab (which is actually very affordable split 4 ways) out there and the driver told us where to catch a bus back to Manly. After we were done shopping we waited by the bus stop for 20 minutes, no bus. We found another bus stop that apparently had public buses and a free shuttle to the beach... and after 30 more minutes of waiting, the free shuttle drove right past us. Fed up with buses, we finally called a cab. Waited another 30 minutes before calling the cab company back and they insisted we had already been picked up, clearly they were wrong. 10 minutes later another cab came and brought us back to school... we waited around for almost 2 hours just to get transportation home. Lesson learned: Know where you're going and how to get back, or stick around on Sundays... enjoy a day at the beach or anything within walking distance.
I decided to blow off my anger by watching a girly movie in my room by myself. It worked. Until dinner... unbreaded fish (which is not filling or appealing) or tofu and eggplant. I tried tofu and eggplant, wasn't as bad as I anticipated, but not at all what I was looking forward to. I went on a walk and got ice cream from Cold Rock Creamery (exact same as Cold Stone Creamery in the States) and worked on homework before going to bed early.
Ok so maybe I'm being a little dramatic, overall it was still a pretty sweet weekend. And I realized its ok to just sit and chill sometimes... even if I'm in Australia. I don't have to constantly be going places and doing things. This weekend there is a huge jazz festival in Manly, and the Rugby championship on Sunday in Sydney. Monday is Labour Day so we are spending the night in Sydney and using our day off to tour around. Should be a really great time. Before that all happens I have lots of reading to do, and 16 hours of class to sit through. And yoga class, I'm pretty excited for that tonight.
Hope all is well back home:)
Monday, September 29, 2008
Saturday, September 27, 2008
Weekend Fun
So I made it through a whole week of class. I finally had marketing, and think I'm really going to enjoy the class. It's modeled after the show "The Apprentice" (ICMS actually got permission and rights from the Trump Corporation) so we are split up into teams of 6 and have several marketing tasks to complete over the semester. Also had to buy 2 textbooks... I have to get in the habit of reading again. Maybe if I do it outside or at the beach it won't seem so bad.
Last night was the beginning of the term "Icebreaker" party... it was such a fun time. Everyone started out at the bar on campus and then walked down to Manly to Steyne Bar where we had the second floor exclusively for ICMS people. There were so many people everywhere... and oddly enough I felt like I knew quite a few. There are only 1200 students at the school which makes it a bit easier, but there were also faculty, alumni, friends, and family around. We danced and chatted until bar close at 2:30, walked up the hill and were home by 3 am.
Melissa, Candyce, Myself, and Brittany before Icebreaker
Saturday morning I went to Sydney with a group of friends to see The Rocks markets and walk around the Royal Botanical Gardens. Paul Collins (PC), a faculty member that makes term videos and offers to guide students through the city or go places, drove us around the city for 2.5 hours giving us a brief overview of the city, where we might want to visit, and stopping for a few photo ops. Bondi Beach looks gorgeous, and I definitely want to make it back to Oxford Street (Its the gay pride street of Sydney with tons of cool shops). PC said he would be taking trips to the Blue Mountains, wildlife parks, and even a weekend camping trip to NewCastle this term. I'm hoping to take advantage of a few of these options. He also said we could plan an itinerary and let him know what day we want to go. It's really nice of him and definitely helps having someone who knows where to go! He dropped us off by Circular Quay and we had the afternoon to explore on our own.
Photo Op #1... Linnea, Tamara, Amanda, Melissa, Alex, and Myself
Since it was noon and none of us had breakfast, we decided to eat first. Linnea's friend had recommended Pancakes on the Rocks so we went there. It was one of the most delicious meals I'd ever eaten. I think I'm going to make my way back there before this term is over.
Amazingness... pancakes, chocolate icecream, walnuts, grilled bananas, and chocolate sauce!
Next we went to the markets and I got a piece of artwork by a spraypaint artist. We watched him paint and it was absolutely incredible... it was really affordable as well. I'm excited to frame it when I get home. Next half the group toured the Opera House, and half of us went to the Botanical Gardens. I took far too many pictures, but this place was spectacular. I'm definitely taking another day trip just to walk through the whole park.
Beautiful gardens with the city skyline behind. More pictures on my flickr site.
I'm not in a pet store or a zoo... cockatoos just hang out around here. Kinda nuts.
We made it back for dinner, and now debating what to do for the evening. Its a little weird not having TV, movies, or even a living room to hang out in. If I'm not in class, at the beach, or exploring... I feel limited to my room. We'll see what the evening brings.
Hope you all have a wonderful weekend:)
Last night was the beginning of the term "Icebreaker" party... it was such a fun time. Everyone started out at the bar on campus and then walked down to Manly to Steyne Bar where we had the second floor exclusively for ICMS people. There were so many people everywhere... and oddly enough I felt like I knew quite a few. There are only 1200 students at the school which makes it a bit easier, but there were also faculty, alumni, friends, and family around. We danced and chatted until bar close at 2:30, walked up the hill and were home by 3 am.
Melissa, Candyce, Myself, and Brittany before Icebreaker
Photo Op #1... Linnea, Tamara, Amanda, Melissa, Alex, and Myself
Amazingness... pancakes, chocolate icecream, walnuts, grilled bananas, and chocolate sauce!
Beautiful gardens with the city skyline behind. More pictures on my flickr site.
I'm not in a pet store or a zoo... cockatoos just hang out around here. Kinda nuts.Hope you all have a wonderful weekend:)
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Everything is just a little bit different
Australia is very similar to America... however, there are plenty of slight differences, just enough to throw me off. Its a good thing I decided not to bring my school supplies along--instead of 8 1/2 by 11 paper, they use A4 (not quite sure the dimensions) which is a bit longer, maybe skinnier too. They have 2-hole punch instead of 3. Basic 2-pocket folders don't really exist, I haven't found them anyway. Staples are smaller too... now you all think I'm crazy and this stuff doesn't matter, but it does kind of, at least if you're as anal retentive about organization as I am. I quit using the school issued diary too... its a very nice planner, but I needed my Gopher Guide. Its just more familiar.
Now about Dr. McRae. She is the instructor for two of my four classes... the intelligent, academic one, that's her. So day 1 we sign a page of 19 rules as to how we conduct ourselves in her class including everything from not talking in class (otherwise the whole ROW leaves the room), submitting assignments with specific headings, not cracking knuckles/back, no laptops, no missing class, no leaving the room during class... these all seem very basic, but you have to read the whole list to understand how ridiculous it is. Her word choice and punishments are pretty unique. We have a reading test every week, and trying to be a good student, I read the chapter, highlighted (its an open book test), and was fully prepared. Still got 32/35... when I showed her my justification (clearly written in the text) she said it didn't matter, her answer stood, and I shouldn't argue. During the class she made many comments about America (I'm getting used to this as EVERY professor does) and decided to make a special note that Minnesota is a state no one cares about, just flies over and its a buffer to Canada. She asked me later whereabouts in the States I'm from, I said Minnesota and the whole class laughed... she kind of shut up after that but never apologized or acknowledged her previous statements. Every time I mention her name around this place people cringe (even the people selling text books)... I'm determined to prove myself in her courses, I might work harder than in any class before, but I refuse to give up and get poor marks in her class. Also, our course website says print off the powerpoints, and today she said print of chapter outlines because she hates powerpoint... contradictory?
My other professor (Robinson) is great... he tells stories, uses real life examples, and uses powerpoint! It is refreshing to have class structure from back home. I think the class will be very practical and useful, much more straight forward than Dr. McRae. We'll see how marketing goes this afternoon.
Other things worth mentioning (or maybe not)... I found a protege to mentor for my conflicts class. His name is Remi and he's from Sweden. That project starts in week 3. New Australian terminology... tater tots are tater joes, if you call them tots, you get odd looks. Sweaters are jumpers... sweater is a foreign concept. Slot machines are pokies. The trunk of a car, is called a boot. These are the few I've run into today alone... I'll try to add more in future posts.
Yesterday I was in swimsuit and shorts for a nap on the beach and walk around town... today I'm in a skirt suit with pantyhose and heels for 8 hours of class! I much prefer yesterday, but both have to happen. And once I'm done with today... just a 2 hour tutorial tomorrow and then the weekend! I think this weekend I'm going to check out the Botanical Gardens, an art museum, and check out the markets at the Rocks again.
Now about Dr. McRae. She is the instructor for two of my four classes... the intelligent, academic one, that's her. So day 1 we sign a page of 19 rules as to how we conduct ourselves in her class including everything from not talking in class (otherwise the whole ROW leaves the room), submitting assignments with specific headings, not cracking knuckles/back, no laptops, no missing class, no leaving the room during class... these all seem very basic, but you have to read the whole list to understand how ridiculous it is. Her word choice and punishments are pretty unique. We have a reading test every week, and trying to be a good student, I read the chapter, highlighted (its an open book test), and was fully prepared. Still got 32/35... when I showed her my justification (clearly written in the text) she said it didn't matter, her answer stood, and I shouldn't argue. During the class she made many comments about America (I'm getting used to this as EVERY professor does) and decided to make a special note that Minnesota is a state no one cares about, just flies over and its a buffer to Canada. She asked me later whereabouts in the States I'm from, I said Minnesota and the whole class laughed... she kind of shut up after that but never apologized or acknowledged her previous statements. Every time I mention her name around this place people cringe (even the people selling text books)... I'm determined to prove myself in her courses, I might work harder than in any class before, but I refuse to give up and get poor marks in her class. Also, our course website says print off the powerpoints, and today she said print of chapter outlines because she hates powerpoint... contradictory?
My other professor (Robinson) is great... he tells stories, uses real life examples, and uses powerpoint! It is refreshing to have class structure from back home. I think the class will be very practical and useful, much more straight forward than Dr. McRae. We'll see how marketing goes this afternoon.
Other things worth mentioning (or maybe not)... I found a protege to mentor for my conflicts class. His name is Remi and he's from Sweden. That project starts in week 3. New Australian terminology... tater tots are tater joes, if you call them tots, you get odd looks. Sweaters are jumpers... sweater is a foreign concept. Slot machines are pokies. The trunk of a car, is called a boot. These are the few I've run into today alone... I'll try to add more in future posts.
Yesterday I was in swimsuit and shorts for a nap on the beach and walk around town... today I'm in a skirt suit with pantyhose and heels for 8 hours of class! I much prefer yesterday, but both have to happen. And once I'm done with today... just a 2 hour tutorial tomorrow and then the weekend! I think this weekend I'm going to check out the Botanical Gardens, an art museum, and check out the markets at the Rocks again.
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
The bed bugs bit
Well they might have... I either got bed bugs at our backpacker hotel in Cairns, or I'm allergic to something. I washed all my clothes (its $6 a load!) and housekeeping steamed my room so hopefully after today all will be well. Its irritating more than anything else... everyone in housekeeping was really helpful with the whole ordeal.
I started school! After a few changes, the registrar (also a very nice lady, even with the hundreds of kids lined up for schedule changes these first few days) I finally have 4 classes I think will transfer back home. I am taking Strategic Management, Conflict in the Workplace, Cross Cultural Management, and Principles of Marketing. My lecturer for Strategic Management was very interesting and made a 2 hour class fly by... it seems very similar to a class I'd take back in MN, except the student population is actually diverse, and we talk about Qantas instead of Northwest Airlines... Hungry Jacks instead of Burger King. I'm beginning to realize how much American brands and our economy affects the rest of the world. Its brought up in each class, always in a respectful manner... even if they are negative comments. My lecturer for Conflict Management and Cross Cultural Management is very strict and academic. She has several degrees, including a PhD in education from Harvard. While her classroom is a bit more formal than I'm used to, I think I'll have a lot to learn from her and really enjoy the classes. One of my assessments is mentoring a first term student of opposite gender and culture. Seems a bit odd that I will be mentoring as I am a first term student as well, but I am taking 3rd year (equivilent to senior year) classes. I'm already used to wearing my uniform... actually feel a bit odd right now sitting in the study area with street clothes (as its only 2:15pm).
One of the interesting things I've noticed with the different cultures, and even lecturers, is how ignorant I am to the outside world. I occasionally read the newspaper and browse world news, but everyone here keeps close tabs on the rest of the world, speaks several languages fluently, and is so incredibly nice to visitors/outsiders. In our business classes back home, we hear about Target, General Mills, Best Buy, and 3M all the time... along with various other Minneapolis based companies. They may be global companies, but what about companies based outside the US. Or the locations and events happening outside the US. As I walk around the residential floors or after hours (its against college policy to speak foreign languages in front of house) I hear people speaking in their native tongue and wonder how I ever got by learning just English. I have an incredible amount of respect for international students that come here with English as their second language. My roommates came back exclaiming how fast lecturers taught and the jargon they were using... they've been taking English since age 12, but its such a tough language to learn, I can't imagine.
One of the reasons I chose this school was its size. When deciding on colleges, I wanted a big school in a big city... Minnesota was the perfect fit, don't get me wrong, I love it there. However, I'm always looking for a new experience/environment... toursity, college town (Manly), close to the beach, and school of 1200 seemed about as different from the Midwest as I could get. Oddly enough, I'm loving this too. It makes a huge difference as an international student to have a small college with caring faculty to help you out. I can't imagine being an international student at the U with a simple problem like bed bugs, or I need someone to help me with registration and picking the right classes. Even "Minnesota Nice" doesn't give you 1:1 help in those situations. Here I can ask anyone my question, and they'll either answer it on the spot, or show me exactly who can answer it. They always ask for your name (or know it already) and ask how you are doing, or chat about something... they're never too busy to help.
After my first class today, I went into town to look for a job. I know I said I wasn't going to work, but weekday pay is $16-18 an hour, and $24-27 on the weekends. I will not let it interfere with my experience here, and made sure to let them all know upfront, I was looking for about 10 hours a week... I'm only here for one term, and I'm available some weekends but will also be doing some traveling. I handed out about 6 resumes. If I don't hear back by the end of the week I may had out a few more this weekend, otherwise I'll get by without. It would be really nice to have some extra cash to go out or travel more... even going into Sydney gets expensive.
I know this is getting long, I appreciate whoever is still reading at this point. I feel that every day I learn something new or have something I want to share. My lifestyle here is very different from home, despite being here less than 2 weeks. I am always in bed by 1am, and wake up between 6 and 6:30 every morning. I don't drink soda, and rarely have coffee (if I do, its instant)... I carry my water bottle with me everywhere. I eat much healthier food, always 3 meals a day without snacking. Since I live and attend class in the same building, Melissa and I have started power walking down the beach and back up the hill to get some exercise. I still have no ambition to go to the gym. However, I have started yoga. There are classes every Monday night. I've heard there are ab workouts Tuesday... I might have to check that out later. I feel a lot more alert and energized during the day, even without heaps of caffeine. Hopefully I'll be able to keep this up when I return to the States.
I'm done now... hope everyone is having a fantastic week:)
I started school! After a few changes, the registrar (also a very nice lady, even with the hundreds of kids lined up for schedule changes these first few days) I finally have 4 classes I think will transfer back home. I am taking Strategic Management, Conflict in the Workplace, Cross Cultural Management, and Principles of Marketing. My lecturer for Strategic Management was very interesting and made a 2 hour class fly by... it seems very similar to a class I'd take back in MN, except the student population is actually diverse, and we talk about Qantas instead of Northwest Airlines... Hungry Jacks instead of Burger King. I'm beginning to realize how much American brands and our economy affects the rest of the world. Its brought up in each class, always in a respectful manner... even if they are negative comments. My lecturer for Conflict Management and Cross Cultural Management is very strict and academic. She has several degrees, including a PhD in education from Harvard. While her classroom is a bit more formal than I'm used to, I think I'll have a lot to learn from her and really enjoy the classes. One of my assessments is mentoring a first term student of opposite gender and culture. Seems a bit odd that I will be mentoring as I am a first term student as well, but I am taking 3rd year (equivilent to senior year) classes. I'm already used to wearing my uniform... actually feel a bit odd right now sitting in the study area with street clothes (as its only 2:15pm).
One of the interesting things I've noticed with the different cultures, and even lecturers, is how ignorant I am to the outside world. I occasionally read the newspaper and browse world news, but everyone here keeps close tabs on the rest of the world, speaks several languages fluently, and is so incredibly nice to visitors/outsiders. In our business classes back home, we hear about Target, General Mills, Best Buy, and 3M all the time... along with various other Minneapolis based companies. They may be global companies, but what about companies based outside the US. Or the locations and events happening outside the US. As I walk around the residential floors or after hours (its against college policy to speak foreign languages in front of house) I hear people speaking in their native tongue and wonder how I ever got by learning just English. I have an incredible amount of respect for international students that come here with English as their second language. My roommates came back exclaiming how fast lecturers taught and the jargon they were using... they've been taking English since age 12, but its such a tough language to learn, I can't imagine.
One of the reasons I chose this school was its size. When deciding on colleges, I wanted a big school in a big city... Minnesota was the perfect fit, don't get me wrong, I love it there. However, I'm always looking for a new experience/environment... toursity, college town (Manly), close to the beach, and school of 1200 seemed about as different from the Midwest as I could get. Oddly enough, I'm loving this too. It makes a huge difference as an international student to have a small college with caring faculty to help you out. I can't imagine being an international student at the U with a simple problem like bed bugs, or I need someone to help me with registration and picking the right classes. Even "Minnesota Nice" doesn't give you 1:1 help in those situations. Here I can ask anyone my question, and they'll either answer it on the spot, or show me exactly who can answer it. They always ask for your name (or know it already) and ask how you are doing, or chat about something... they're never too busy to help.
After my first class today, I went into town to look for a job. I know I said I wasn't going to work, but weekday pay is $16-18 an hour, and $24-27 on the weekends. I will not let it interfere with my experience here, and made sure to let them all know upfront, I was looking for about 10 hours a week... I'm only here for one term, and I'm available some weekends but will also be doing some traveling. I handed out about 6 resumes. If I don't hear back by the end of the week I may had out a few more this weekend, otherwise I'll get by without. It would be really nice to have some extra cash to go out or travel more... even going into Sydney gets expensive.
I know this is getting long, I appreciate whoever is still reading at this point. I feel that every day I learn something new or have something I want to share. My lifestyle here is very different from home, despite being here less than 2 weeks. I am always in bed by 1am, and wake up between 6 and 6:30 every morning. I don't drink soda, and rarely have coffee (if I do, its instant)... I carry my water bottle with me everywhere. I eat much healthier food, always 3 meals a day without snacking. Since I live and attend class in the same building, Melissa and I have started power walking down the beach and back up the hill to get some exercise. I still have no ambition to go to the gym. However, I have started yoga. There are classes every Monday night. I've heard there are ab workouts Tuesday... I might have to check that out later. I feel a lot more alert and energized during the day, even without heaps of caffeine. Hopefully I'll be able to keep this up when I return to the States.
I'm done now... hope everyone is having a fantastic week:)
Monday, September 22, 2008
I made it to Sydney!
Friday night we had an Australian Wildlife Party where they brought in spiders, snakes, lizards, and a kookaburra. Afterward I went dancing with some friends. The bars and clubs play 80s and 90s dance music and you get kicked out for grinding so its actually pretty fun... and my inability to dance is accepted! 
Two of the many creatures I saw on Friday night.
Saturday morning we were up bright and early for surf lessons... again, the waves were brutal. With the help of our instructors I was able to ride in on my knees and plant one foot, but every time I tried to actually stand up I fell off. Its a work in progress, I'm pretty beat up from the waves/board right now... going to give it a rest for a few days. After my efforts in the water and long trek up the hill to campus (I'm seriously going to have the best legs ever when I get home) I needed a nap.
So with the right gear I can look the part... but I'm definitely not a surfer girl.
On Sunday I finally made it to Sydney!! It takes 30 minutes by ferry to get into the city. Its not so bad on a nice day, and the view is great. Seriously, this place is so beautiful. I went to the Sydney Aquarium with Alex, AJ, Laura, and Won. There are lots of underwater tunnels in the oceanariums so you are surrounded by the fish/sharks/turtles. There are 12,000 species, all native to Australia. We were there around lunch time and saw a shark take a huge bite out of a fish... I was a little horrified until I realized it was feeding time and that was suppose to happen. Still pretty awesome though. They also have touch pools where we could touch starfish, sea urchin, and coral.
Biggest turtle I've ever seen... and been close to, underwater tubes are awesome.
We split up after the aquarium and Won and I got some subway and went to the markets at The Rocks which is right next to the ferry. Unfortunately Saturday is the big day for markets and we ended up watching a crazy contortionist performer until the next ferry came. It was a beautiful day and I found out just how easy it is to navigate Sydney. I was also able to take some pictures of the skyline and opera house which is huge! A lot bigger than I would have imagined. After a ferry ride back and another walk up the hill (honestly I've got to take a picture of this hill sometime its ridiculous) and 3 flights of stairs... the old joke of going to school uphill both ways, I really feel thats how it is here, I took another nice long nap before dinner.
This woman is a little nuts... super flexible though
Opera House! I have tickets there!!
I don't know if I've metioned how great the food is here, but hospitality school was really the way to go. We get fresh fruit with every meal, sandwiches, pasta and mixed greens salads, and a different entree every day... we've only had fried food once, and I haven't seen a burger yet. We did have pizza last night, but it was pineapple and grease free. I've gotten used to drinking instant coffee but only once in a while, and I haven't had a soda since I've been here. I had my first diet coke craving last night, which I could get here but I'm really trying to kick my habit and switch to water. Its really not too hard since they only have water, tea, and instant coffee at meals... except apple and orange juice at breakfast.
Slowly but surely I'm already knocking things off my list to do before I leave in December... I have tickets to an opera, went to the aquarium, have plans to go to a rugby game (should be finalizing details in the next few days) and have a weekend picked out for Canberra. This week I will look for a casual job and next weekend meet up with a friend coming into Sydney and go to the tower, maybe a museum, and more markets! The job thing will be very important since I'm spending money SO quickly here.
New goal... learn a few sentences in Swedish, Chinese, German, and Finish.
Some of you may already know this, but my school is actually a division of Touraust Corporation (we got to learn all about the CEO, mission, and were welcomed to "the family") and therefore has a professional dress code. This is actually very normal for Australia as their primary and secondary schools also have uniforms. Well last night I ironed for the first time in years (I get professional conduct points taken away if my uniform isn't worn correctly) and learned how to tie a cravat. The result:
This is required dress 8-5:30 anywhere in the school. In order to go to the beach I must use side stairwells and leave through the parking lot. My legs are pretty beat up from surfing/team building but I'll post a picture with my skirt uni as well once I actually put it on.
They're definitely not flattering... its ok to laugh, I do too. Hope everyone had a fantastic weekend! I'm doing well but missing people back home as well... let me know what's going on:)
Cheers!
.
Two of the many creatures I saw on Friday night.Saturday morning we were up bright and early for surf lessons... again, the waves were brutal. With the help of our instructors I was able to ride in on my knees and plant one foot, but every time I tried to actually stand up I fell off. Its a work in progress, I'm pretty beat up from the waves/board right now... going to give it a rest for a few days. After my efforts in the water and long trek up the hill to campus (I'm seriously going to have the best legs ever when I get home) I needed a nap.
So with the right gear I can look the part... but I'm definitely not a surfer girl.On Sunday I finally made it to Sydney!! It takes 30 minutes by ferry to get into the city. Its not so bad on a nice day, and the view is great. Seriously, this place is so beautiful. I went to the Sydney Aquarium with Alex, AJ, Laura, and Won. There are lots of underwater tunnels in the oceanariums so you are surrounded by the fish/sharks/turtles. There are 12,000 species, all native to Australia. We were there around lunch time and saw a shark take a huge bite out of a fish... I was a little horrified until I realized it was feeding time and that was suppose to happen. Still pretty awesome though. They also have touch pools where we could touch starfish, sea urchin, and coral.
Biggest turtle I've ever seen... and been close to, underwater tubes are awesome.
This woman is a little nuts... super flexible though
Opera House! I have tickets there!!Slowly but surely I'm already knocking things off my list to do before I leave in December... I have tickets to an opera, went to the aquarium, have plans to go to a rugby game (should be finalizing details in the next few days) and have a weekend picked out for Canberra. This week I will look for a casual job and next weekend meet up with a friend coming into Sydney and go to the tower, maybe a museum, and more markets! The job thing will be very important since I'm spending money SO quickly here.
New goal... learn a few sentences in Swedish, Chinese, German, and Finish.
Some of you may already know this, but my school is actually a division of Touraust Corporation (we got to learn all about the CEO, mission, and were welcomed to "the family") and therefore has a professional dress code. This is actually very normal for Australia as their primary and secondary schools also have uniforms. Well last night I ironed for the first time in years (I get professional conduct points taken away if my uniform isn't worn correctly) and learned how to tie a cravat. The result:
This is required dress 8-5:30 anywhere in the school. In order to go to the beach I must use side stairwells and leave through the parking lot. My legs are pretty beat up from surfing/team building but I'll post a picture with my skirt uni as well once I actually put it on.Cheers!
.
Friday, September 19, 2008
End of Week 1
So I've officially been in Australia a week, seems like forever though. I've done SO much! Yesterday was filled with informational seminars and then shopping! All shops close at 5:30pm here except the mall stays open til 9:30pm on Thursdays. I got a hair straightener (found one for $20!), a SIM card for my mobile, and a few shirts. I will still primarily talk on Skype for back home, however here, it is nice to be able to track people down, or call to make reservations/bookings. In the event anyone needs to get a hold of me and doesn't mind the international call my number is 61 2 04 5074 2088... seems pretty long and ridiculous, because it is. On that note, my address is:
151 Darley Rd #238
Manly, NSW 2095 Australia.
After shopping I had no desire to move, and spent the night in. Woke up early Friday morning to get my timetable (aka schedule) and found out there is one class I need to change before Monday morning. Seems a little ridiculous that we get paper schedules and have to stand in line to get classes switched... so unnecessary. Australians definitely don't rely on the internet as much as Americans. Even booking tickets to do things is more commonly done by phone. My appointment isn't until 6pm, and our two sessions today were surf safety and team building. We went out at high tide in some pretty brutal waves. I'm now able to paddle out with the rip, swim over to the tide, and catch a wave in... laying on my board. Tomorrow I attempt to actually stand on my board and surf. After today, I don't have very high expectations, but I'm going to give it a go. Tony, the director of Student Services, took pictures of us in the water. If he posts them, I'll add a few to my blog. The faculty here is phenomenal. They're all so helpful to all the international students... of the 200 new students this semester, only 16 are Australian. They're all very approachable and willing to answer the most simple questions (for instance, where do I exchange my towel?). After an exhausting day of surfing, obstacle courses, tug of war, and clap games... I'm taking some downtime in my room before dinner, changing my timetable, and the "Australian Party." Apparently there is a wild life guy coming in with animals to the campus bar.
Few other things about life in Australia... I'm still getting used to walking on the left. I've caught myself using a few of the abbreviations/different words (sunners, swimmers, suncream, mobile, brekie). I'm already noticeably darker, despite wearing 30+ sunscreen on every time I'm in the sun. Bathrooms here are called toilets... which I guess is more accurate, but its weird seeing signs in the mall that say "female toilets." Every day I seem to be mixing with a different nationality, today it was the Australians. I'm starting to remember faces and names and nationalities which is a plus. When we start classes on Monday though, we all have name badges so it'll be a bit easier. Depending on how much surfing wears me out, and how nice it is... I might make it into the city for the first time tomorrow. Otherwise Sunday. I have a huge list of things to do in the next 3 months, I've got to get going! Hope all is well with everyone reading. Reminder, I have more pictures on my Flickr site
Have a great weekend:)
151 Darley Rd #238
Manly, NSW 2095 Australia.
After shopping I had no desire to move, and spent the night in. Woke up early Friday morning to get my timetable (aka schedule) and found out there is one class I need to change before Monday morning. Seems a little ridiculous that we get paper schedules and have to stand in line to get classes switched... so unnecessary. Australians definitely don't rely on the internet as much as Americans. Even booking tickets to do things is more commonly done by phone. My appointment isn't until 6pm, and our two sessions today were surf safety and team building. We went out at high tide in some pretty brutal waves. I'm now able to paddle out with the rip, swim over to the tide, and catch a wave in... laying on my board. Tomorrow I attempt to actually stand on my board and surf. After today, I don't have very high expectations, but I'm going to give it a go. Tony, the director of Student Services, took pictures of us in the water. If he posts them, I'll add a few to my blog. The faculty here is phenomenal. They're all so helpful to all the international students... of the 200 new students this semester, only 16 are Australian. They're all very approachable and willing to answer the most simple questions (for instance, where do I exchange my towel?). After an exhausting day of surfing, obstacle courses, tug of war, and clap games... I'm taking some downtime in my room before dinner, changing my timetable, and the "Australian Party." Apparently there is a wild life guy coming in with animals to the campus bar.
Few other things about life in Australia... I'm still getting used to walking on the left. I've caught myself using a few of the abbreviations/different words (sunners, swimmers, suncream, mobile, brekie). I'm already noticeably darker, despite wearing 30+ sunscreen on every time I'm in the sun. Bathrooms here are called toilets... which I guess is more accurate, but its weird seeing signs in the mall that say "female toilets." Every day I seem to be mixing with a different nationality, today it was the Australians. I'm starting to remember faces and names and nationalities which is a plus. When we start classes on Monday though, we all have name badges so it'll be a bit easier. Depending on how much surfing wears me out, and how nice it is... I might make it into the city for the first time tomorrow. Otherwise Sunday. I have a huge list of things to do in the next 3 months, I've got to get going! Hope all is well with everyone reading. Reminder, I have more pictures on my Flickr site
Have a great weekend:)
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
O Week
Lots of fun new things happening! I'm meeting so many people right now, and understanding true diversity. My culture shock is coming from school, not the city. There are 62 nationalities this term. Australia has many of the same brands/places or similar enough, but over the past 3 days I've had the opportunity to meet people from Germany, Sweden, Norway, China, and many others... in addition to the other Americans here. O Week is very relaxed, we aren't required to wear our uniforms yet. Tuesday night the cocktail party was a lot of fun. We had a welcoming ceremony and then some appetizers and wine or beer. I met the General Manager of the college, a few professors, and a large group of the German students. It was a great evening.
My roommates Dana and Jolly
Melissa and I enjoying the Cocktail Party
Wednesday I was fitted for my uniform and enrolled for classes. My suit fits really well actually, they had a selection of sizes there and we just tried pieces on until they fit. Alterations are extra, so I'm glad mine fit well. We get "profession conduct" points taken away if our uniform doesn't fit properly or isn't worn correctly. I also have to learn how to tie a cravat, this should be interesting. I'll take a picture when I actually have to put it on. The enrollment process is very different here. There is no online registration and fighting for classes. I picked 8 intended subjects and they're going to pick which ones I get and times I get them. Hopefully I'll find out today or tomorrow. All I did was fill in personal information with pen and paper, stand in line with my passport and wait for approval. It seemed really old school to stand in line for registration vs doing it online.
School stuff aside, I ordered tickets to an Italian opera "La Boheme" on October 18. I can't believe I'm going to an opera in the Sydney Opera House!! There is a group of us going into Sydney for the long weekend to watch the Rugby League Championship and do some more exploring in the city. Hopefully it still works to get tickets and whatnot. Tonight we are taking a bus to the mall. My roommates friend Una had a spare mobile so I need to buy a SIM card. I know I swore I'd live cell phone free, but I need an alarm clock, can't wear a watch to class (yes it's against the dress code), and this country does not believe in clocks. Its also a nice security measure. This weekend I'm taking surf lessons, figured I'd try it out. I haven't been down to the beach yet as it's been pretty chilly. This is expected to be the last cold spurt before it starts warming up. Hopefully Saturday is a nice day. On Sunday I hope to actually make it into the city and walk through the Royal Botanical Gardens, maybe go to the zoo. Its suppose to be a really good one. Once I get my timetable for classes I'll be able to make more definite plans.
Other than that, Melissa and I went with Grace and Chloe (two second term students here) to their friends house in Manly to hang out for the afternoon. It was my first time riding in a car here... left side of the road is still a little weird. They also have round about turns which I'm not used to. I think everyone is a little safer if I don't drive around here.
Few pictures for your viewing pleasure:
The view from my desk window... this picture doesn't do the view justice as its hard to capture the scene in one frame.
The Castle I live and go to school in:)
Its been nice receiving emails and messages from back home:) The internet is wonderful, although my connection here can be a little iffy. I'll have to find a lounge with better reception for talking on Skype. Well time for breakfast... its nuts, I wake up at 6am here everyday!
My roommates Dana and Jolly
Melissa and I enjoying the Cocktail Party
Wednesday I was fitted for my uniform and enrolled for classes. My suit fits really well actually, they had a selection of sizes there and we just tried pieces on until they fit. Alterations are extra, so I'm glad mine fit well. We get "profession conduct" points taken away if our uniform doesn't fit properly or isn't worn correctly. I also have to learn how to tie a cravat, this should be interesting. I'll take a picture when I actually have to put it on. The enrollment process is very different here. There is no online registration and fighting for classes. I picked 8 intended subjects and they're going to pick which ones I get and times I get them. Hopefully I'll find out today or tomorrow. All I did was fill in personal information with pen and paper, stand in line with my passport and wait for approval. It seemed really old school to stand in line for registration vs doing it online.
School stuff aside, I ordered tickets to an Italian opera "La Boheme" on October 18. I can't believe I'm going to an opera in the Sydney Opera House!! There is a group of us going into Sydney for the long weekend to watch the Rugby League Championship and do some more exploring in the city. Hopefully it still works to get tickets and whatnot. Tonight we are taking a bus to the mall. My roommates friend Una had a spare mobile so I need to buy a SIM card. I know I swore I'd live cell phone free, but I need an alarm clock, can't wear a watch to class (yes it's against the dress code), and this country does not believe in clocks. Its also a nice security measure. This weekend I'm taking surf lessons, figured I'd try it out. I haven't been down to the beach yet as it's been pretty chilly. This is expected to be the last cold spurt before it starts warming up. Hopefully Saturday is a nice day. On Sunday I hope to actually make it into the city and walk through the Royal Botanical Gardens, maybe go to the zoo. Its suppose to be a really good one. Once I get my timetable for classes I'll be able to make more definite plans.
Other than that, Melissa and I went with Grace and Chloe (two second term students here) to their friends house in Manly to hang out for the afternoon. It was my first time riding in a car here... left side of the road is still a little weird. They also have round about turns which I'm not used to. I think everyone is a little safer if I don't drive around here.
Few pictures for your viewing pleasure:
The view from my desk window... this picture doesn't do the view justice as its hard to capture the scene in one frame.
The Castle I live and go to school in:)
Its been nice receiving emails and messages from back home:) The internet is wonderful, although my connection here can be a little iffy. I'll have to find a lounge with better reception for talking on Skype. Well time for breakfast... its nuts, I wake up at 6am here everyday!
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Program introduction complete
I’m a few days behind but we have been going non-stop. Saturday we went to Rainforestation about a 40 minute drive up the mountains outside of Cairns. The view of the city was gorgeous, unfortunately I’m terrible at taking pictures from the bus window. At Rainforestation we got to do all the stereotypical Australian touristy stuff. We learned a bit about Aboriginal culture and saw demonstrations of painting design/patterns, musical instruments, and hunting techniques (spears and boomerangs).
Turns out if I relied on boomerangs for food I’d be starving. My attempts at throwing went right into the ground. Australians are big on sports and I’m sure most of you know how terribly uncoordinated I am. It should be an entertaining semester to say the least. We hung out with some kangaroos and then went to an Aboriginal dance performance. It was really cool to watch, even better, they eventually asked for volunteers… a couple girls from our program and these two older people from the States went up and learned to “shake a leg” Aboriginal style. Then it was onto lunch… Can I just say I love Australian BBQs, the food here is fantastic. Next we took pictures with koalas and went on an armyduck ride through the rainforest with a very entertaining Aussie guide.
When we got back, I made my first trip to Australian Target. Its just not quite the same here…unfortunately for the worse. We all needed hair dryers, straighteners, and more sun screen. Turns out straighteners here cost anywhere from A$75-170… kind of ridiculous. Everything is more expensive here, I think I’m definitely going to get a part time job once we get to school, just a few hours a week, and it’ll be fun to interact with the community. After our shopping trip we went to the Courthouse Bar for the Australia vs. New Zealand Union Rugby game. I knew rugby was big here, but underestimated the passion. There were probably 300 or so people gathered outside watching the game on a projector screen and cheering for their favorite team. Oddly enough it was a pretty even split of Aussie and Kiwi fans. I still don’t know that I quite understand all the rules, but it was another new experience and I’m glad I went. After the game we went back to Gilligan’s (our hostel) and straight to bed. It was only 10, but were going to the reef in the morning and had to wake up at 6am. My guess is ocean and hangover don’t mix well.
Good news, is that I don’t get sea sick! We got out bright and early to the Marina where we got on board for a two hour cruise out to the Great Barrier Reef. We hung out on the boat deck all day, and my Minnesota skin is definitely not used to this sun… especially not with the giant hole in the ozone. I reapplied 30+ sunscreen 3 times and still managed to burn. I’m going to have to get better at applying sunscreen. The day was beautiful. We had great weather, and a fun crew. Our first stop was Paradise Reef where I went scuba diving and put my hand inside a giant clam to see it close up. It’s so incredible down there, some in our group took underwater pictures once their uploaded maybe I’ll add a few so you all can see. The second stop was an island so we snorkeled over and then hung out on the beach.
Unfortunately I couldn’t take pictures since we swam over. It was so much fun though. On the way back, a little worn out from the sun, we went inside and played cards. One of the crew members is a magician and did some ridiculous card tricks. We got in around 5pm, had a wrap up session and then went out as a group again. We found “Mad Cow Tavern” that seemed more Midwest than anything else I’ve experienced here.
Monday was our flight to Sydney… I’m finally at school! Our bus driver gave us a quick tour of Sydney, drove along the beach, and then up the hill to school. I really do live and go to school in a castle on the hill. When I get some free time today I’ll take pictures. We checked into our rooms and had some time to unpack before dinner. My roommates are Julie and Dana, both full degree students from China. There are other American students on my floor and the view from my room is amazing. I look out over the trees to the harbor, and finally have wireless internet! I’m in the 200’s which is actually the 3rd floor and there’s no elevator, after two flights of stairs in heels every day, I’m going to be SO in shape! This week we have orientation stuff spread out, lots of downtime to explore and get settled. The orientation leaders took us into town for the night and I have 2 sessions today before our cocktail party tonight. I swear, I’m not turning into an alcoholic, it’s very much a part of the culture to go out and have a drink or two while getting to know people. Tomorrow I’ll be fitted for my business suit and pick my classes, really hoping that goes well. I don’t miss Minnesota weather, but I do miss familiar faces. Hope all is well back home. These will get shorter in time, I just feel there’s so much to tell right now!
Turns out if I relied on boomerangs for food I’d be starving. My attempts at throwing went right into the ground. Australians are big on sports and I’m sure most of you know how terribly uncoordinated I am. It should be an entertaining semester to say the least. We hung out with some kangaroos and then went to an Aboriginal dance performance. It was really cool to watch, even better, they eventually asked for volunteers… a couple girls from our program and these two older people from the States went up and learned to “shake a leg” Aboriginal style. Then it was onto lunch… Can I just say I love Australian BBQs, the food here is fantastic. Next we took pictures with koalas and went on an armyduck ride through the rainforest with a very entertaining Aussie guide.
When we got back, I made my first trip to Australian Target. Its just not quite the same here…unfortunately for the worse. We all needed hair dryers, straighteners, and more sun screen. Turns out straighteners here cost anywhere from A$75-170… kind of ridiculous. Everything is more expensive here, I think I’m definitely going to get a part time job once we get to school, just a few hours a week, and it’ll be fun to interact with the community. After our shopping trip we went to the Courthouse Bar for the Australia vs. New Zealand Union Rugby game. I knew rugby was big here, but underestimated the passion. There were probably 300 or so people gathered outside watching the game on a projector screen and cheering for their favorite team. Oddly enough it was a pretty even split of Aussie and Kiwi fans. I still don’t know that I quite understand all the rules, but it was another new experience and I’m glad I went. After the game we went back to Gilligan’s (our hostel) and straight to bed. It was only 10, but were going to the reef in the morning and had to wake up at 6am. My guess is ocean and hangover don’t mix well.
Good news, is that I don’t get sea sick! We got out bright and early to the Marina where we got on board for a two hour cruise out to the Great Barrier Reef. We hung out on the boat deck all day, and my Minnesota skin is definitely not used to this sun… especially not with the giant hole in the ozone. I reapplied 30+ sunscreen 3 times and still managed to burn. I’m going to have to get better at applying sunscreen. The day was beautiful. We had great weather, and a fun crew. Our first stop was Paradise Reef where I went scuba diving and put my hand inside a giant clam to see it close up. It’s so incredible down there, some in our group took underwater pictures once their uploaded maybe I’ll add a few so you all can see. The second stop was an island so we snorkeled over and then hung out on the beach.
Unfortunately I couldn’t take pictures since we swam over. It was so much fun though. On the way back, a little worn out from the sun, we went inside and played cards. One of the crew members is a magician and did some ridiculous card tricks. We got in around 5pm, had a wrap up session and then went out as a group again. We found “Mad Cow Tavern” that seemed more Midwest than anything else I’ve experienced here. Monday was our flight to Sydney… I’m finally at school! Our bus driver gave us a quick tour of Sydney, drove along the beach, and then up the hill to school. I really do live and go to school in a castle on the hill. When I get some free time today I’ll take pictures. We checked into our rooms and had some time to unpack before dinner. My roommates are Julie and Dana, both full degree students from China. There are other American students on my floor and the view from my room is amazing. I look out over the trees to the harbor, and finally have wireless internet! I’m in the 200’s which is actually the 3rd floor and there’s no elevator, after two flights of stairs in heels every day, I’m going to be SO in shape! This week we have orientation stuff spread out, lots of downtime to explore and get settled. The orientation leaders took us into town for the night and I have 2 sessions today before our cocktail party tonight. I swear, I’m not turning into an alcoholic, it’s very much a part of the culture to go out and have a drink or two while getting to know people. Tomorrow I’ll be fitted for my business suit and pick my classes, really hoping that goes well. I don’t miss Minnesota weather, but I do miss familiar faces. Hope all is well back home. These will get shorter in time, I just feel there’s so much to tell right now!
Saturday, September 13, 2008
I made it!
32 hours after leaving my house… I’m safe!
The first leg of my trip went really well! Mom and Dad brought me to the airport and hung out for a while before they had to leave to beat rush hour out of the cities. Dennis came by to say goodbye which was also awesome. The flight to LAX went really smoothly. We arrived on time and as I got off the plane I immediately met two girls from my program from South Dakota. We got dinner at the airport and waited another two hours for our flight to Brisbane. The 14 hour flight to Brisbane wasn’t as bad as I predicted. It was dark for the entire time because we left at 11:30pm LA time and arrived at 6:30am Australia time, also, international flight attendants treat even economy class like royalty. We got so much food and excellent service, plus they had Australian accents which are still amusing me. I had a lot of trouble finding a comfortable way to sleep, but I got a lot of reading done, and was sitting around people from my program.
After arriving in Brisbane we had to get our luggage and go through customs. The line took forever (as there are 59 of us in our group) but customs wasn’t bad. I was randomly checked by a security guy but that only took a minute. We then had to run to catch the train to the domestic terminal for our flight to Cairns (pronounced “cans”) for our program introduction. The flight attendants were loving the fact that we were American and made us eat Vegemite, which I’ve decided kinda tastes like soy sauce in solid form. It was a fun flight, and seemed super short compared to the previous one. I also had a window seat and you can see the bottom of the ocean from the plane, how cool is that!
We finally made it to Cairns and I heard my name being called by baggage services. Turns out one of my bags was still in Brisbane… luckily, the bag I packed for this weekend was the one I had, and the other one was to arrive in a few hours. I decided misplaced luggage was much better than lost. We checked into Gilligans, our backpacker resort, and then headed to our first program session where we learned basic laws and common language. Australians may speak English, but its far different than anything I’ve ever heard. Turns out they have a very relaxed culture but very strict laws, they’re sarcastic and have a ton of slang that may or may not actually make sense. For instance “Captain Cook” means “Take a look” just because it rhymes? Eventually I’ll catch on.
After our session we had some downtime and I went to a coffee shop with a few girls. Then we all had dinner at our resort and everyone just hung out at the bar for the night. Getting served and drinking with our program coordinators was a little weird at first, but for the most part it was a quiet night getting to know people. I don’t have jet lag too bad, but considering I was up at 3am in this time zone, I was pretty tired by 10pm. Tomorrow we go to the rainforest (breakfast is at 730am!) and Sunday is the Great Barrier Reef (breakfast at 615am!). We have program sessions throughout the weekend to learn more basics about the culture and academic expectations. Luckily there is downtime at night to explore Cairns and do our own thing. So far I’m having a lot of fun meeting people, it’s all a little overwhelming at the moment. There are some unique Australian habits or tendencies that I’ll share at another time. This post is already far too long and pretty dry. In the future I promise they’ll be more entertaining, but until then.
The first leg of my trip went really well! Mom and Dad brought me to the airport and hung out for a while before they had to leave to beat rush hour out of the cities. Dennis came by to say goodbye which was also awesome. The flight to LAX went really smoothly. We arrived on time and as I got off the plane I immediately met two girls from my program from South Dakota. We got dinner at the airport and waited another two hours for our flight to Brisbane. The 14 hour flight to Brisbane wasn’t as bad as I predicted. It was dark for the entire time because we left at 11:30pm LA time and arrived at 6:30am Australia time, also, international flight attendants treat even economy class like royalty. We got so much food and excellent service, plus they had Australian accents which are still amusing me. I had a lot of trouble finding a comfortable way to sleep, but I got a lot of reading done, and was sitting around people from my program.
After arriving in Brisbane we had to get our luggage and go through customs. The line took forever (as there are 59 of us in our group) but customs wasn’t bad. I was randomly checked by a security guy but that only took a minute. We then had to run to catch the train to the domestic terminal for our flight to Cairns (pronounced “cans”) for our program introduction. The flight attendants were loving the fact that we were American and made us eat Vegemite, which I’ve decided kinda tastes like soy sauce in solid form. It was a fun flight, and seemed super short compared to the previous one. I also had a window seat and you can see the bottom of the ocean from the plane, how cool is that!
We finally made it to Cairns and I heard my name being called by baggage services. Turns out one of my bags was still in Brisbane… luckily, the bag I packed for this weekend was the one I had, and the other one was to arrive in a few hours. I decided misplaced luggage was much better than lost. We checked into Gilligans, our backpacker resort, and then headed to our first program session where we learned basic laws and common language. Australians may speak English, but its far different than anything I’ve ever heard. Turns out they have a very relaxed culture but very strict laws, they’re sarcastic and have a ton of slang that may or may not actually make sense. For instance “Captain Cook” means “Take a look” just because it rhymes? Eventually I’ll catch on.
After our session we had some downtime and I went to a coffee shop with a few girls. Then we all had dinner at our resort and everyone just hung out at the bar for the night. Getting served and drinking with our program coordinators was a little weird at first, but for the most part it was a quiet night getting to know people. I don’t have jet lag too bad, but considering I was up at 3am in this time zone, I was pretty tired by 10pm. Tomorrow we go to the rainforest (breakfast is at 730am!) and Sunday is the Great Barrier Reef (breakfast at 615am!). We have program sessions throughout the weekend to learn more basics about the culture and academic expectations. Luckily there is downtime at night to explore Cairns and do our own thing. So far I’m having a lot of fun meeting people, it’s all a little overwhelming at the moment. There are some unique Australian habits or tendencies that I’ll share at another time. This post is already far too long and pretty dry. In the future I promise they’ll be more entertaining, but until then.
Monday, September 8, 2008
Farewell USA
I'm leaving for the semester, but didn't want to leave anyone out of the loop! I will be studying business at the International College of Management, Sydney in Manly, Australia... a northern suburb of Sydney, the capital of New South Wales. I'll do my best to update often, I will also have pictures up at www.flickr.com/photos/schm1761. Manly is 15 hours ahead of Central time, but feel free to email, facebook, or comment on my posts or pictures to keep in touch. As of right now, I intend to live cell phone free (crazy I know), but I do have Skype (tanya.schmitt) for the few hours a day the time zones allow us all to be awake.
My final weeks in Minnesota have been amazing. I was able to take a break from work and school to spend some quality time with family and friends between my hectic summer and semester departure. Its been a little weird saying goodbye to people I see or speak to on a regular basis. A good friend brought to my attention today, that I really have no idea what it means to live half way around the world for 3 months without immediate access to friends and family. He was right, I don't. I won't know until I do it. It'll be challenging no doubt, I'll miss you all. But I am about to have an incredible experience, traveling, meeting new people, and learning a whole lot about myself. I can't wait to share pictures and stories with everyone.
Quick review of my plans: My first flight leaves Minneapolis at 5:05pm on Wednesday, September 10. From there I will fly to Los Angeles, catch another flight to Brisbane, Australia and then another to Cairns, Australia where I will have my program introduction meeting the other students from the US while staying at a backpackers resort and exploring the Great Barrier Reef. I will arrive on campus at ICMS on September 15 for orientation week, and will begin classes on the 22nd. It's an intense schedule but should be a ton of fun. Hopefully at some point during that time I'll be able to update and post some pictures.
I will be returning to Minnesota on December 19th.
Until next time...
Tanya
My final weeks in Minnesota have been amazing. I was able to take a break from work and school to spend some quality time with family and friends between my hectic summer and semester departure. Its been a little weird saying goodbye to people I see or speak to on a regular basis. A good friend brought to my attention today, that I really have no idea what it means to live half way around the world for 3 months without immediate access to friends and family. He was right, I don't. I won't know until I do it. It'll be challenging no doubt, I'll miss you all. But I am about to have an incredible experience, traveling, meeting new people, and learning a whole lot about myself. I can't wait to share pictures and stories with everyone.
Quick review of my plans: My first flight leaves Minneapolis at 5:05pm on Wednesday, September 10. From there I will fly to Los Angeles, catch another flight to Brisbane, Australia and then another to Cairns, Australia where I will have my program introduction meeting the other students from the US while staying at a backpackers resort and exploring the Great Barrier Reef. I will arrive on campus at ICMS on September 15 for orientation week, and will begin classes on the 22nd. It's an intense schedule but should be a ton of fun. Hopefully at some point during that time I'll be able to update and post some pictures.
I will be returning to Minnesota on December 19th.
Until next time...
Tanya
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