My second home with my second family

I always knew I wanted to explore the vibrant scenes of Sydney, Australia, but I could never have been prepared for the pure magic I experienced. Sydney was the most incredible home away from home. From the perfectly crafted flat white coffees I got daily at various local cafes, to the beautiful scenic hiking trails I explored with international friends in my free time, and the exciting night life beside the iconic Opera house at dusk. If I could go back now, I would. One day I will find my way back. If Sydney wasn't compelling enough on its own, UNSW and TEAN made the study abroad experience the most impeccable and memorable it could be. UNSW is an impressive university of engaging professors teaching subjects they are passionate about to students from around the world. The campus was homey and welcoming which made studying late at the library or meeting groups for projects out in the grass between classes so much more enjoyable. TEAN has left me nothing but good things to say. I will admit I was reluctant at first to let them help with registration as I felt like I was being disconnected from the process, but by the end I was so thankful for their support. They made the transition from UW to UNSW seamless through registration, to picking me up at the airport, hosting me in Cairns for an indescribable orientation, and planning group events in Sydney throughout the semester. I couldn't have lasted through the end of the semester without TEAN when I was unexpectedly diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes and sent to the emergency department. My TEAN adviser in Sydney was the single most helpful, supportive, kind, and caring person through the whole process. She made the uncomfortable and rattling experience so much more manageable by helping me to schedule doctor's appointments, navigate insurance, and giving me the courage to stay in a different country without the comfort of my family. This truly solidified my feeling of Australia and TEAN as a home and family away from the states.