Jorge Garrote: University of León, Spain
Why did you apply to participate in the study abroad/exchange program and why did you choose UOW over other universities?
After three years of study in my home University, I decided to have an abroad experience, because at home all years were similar and the study program was always the same. Once I decided that I wanted to go overseas, my first option was going to an english-language country, therefore my options were USA, Australia or Norway. I choose Australia because I have been interested in the country since I was a child. The reason why I chose UOW was because I was very excited, because the size of the city was perfect (not too big, but you have everything that you need), the Physical Education program was similar to my home one, and Wollongong is very close to Sydney. The UOW website provided me a lot of information. Also the study abroad staff helped me a lot, they made all the paperwork easier and helped me answering every question that I have showing surprising effectiveness and competence.
Tell me something about Australia that you didn’t know before you arrived…
The first thing that surprised me was the behaviour of the people, I am sure that Australians are the friendliest and kindest people that I have ever meet. I didn’t know that in Australia there is work for everyone (especially if you are a teacher). I didn’t know that in Australia they have the English meal times. I didn’t know how important can be the surf, AFL, cricket and rugby for Aussies. I didn’t know that almost nobody played basketball in Australia.
What were you concerned about prior to leaving home for your upcoming semester/year abroad at UOW?
I was scared about travelling alone to a new country, with a new language, in a new college and knowing that there was no possibility to go home if I did not like the place. Luckily, everything worked perfectly (except for my understanding of the Australian accent...). Another problem was that I could only take 30 kg in the plane, so I could not bring my notes from home, which probably would have helped me for some assignments. Also the procedures about the Visa and the English requirements were very stressful because I finished my exams only one week and a half before coming to Australia.
Before I left home bound for UOW, I never imagined that I…
Will never feel homesick. There is always something to do at UOW or in Illawarra area. I have met some really good friends that made this huge change in my life easier. I was impressed how well the university works here, especially some teachers, SOLS and WEBCT Vista have helped me a lot.
What were your favourite subjects at UOW?
EDUP324- Outdoor education: rockclimbing, kayaking, bushwalking and rafting.
ELL152- The teacher was amazing, she teach us how to write in 3 months, I think this subject should be compulsory for everyone at uni (also aussie people).
EDUP124, 123, 223, 224- Practical subjects that offer something different than what I have at home: theory, theory and theory. We had pretty small groups that increased the participation.
How will studying at UOW benefit your degree and/or your overall university experience?
I’m sure that this year at UOW has been the most important while I’ve been in Uni about personal development and maturation.
What was the best aspect of your time spent at UOW?
It’s impossible to say only one. Academically: some people helped me, about free time: there were always activities (as the lunchtime sports in URAC), I’ve had the possibility to meet people from everywhere: Japan, Botswana, Hong Kong, Europe, USA, India, etc. I also have enjoyed a lot the way of life in Australia, with little time at Uni that provides time to travel and enjoy this amazing country.
Your greatest challenge was…
At uni, understanding the accent of everyone. I was used to British accent and it was hard to understand aussie people, especially youngsters. Out of uni, probably by greatest challenge were all the adventure activities: bungy, skydiving, rafting... Some of my best sport experiences have been in Australia and New Zealand and I’ll always remember this year.
Do you think this experience will change your approach to life at home?
For sure, my way of life as changed a lot during this year, everything is different (something like a new life). I’m sure all these new experiences will influence my future. One year without your family, your home friends, your girlfriend... Now I feel more independent, I know that I can manage almost everywhere, and I’m not afraid to go to anywhere alone.
Do you have any advice for future students?
If you are thinking about coming to UOW, DO IT!!! Don’t worry if you are travelling alone or if your English is not the best. In Wollongong and in Australia in general, the multicultural society helps you to get involved and don’t feel like an alien. Also try to get a job before come and bring lots of money, because in Australia and New Zealand you can see some of the best spots in the world. If your English is not very good, ELL151 or ELL152 will help you in your assignments a lot.
Any further comments you would like to add?
I will be always grateful to the people that have helped me: Jodie and Carly from Exchange students office; Kim McKeen, the only teacher that understood that I had problems with my English and things were more difficult for me; and all the people in Richard Johnson College and in P.E.
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