Bridget St. Clair, University of Miami, USA
Why did you apply to participate in the study abroad/exchange program and why did you choose UOW over other universities?
Ever since I began study at my home University in the United States, I knew I wanted to take advantage of the opportunity to study abroad at a partner uni. Travelling to Australia has been a life long dream of mine, and thus choosing to study in this beautiful country seemed like the perfect fit. I was anxious to submerge myself in a new culture and learn about the world and myself outside the classroom. was offered a choice of about 6 partnership Unis across Australia and choose UOW, which turned out to be the best decision of my life! In coming to UOW I was hoping to experience authentic Aussie culture over that of a large metropolitan city. UOW also offered a wide range of literature course which fit into my course of study.
Tell me something about Australia that you didn’t know before you arrived…
There is so much I didn’t know about Australia before I arrived! I didn’t realize that Australia was in a massive drought or that the population density of the country was considerable low. I didn’t know what the words sunnies, seppo, thongs, digger or bickies were. I didn’t know about Anzac Day, nor did I realize who Lawrence Hargrave, Miles Franklin or Henry Lawson was. The longer I sit and think about it the longer the list will be, but for time’s sake, I will say that I learn more and more about Australia every day.
What were you concerned about prior to leaving home for your upcoming semester/year abroad at UOW?
Prior to leaving home I was very excited and not too nervous. I had the common concerns about making friends, understanding the school system and communicating with home.
Before I left home bound for UOW, I never imagined that I…
I would have had such a life changing experience that I would extend my study abroad from one session to an entire year! When I got on the plane to come here my return flight to America was booked for June 22, 2007. It’s now booked for December 17, 2007…. I NEVER in a million years planned on staying for an extra 6 months!
What were your favourite subjects at UOW?
My favourite subject from this session was Australian Literature of the 19th Century. As English literature in my major concentration it was very interesting to read primary texts from the country I was living in. This subject was not only useful in the classroom, but it also helped me understand Australia a little more.
How will studying at UOW benefit your degree and/or your overall university experience?
Studying at UOW has been without a doubt the best experience of my life, and the benefits will enhance every aspect of my future. I believe that in leaving my country I was able to take a vulnerable position as a foreigner. The experience of studying day to day with people who come from a different culture has helped shape my own perception of myself, my country and what I want out of life. This experience has influenced me to broaden my horizons and possibly contemplate a career on the international level. I was also challenged each day to learn from my peers, who I thought to be very intelligent and well rounded. The experience of immersing myself in a culture unlike my own has been so beneficial to my academic life, personal life and world-view.
What was the best aspect of your time spent at UOW?
The best aspect of my time at UOW was spent at International House, the accommodation Unit I live in. I have been so lucky to live in such a wonderful multicultural environment.
Your greatest challenge was…
My greatest challenge was and continues to be dealing with the massive amounts of Anti-American sentiment that I have experienced by living overseas. It is a most humbling experience to fight a stereotype that is inevitably part of living on another country. I think this challenge is constructive, however, for it forces me to not only re-evaluate my country, but it also is a good opportunity to be a positive student ambassador and representative of the United States.
Do you think this experience will change your approach to life at home?
There is not a doubt in my mind that all of my personal paradigms have changed through my experience in Australia and yes, every approach to life at home will be different.
Do you have any advice for future students?
My advice to future students is to learn from those around you. Don’t be afraid to push the boundaries or step outside of your comfort zone. Do something you never thought you would do. Talk to as many different people as possible. Go to classes and learn from your professors, and overall keep in mind that this experience is once in a lifetime and be open to change.
Any further comments you would like to add?
I would just like to thank the study abroad office for all your constant help. I feel so lucky to be extending my study here and I really appreciate your superb student relations. The study abroad program you offer is very student-friendly. I can’t thank you enough.
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