Maddie
Sport & Exercise Science BSc (Hons)
University of Wollongong
Choosing to spend a year abroad at the University of Wollongong has been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Travelling to the other side of the world on my own felt daunting, but I quickly realised that stepping outside your comfort zone is where some of life’s greatest experiences begin. I chose Wollongong because it gave me the opportunity to study Sport and Exercise Science in a different environment while experiencing Australia’s famous outdoor lifestyle. One of the biggest surprises was how familiar everything felt. The friendly people, relaxed way of life and the welcoming university community made it much easier to settle in.
One of the highlights of my exchange was exploring so much of Australia. I travelled throughout New South Wales, Queensland and Victoria, each offering something different. Sydney quickly became my favourite city thanks to its iconic harbour, beaches and atmosphere, while Noosa and Byron Bay were my favourite coastal destinations. Every trip reminded me how diverse Australia is and encouraged me to make the most of every opportunity.
Without a doubt, the highlight of my year was skydiving. As the plane climbed higher above the coastline, I questioned why I had signed up, but the moment I jumped, every bit of nervousness disappeared. Free falling over one of the most beautiful views I’d ever seen is a memory I’ll never forget and perfectly sums up what studying abroad means to me- embracing new challenges and creating unforgettable experiences.
Alongside travelling, I immersed myself in university life. Joining the University of Wollongong Grade 1 football team helped me meet local students and become part of the community, while running two half marathons challenged me both physically and mentally. Academically, I enjoyed studying Sport and Exercise Science from a different perspective and gained a greater appreciation of Australia’s history, particularly Aboriginal culture. During the university holidays, I was also fortunate enough to camp around New Zealand’s South Island and travel through Japan. Living with other exchange students made the experience even more memorable, creating lifelong friendships with people from around the world.
Looking back, this experience has made me far more independent, confident and showed me that I am capable of adapting to new situations. If you were thinking of studying abroad, I’d encourage you to grab hold of that thought and without a doubt take the opportunity. For me, Australia became far more than a place to study, it became a place I’ll always think of as a second home.
