SHA Zhengzhen, Meggy

Tsinghua University, China
Exchange to the University of New South Wales, Australia

Time really flies. It seems like only yesterday when I felt excited about coming to Sydney, but it is now time to say goodbye.

Last year, after visiting countless travel websites and reading numerous travel brochures, I decided to choose Australia as my exchange destination. Where else could I pat koalas and kangaroos? Where else could I find universities surrounded by natural scenery? Where else could I expose myself to an English-speaking environment while at the same time enjoy beaches and sunshine?

My stay in Sydney has been even better than I imagined. I was impressed by the beautiful natural scenery, and also by the kind people. They are so warm and smile so freely, making me feel warmer than the spring sunshine. Whenever I got lost on the street, people would offer to help even before I had a chance to ask. Maps seem to be redundant here because people will walk you to the bus stops or even your destinations whenever you ask for directions.

Studying at The University of New South Wales has been challenging but enjoyable. We are offered a wide variety of courses, some of which cannot be found in other countries. During my study here, I took lessons about indigenous people in Australia, which provided me with an understanding of the Australian history. I used to feel shy to speak in public especially in English, but the support and valuable feedback from both my classmates and teachers have made me more confident. I feel a sense of achievement during my studies here. Even reading course materials till midnight has become a pleasure.

Australia is an ideal place for exchange and future studies. It is a place where you will rarely feel homesick. I will come back again in the future because I haven’t seen the sunset at Uluru or had a chance to walk on the famous tree in Perth yet. However, the most important reason for returning would be because I will always miss Aussie’s hospitality.

I would like to express my thanks to the Australian Government and the Cheung Kong Group. Thank you for being so generous and considerate. Your scholarship makes my stay here more meaningful and enjoyable.

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