Dana HAN

Student of Chungnam National University, Korea
Exchange to Flinders University, Australia

“Good day mate!” When I arrived in Adelaide, I received a warm welcome. Although it was quite an unfamiliar place for me, it felt like home. All the beautiful places, delicious foods and lovely people created many unforgettable memories. Sometimes it’s like a dream. I still can’t believe that I went to Australia and lived a totally different life from what I had had in Korea.

I had always dreamed about starting a new life. My life had been very plain and I had been tired of this repetitive everyday routine. I hadn’t had any exciting experiences which I had been glad to have them. That’s why I thought the exchange program was a perfect chance for me to escape from my boring life. And it was.

This opportunity led me to some special experiences. I was not only able to study in Flinders University, but also to learn Australian culture and meet friends from various countries. All the things were very new and fresh that I have never been taught in my school in Korea. Going on exchange is the best decision I have made in my life.

I always had fun during my time in Australia. Every Friday night, I joined different kinds of parties in the dorm. The party themes were quite funny, such as ‘Being a Bogan’. Also, I had many chances to travel and explore other cities and do some crazy things like SKY DIVING! Yey! I think I learned a lot more from these experiences than from classes. My English skills have improved and I learnt about Australian culture through chatting with locals or even just by ordering foods. It was a kind of ‘living education’. All the times were worth it and fun. The experience has enriched my life.

Six months passed in the blink of an eye. My life hasn’t changed that much. I’m still living an ordinary life and longing for a new one. But I know I was so lucky to have had the opportunity to be an exchange student and I am thankful for the Endeavour Australia Cheung Kong Awards. Even though going on exchange is just a small part of my life, it is the most meaningful story of mine. I will never forget the times I spent in Australia.

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