Sofia is currently studying at University of Wollongong in Australia and has shared her time there with us so far.

Although I had researched Australia, I didn’t really know what to expect, so everything was new and exciting. I was picked up from the airport by the university and along with other international students, we started our short drive to our accommodations. Even though it was very late at night we were welcomed by many people who showed us around and to our rooms. I have now finished my first semester here and it has been the most amazing time! The people are so welcoming, I have made friends with people from all around the world in my tutorials and from my accommodation. The university is very social, with a weekly market on campus, many societies, and weekly events in the uni bar. 

A big thing I did not expect was to have cold weather, when I arrived it was winter, and the temperature was around 12’C so coming from the heatwave we were having in the UK at the time it was a change. Alongside this was a lot of rain where areas flooded however, we still had a few beach days in the winter as it would still get to 20’C. It is currently the start of summer, and we still get a bit of rain however it is nice and cool in the warm heat.

It’s very easy to get to Sydney central from Wollongong which has allowed me to take many day trips to see the Opera house. The trains and buses in New South Wales are great, there are 2 free buses in Wollongong that help you travel around the city and to the University. During our mid-semester break, I went on a trip to Tasmania and Melbourne which were such amazing trips as they gave me the chance to experience 2 very different places (more countryside and peacefulness in Tasmania compared to the busy city life in Melbourne). I highly recommend a visit to the blue mountains, the views are amazing and the waterfalls and gorgeous. I am also planning more trips around Australia and countries while on this side of the world. 

Even though I am far away, I haven’t really felt homesick as it is so easy to communicate with people over WhatsApp and social media platforms. However, the time zones make it hard for both places to be awake at the same time (it is currently 11 hours different).

I did get an Australian bank account when I came over (which helps if you get a job). When converting currency, it is pretty easy as a dollar is around 55pence so I half prices and add a bit extra for estimated guesses. Using an English bank account does charge quite a bit, so I try only using it for big payments like accommodation.

If you are thinking about Australia, I 1000% recommend it, especially UoW as it is one of the best choices I have made! I have made so many friendships and explored some of the most gorgeous places on this side of the world.