What’s your favorite thing about studying with IES Abroad?
“My favorite thing about study abroad in Sydney is hands down the IES Abroad staff. Kate, Nami and Sian are the kindest, funniest individuals who genuinely care about the wellbeing of every single student in the program. I’ve enjoyed so many lighthearted and fulfilling conversations with all of them, but especially Kate. Study abroad isn’t the easiest experience at times, but Kate goes above and beyond to ensuring we have the smoothest transition possible. The IES Abroad Center staff in Sydney are the kind of people that always leave you smiling after talking with them.”
Lily N. • Washington and Lee University • Sydney Direct Enrollment - University Of New South Wales
What's your favorite memory from abroad so far?
"Playing card games with the people on my group tour in Tasmania. We had only met each other three days prior and almost everyone was traveling solo. We connected instantly and I felt like I was sitting around a table surrounded by family... It was one of those moments where you know you have to savor it because they are so rare. There were so many moments like this throughout the week. I will never forget that trip because it was truly the people who made it so special."
What’s the most adventurous thing you’ve done abroad?
"The day after I returned from Tasmania, I went to surf camp. I was definitely going out of my comfort zone, but so excited for the experience. I quickly became addicted to being in the water and getting up on the board. The rush you get from catching a wave is something that can only be understood from experience."
What’s your study abroad anthem right now?
"'Ho Hey' by The Lumineers because the song reminds me of a sense of belonging and family, which is exactly how my trip to Tasmania felt. Also, 'The Unknown' by Athlete, 'Riptide' by Vance Joy, and 'It’s Your Life' by Francesca Battistelli. Of course, two of these songs are from the Soul Surfer soundtrack."
What’s something you did recently that would impress younger you?
"I had always wanted to try solo traveling and figured, if not now then when? And let me tell you, it was the absolute greatest decision of my entire life. The complete freedom to do whatever I wanted to, whenever I wanted to do it, was too good. I loved being a total stranger. I ate quite a few meals alone and it felt wrong to be eating in public without company. I learned, hands on, the value of doing things alone even if no one else wants to go or is available. I met some lifelong friends on my day trips and especially the five-day group tour. It’s crazy to imagine having only just met these people and considering them to be like family."
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“My favorite thing about study abroad in Sydney is hands down the IES Abroad staff. Kate, Nami and Sian are the kindest, funniest individuals who genuinely care about the wellbeing of every single student in the program. I’ve enjoyed so many lighthearted and fulfilling conversations with all of them, but especially Kate. Study abroad isn’t the easiest experience at times, but Kate goes above and beyond to ensuring we have the smoothest transition possible. The IES Abroad Center staff in Sydney are the kind of people that always leave you smiling after talking with them.”Lily N. • Washington and Lee University • Sydney Direct Enrollment - University Of New South Wales
