2024 Winter Vacation - The University of Western Australia's Critical Thinking Program Direction Visit Sharing
The cold of winter is daunting, while it is a warm summer in the southern hemisphere. Warm sunshine, fantastic underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef, relaxing coastal sunsets, brilliant fireworks, sparkling dark starry night ...... All the presentations of Aussie summer exude a charming atmosphere. So, change into your summer clothes and slippers, stroll around the seaside city, feel the splendor of summer, and experience the real Aussie life!
After experiencing the Aussie-style life, students have some feelings. Next, let's perceive the Australian summer through the students' sharing!
--A Student (GONG)
Hello, Perth – Never Goodbye
Reflections on the 2024 Winter Study Tour at the University of Western Australia
The 21-day study tour at the University of Western Australia has come to an end. As I sit in front of my computer, I find myself typing and deleting repeatedly, unsure of where tobegin. Over these 21 days, I have gained so much that it’s hard to put into words. After some reflection, I’ve summarized a few key experiences and takeaways that I hope will provide useful insights for future students.
1. Improvement in English Proficiency
Undoubtedly, being immersed in an English-speaking environment, where all listening, speaking, reading, and writing must be done in English, significantly enhances one’s language skills. However, what surprised me was just how noticeable and efficient this improvement would be.
Take my experience as an example. In China, I had undergone systematic English learning, but most of it was "mute English" – heavy on input but light on output. This meant I could read and write well, but my listening and speaking skills were still lacking. Before going abroad, my biggest worry was my listening and speaking ability. I was afraid that in a foreign country, I wouldn’t be able to express my needs or engage in basic conversations.
However, upon arriving in Perth, I quickly realized the situation was much better than I had anticipated. I was fortunate to stay with a wonderful host family: Peta and Graeme, who have three adorable dogs – Molly, Misha, and Marley. Peta, a former English teacher, patiently corrected my grammatical mistakes during conversations, while Graeme kindly slowed down his speech for us. Whenever I shared my experiences at school, albeit in somewhat halting English, they would stop what they were doing, look me in the eye, listen carefully, and respond thoughtfully. Sometimes, they would even give me a big hug after I finished talking.
At school, thanks to the small class sizes, our teacher Amanda paid close attention to each student. She would offer timely encouragement even for small improvements and provided valuable feedback on our presentations. In addition, most of the local people we met in Perth were extremely friendly. For instance, the kiosk owner at Elizabeth Quay Station always greeted us with a cheerful “Good morning” in Chinese, and a kind lady even drove up to us by the beach to offer a ride, worried that the weather was too hot. There was also a girl who helped us buy McDonald's from the drive-through window late at night. Their kindness touched me deeply. These experiences transformed me from a nervous, shy girl who was afraid to speak into someone who could confidently share stories about my life and studies back home with my host family.
Not only has my English improved, but more importantly, I’ve become more confident!
2. Ability to Solve Problems Independently
Although we had a faculty member accompanying us on this study tour, we lived far from the teacher, and while the people of Perth were friendly, the city is sparsely populated. As a result, we had to solve most of the problems we encountered in daily life on our own. The biggest challenge we faced in Perth was transportation. We lived about an hour away from the university, which required us to take a bus, transfer to a train, and then take another bus to get to school. Besides the all-English station signs and difficult-to-pronounce names, the public transport system in Perth is quite different from what we’re used to in China. For instance, the buses in Perth don’t stop at every station—you have to press a button when you’re nearing your stop. Because of this, we had our share of misadventures, including getting off at the wrong stop, missing our stop, and even heading in the wrong direction.
In facing these situations where we had to rely on ourselves, I learned that staying calm and confident is the best way to solve problems. The more panicked or timid you are, the harder it becomes to handle things effectively. By the end of the trip, I found myself becoming more independent, able to get home without needing guidance from classmates with stronger English skills. Even when I encountered a luggage issue at the airport on my way back home, I successfully communicated with the staff and got my luggage checked in without a hitch. "Stay calm and composed in the face of challenges"—this was a valuable lesson I took away from my time in Perth.
3. A Heart of Tolerance and Respect
Australia is a multicultural country, home to people of different ethnic backgrounds with vastly different lifestyles. For example, my host family always added ice to their water, while I was used to drinking hot water. Australians enjoy sunbathing and consider tanned skin as beautiful "golden skin," whereas I usually carry an umbrella to shield myself from the sun. Additionally, many Australian women don’t experience the same “body image anxiety” and dress with a greater sense of freedom, while I found it hard to accept clothing that reveals a lot of skin. At first, it was difficult for me to adapt to these cultural differences. However, I soon realized that my host family would prepare a pot of hot water for me every morning, and even when I used my umbrella outside, no one looked at me strangely.
In China, standing out from the crowd is not always encouraged, but in Australia, I learned to respect differences. I came to understand that every person is an individual with their own preferences and behaviors, some of which I might not understand right away, but I learned to respect them.
4. Treasured Relationships
Since I was the only person from my university participating in the UWA study tour, I was initially worried about fitting in. Fortunately, I made some very valuable friendships in Perth. We came from different parts of the world and had never met before, yet we instantly bonded, and there was no shortage of topics to talk about. Together, we watched the National Day fireworks, played with koalas at Perth Zoo, and witnessed the sunsets and rainbows in Fremantle.
We shared so many experiences. As a first-year student, I was the youngest in the group, but the others, only one or two years older, quickly took on the role of older siblings. They wouldn’t let me carry heavy things and offered me advice on university life and managing relationships. Through our conversations, I learned how they balanced their interests with their studies, how they overcame mental burnout, and how they prepared for the IELTS exam. It felt as though I was standing at a higher vantage point—my perspective was no longer confined to Guangdong but broadened to encompass the whole country and even the world.
I truly cherish this rare friendship, knowing that there will be few opportunities for us to meet again in the future. I couldn’t help but shed tears during our farewell. But I believe that our "fun and happy squad" will remain close—when we are together, we are like a blazing fire, and when apart, we are like stars scattered across the sky. If fate allows, I’m certain we will meet again!
--A Student (ZHU)
The 17 days I spent in Perth flew by like a dream, vanishing as quickly as they came. If I were to write about those 17 days, it wouldn’t be just about the landscapes of Australia. This study tour introduced me to fellow students from different universities across China—some older, some younger, each bringing their own unique cultural background. Spending time with them allowed me to once again experience the warm camaraderie of a close-knit group, something I hadn’t felt in a long time. We joked around with each other, joined in various activities after class, and had fun together. Even though we may not stay in touch as much in the future, our lives intersected, however briefly, because of Perth.
I also grew fond of my Australian homestay family. They treated me like their own child, packing lunches for me to take to school, reminding me to stay hydrated during the hot days, and making sure I remembered my umbrella and sunscreen. Their daughter, Lulu, would chat with me after meals, and we’d share little secrets. I loved the varied Italian and Chinese meals we had, and the post-dinner conversations about cultural differences. They are an essential part of my memories of Perth—the people who made my time there feel like home. There was also Tim, who taught us with a smile, always happier leaving work than starting it; the homeless man who would give us a playful scare while walking down the street; Lachy, a daytime tour guide and nighttime musician chasing his dreams; the bus drivers who greeted us with a friendly “hello”; and the locals who went out of their way to help us find our way.
Life in Australia moves at a slow pace. The buses on weekends come once an hour, shops in the quaint towns close by mid-afternoon, and people seem to hold different views of freedom and aspirations. When I first moved to the small town, I found myself frustrated by the slow public transportation on weekends, struggling to plan my trips. I’d arrive excitedly at the antique shops, only to find most of them closed by 4 PM. Waiting for a bus that wouldn’t come for another half hour felt like an eternity. Life here seemed too slow—the transport, the lifestyle—it felt like people didn’t care about how much they earned, how long they worked, or how much overtime they did. No one seemed in a rush to get home.
Yes, life here is slow. As I sat on the beach at the Sunset Market, watching families picnicking, a little girl eating an ice cream cone in a sandcastle, and people dancing dreamily to live music, I saw the sun gradually sink below the horizon, waves lapping at the shore. The lyrics of an old Chinese poem, “Things used to move slowly, horses, carriages, and letters all came slowly,” echoed in my mind. Life here was just like that poem—people slowing down to savor life. There wasn’t so much focus on money, or desire. They truly spent time enjoying their holidays, their lives, and the present moment. They pursued their passions and dreams with intention.
When writing about Perth, it’s not just about Australia. It’s about the youth riding the warm winds of early summer, winds infused with the gentle glow of the setting sun. It’s about the freedom that fills the streets at dusk. On the other side of the world, thousands of kilometers from home, are mountains and rivers the young have never seen before, and the oceans and peaks they’ve always longed for.
--A Student (CHEN)
After deciding to study abroad, I made plans to experience life and learning in another country before my formal studies began. One day in the library, I came across an advertisement for a study tour in Perth through a public WeChat account, and that’s when I decided to join. Initially, I had concerns about staying with a host family. I was worried about language barriers and cultural differences, fearing it would be difficult to adjust. Several times, I considered switching to a program where I could stay in a hotel, remaining within my comfort zone. But in the end, I decided it was time to challenge myself.
When the plane landed and I approached customs, the foreign staff greeted us warmly, welcoming us to Australia. The exhaustion from the nine-hour flight disappeared instantly. Later, I, along with Jiang Sheyu and Gong Zhiying, were picked up by our host. A kind elderly lady named Peta greeted me with a big hug and a kiss on the cheek—a sudden show of enthusiasm that left me a little overwhelmed. On the drive home, the intense English listening practice began. At first, I could only catch a few key words, but I reminded myself to keep practicing and expressing myself. We had a 30-minute conversation in the car using our broken English, with the help of translation apps and gestures, and overall, it went quite well. I also learned that Peta was the host for my two friends, and that my host and Peta were best friends—an amusing and interesting connection!
When I arrived at my host family’s house, I was greeted by two barefoot men at the door. Since this was my first time abroad, my impressions of foreigners were largely shaped by social media, and I had some stereotypes, especially when I saw that they weren’t wearing shoes. I felt nervous about the environment I’d be staying in for the next month. But once I stepped inside, I found the house to be impeccably clean and tidy, and I felt both relieved and ashamed of my earlier assumptions. However, my first meal with the host family—what people often call “Western food”—was quite a shock. This experience reaffirmed my desire to study abroad, to personally explore different cultures and challenge my preconceived notions about the world.
At school, we met our teacher, Amanda, who was full of energy. Her teaching style, vibrant and dynamic, reminded me of what I had only seen in American TV shows. The classroom itself was a novelty—the desks and chairs were movable, and their arrangement was casual and unstructured, quite unlike the neat, orderly classrooms I had grown up with in China. It was a fascinating experience. Determined to challenge myself, I seized every opportunity to participate, eventually becoming the most active student in the class. Although my English was poor at the start, through consistent effort, I was able to fully understand everything by the end of the course. I’m proud of the progress I made, and I’m very satisfied with the results.
During the study tour, we also visited many landmarks and experienced different aspects of local culture. We even attended a real court trial, something I had never experienced in China. Although the trip lasted only a month, it was filled with exciting moments. I made many friends, and I used to believe that deep friendships required years to form. But in Perth, I found that I connected with my friends in meaningful ways. We discussed our future plans, shared our views on various topics, and one night we even talked from 10 PM until 6 AM the next morning. We resonated with each other’s values and were drawn to one another. Their stories and passion continue to inspire me. I realized that time isn’t the only measure of friendship, and I’m incredibly grateful to this trip for bringing me such sincere and meaningful friendships.
As for my host family, I often spent two hours after dinner chatting with them about the differences and similarities between Chinese and Western cultures. My host, Mel, impressed me greatly with her educational philosophy and parenting style, and she became a role model for me. She has two sons, Jaye and Harshy, who are about my age, so we shared many common topics. These evening conversations were a source of immense learning for me. As someone who once struggled greatly with English, sitting on the couch, having fluent conversations with my host family, felt surreal and exhilarating. I’m deeply grateful for the hard work I’ve put in throughout my university years, as it’s given me the ability to communicate with people from different countries. English has opened doors to new opportunities for me to understand the world.
After returning to China, I wrote a long letter to my host family on the plane to express my gratitude, and just last night, I received a heartfelt reply. As I read their kind words, my thoughts drifted back to my time in Perth. This study tour not only enriched my life but also strengthened my determination to study abroad. I believe this is just the beginning, and with continued effort, many more exciting experiences lie ahead. I will stay true to my goals and take each step forward with confidence until I achieve my dreams.
To all my fellow students working hard toward their goals, and to myself, I offer this thought: “Through effort, become the person you aspire to be.”
--A Student (LIU)
Why I Chose the University of Western Australia Study Tour Program
Multiple Cities: The UWA program doesn’t just focus on one city. We visited both Perth and Sydney.
Multiple Universities: We studied at the University of Western Australia and visited the University of Sydney and the University of New South Wales.
Cultural Diversity: Australia is vast, has stunning landscapes, and is home to a large Chinese population.
In recent years, applying for an Australian visa has become more challenging. I succeeded on my second attempt. Bella, our group leader, was extremely patient and helped me organize and double-check all the documents. Finally, I got my visa! The teachers explained emergency contacts, basic safety guidelines, how to get a local SIM card, and how to use Visa and MasterCard, easing our anxiety and ensuring we were well-prepared to embark on this study tour safely.
The Kings Park
We first learned about the basic history and customs of Aboriginal people, as well as the uses and expressions of some unique Australian plants. In the afternoon, we visited Kings Park, where an Aboriginal guide explained their culture, played traditional instruments, and introduced plant totems and their significance to their lives. It was a vivid and engaging experience.
Francis Burt Law Museum
The legal terminology was challenging. We studied some cases beforehand and learned the differences between civil law and common law. It was fascinating to see how small details influenced legal rulings. For example, "The defendant does not have to prove innocence; the plaintiff must present sufficient evidence to sue. The jury begins by assuming the defendant is innocent to ensure human rights are protected and a fair judgment is made." The next day, we held a mock trial where I played the only defendant—an arsonist. After the mock trial, we attended a real court session at the District Court.
Upon arrival in Perth, the airport pickup service gave us public transport cards and explained how to use them. On the first day, most host families accompanied us on the bus to show us how to transfer between buses and trains. In Perth, you need two apps: Google Maps and Transperth. Many buses don’t display the upcoming stops, and I found Google Maps more user-friendly because it provides real-time updates and voice guidance in Chinese, including when to get off the bus.
In Perth, buses don’t stop unless you signal to the driver by waving, and you have to press the "Stop" button before your destination (buses only stop if someone is boarding or disembarking). Make sure to tap your card when you board and when you exit, and don’t forget to greet the driver with a “Good morning” and say “Thank you” when you get off. In addition, certain trams display upcoming stops, and you may be asked to tap your card again to verify your fare.
I later discovered that student cards offer discounts on public transportation. We initially didn’t pay for several rides, and I found out from my host family that once the number of bus passengers reaches a certain threshold, subsequent rides are free. There are also free buses in the city center, called Cat Buses, color-coded as Blue, Green, Yellow, and Red Cats—just hop on, no payment required!
My host family, Marian and Richard, are both around 70 years old and artists. My first thought was, "Artists can still make a living in Perth?!" I imagined artists either come from wealthy backgrounds, are extremely lucky, or end up struggling financially—so I found it quite amusing! My friend and I shared the same host family, each with our own room. Neither room had air conditioning, and my room didn’t even have a fan! Thankfully, I brought a small portable fan; otherwise, it would’ve been hard to sleep!
Hearty Dinners
Australians tend to have hearty dinners. Marian loved cooking and had all the necessary kitchen gadgets, including a dishwasher, so we didn’t have to worry about washing dishes. Their cooking was quite similar to ours, though Richard preferred sweeter foods. Australians love desserts, but they’re often too sweet for our taste. If you have any dietary restrictions, like my lactose intolerance, make sure to inform your host in advance to avoid discomfort. The tap water in Australian kitchens is drinkable and tastes like mineral water to me.
Outings
Marian drove us to Caversham Wildlife Park and a nearby dog park. In Australia, having a car is essential because public transport can take a long time, and sometimes walking to the bus stop can be tiring. Caversham Wildlife Park was a fantastic experience—taking photos with wombats, petting kangaroos and snakes, and feeding animals for free (the park provides the food). We also got to see a sheep-shearing demonstration. This trip felt like a major English listening exam, as the guides used unfamiliar vocabulary, and sometimes it was hard to hear them over the microphone. I gave it my all to understand!
Learning by Example
Marian and Richard were both passionate about their hobbies and lived fulfilling, happy lives. Richard teaches violin, piano, and guitar. Even in his seventies, he bravely enrolled in Italian classes with his friends, eagerly doing homework and learning a new language! He also recently discovered pickleball, a sport he picked up just five months ago, and now practices regularly to stay fit. On Chinese New Year, I couldn’t believe my eyes—a nearly 70-year-old man spending 10 hours working on a 1,000-piece puzzle! Six months ago, they took a ferry trip across Europe. Richard constantly encouraged us to try new things, explore the world, and not be afraid.
Marian, after retiring, took up gardening and studied color and landscape design. Their home is filled with plants, arranged in a beautiful, orderly way. She loved cooking and experimented with different cuisines, preparing various international dinners for us. She is also an artist, creating beautiful handmade jewelry, dishes, and paintings. Recently, this vibrant 70-year-old lady signed up for a watercolor painting class and happily drove herself to lessons!
Their lifelong learning, passion for life, and ability to stay current are qualities we should all learn from.
During this journey, I met many people and had long, meaningful conversations. So many people offered help and encouragement. This study tour was more than just an academic experience—it was a spiritual awakening, a reminder that life is vast, and we shouldn’t limit ourselves. I hope we can all explore the world’s richness and find our path in life. If given the chance, I’d love to participate in another immersive study tour like this. It’s truly worth it!
--A Student (TIAN)
When I learned that my school was offering the opportunity to study abroad, the first thought that came to my mind was: seize the chance—there’s a big world out there, and I want to see it. Without hesitation, I made a decision that I knew I would never regret, and indeed, I don’t. It was the right choice. This study tour was filled with many firsts for me: my first time getting a passport, my first time flying, and my first time traveling far from home. These firsts symbolized a young person’s determination and courage to step out of their comfort zone and move forward positively. When I got off the plane and arrived in Perth, my first reaction was to marvel at the fresh air, the cool sea breeze, and the beautiful environment.
Homestay Experience:
While enjoying the scenery from the bus, the driver took us to our host families. We were greeted by a kind and gentle grandmother named Susanna. She warmly welcomed us with a smile, asked about our needs, and arranged our rooms. She explained the meal plan for the week and personally showed us the route to school. For the next eighteen days, we got along very well. She made sure we tried all kinds of delicious food—Susanna was an excellent cook! She also taught us that happiness and health are the most valuable things in life. Thanks to her, we learned a lot about Australian customs, traditions, etiquette, and culture.
The Courses:
Our academic focus at the University of Western Australia was to learn about Australian culture and improve our critical thinking skills. The course was well-structured, and each day began with clear goals and meaningful activities. I met several different teachers, each with their unique personalities and talents, and I learned so much from them. The teachers not only provided engaging lessons about Perth, but we also had the opportunity to see and experience the city firsthand. During our field trips, what we heard in the classroom came to life in what we saw, and for a moment, I felt completely immersed in this romantic city. Many of the assignments required group collaboration, which fostered team spirit and effective division of tasks, allowing us to complete our work successfully. Although I only stayed for three weeks, I could feel myself making progress every day.
Perth:
From the moment I first set foot on this land, I was captivated by its unique charm. Unlike other bustling cities, Perth has a distinctive calmness and allure. We were fortunate to be there during Australia’s National Holiday, Australia Day. We found a perfect spot by the sea, where we enjoyed the sea breeze, a stunning light show, and the Perth Australia Day Fireworks—a truly breathtaking visual experience. With our teachers, we toured the town of Fremantle, visited the prison museum, and tasted the famous fish and chips. In our free time, my friends and I visited Perth Zoo, where we saw a variety of animals. We also took a ferry to Rottnest Island and took pictures with quokkas. On the shores of the Indian Ocean, we enjoyed the intense winds and the endless shades of blue, a dreamlike palette of colors. Here, I truly experienced the meaning of “picturesque”—it felt as though nature had spilled its colors all over the landscape, leaving a scene both lonely and romantic.
But Perth’s charm isn’t just in its natural beauty; it also lies in the warmth of its people. The people of Perth are known for their friendliness and hospitality. No matter the challenge, there was always someone ready to lend a hand.
Walking along the shores of the blue ocean, feeling the fine sand gently slip beneath my feet, every moment here seemed to slow down, allowing me to savor the leisure and tranquility. Perth’s food is not to be missed either—from fresh seafood to authentic Australian BBQ, every bite was a celebration for the taste buds, giving a sense of the land’s unique charm. At night, I would stroll with a few friends by the quiet lakeside, occasionally glancing up at the star-filled sky. Under Perth’s night sky, you realize that romance can be quite simple. Life here is colorful, yet it maintains an inner peace. In Perth, wherever your heart leads, you can follow.
I wanted to remember everything I saw, heard, and felt in Perth: the mountains, the ocean, the breeze, the sunrise, the sunset, the stars, the rainbow… But I worried that my mind might not store everything, so I took pictures along the way, capturing these beautiful experiences in hopes of preserving them just a little longer. I’ve tried my best to describe this city filled with beautiful people and landscapes, but my words fall short of doing it justice. Still, I can sum up my feelings with one simple phrase: I never hesitated before setting out, and I have no regrets after the experience. This study tour was both a journey of learning and a journey of exploration. I feel fortunate to have experienced the beauty and kindness there, and it has become my new goal, motivating me to keep pushing toward my dreams.
--A Student (LIANG)
What I enjoyed most about this trip was my homestay family. They were an incredibly happy family of five. During the first few days, my host mom and the kids were still on holiday, so she kindly drove me to school with her children and even picked me up when I returned home late. Since laundry time was while I was at school, she would also hang my clothes for me. They had adorable cats and rabbits, and the dinners were always hearty and perfectly suited to my taste. They frequently invited me to join their family activities. We went to the park together, explored Fremantle, watched movies, and shared funny stories from our lives around the dinner table. The time spent with them was always so enjoyable, and I found it hard to say goodbye. I really hope to have the chance to meet them again someday.
The courses were overall very interesting, offering insights into Perth’s local culture and visits to several well-known landmarks. In class, the teachers often encouraged us to interact and speak up. The courses also fostered cultural exchange with the locals, giving us a deeper understanding of Australia and the University of Western Australia. The most memorable experience was at the Law Museum, where I got to participate in a mock trial as a judge’s assistant and observe a real courtroom session—it was especially fascinating.
Perth’s scenery is absolutely stunning, and it’s a very livable city with plenty of adorable animals. We were lucky enough to be there during Australia Day, and we got to enjoy a grand fireworks display. My favorite spots were Fremantle and Rottnest Island—the ocean was beautifully blue, the sunsets were breathtaking, and we got to see the cute quokkas. After spending some time in Perth, my daily routine changed. I started going to bed by 8 or 9 PM and waking up at 6 AM, feeling refreshed. School ended by 3 or 4 PM, which gave me plenty of time to explore the city with friends from the study group. This slower pace allowed me to feel especially relaxed and gave me more time to connect with my homestay family.
This journey has been incredibly rewarding. It has made me more open to embracing the world, communicating more with others, and learning new knowledge and cultures.
For the reason of limitation of space, there are too many excellent summaries that cannot be shown. However, we believe that the wonderful moments of the study visit not only exist in words and pictures, but also in the depth of students' memories. The harvests and memories of the visit will always be in the hearts of the students, adding a touch of never-fading color to their life course!
*This is the English translation. In case of any discrepancies, the Chinese version shall prevail.
