2024 Summer - Sharing of Study Tour Experience at the University of Sydney (Excerpt)
- Student Wang
“Go see the world,” I thought before setting out. Now, sitting on the flight back home and looking back at the past month, I can nod confidently and say, “It was all worth it.”
Inclusivity was the first lesson I learned here. Australia is a diverse country, and Sydney, as one of its most famous cities, is no exception. To quote a line from the movie Tenet, which I just finished watching on the plane: “Try to feel it, not understand it.” When you set foot on this land, only then can you truly experience everything it has to offer.
Confidence was the second lesson I learned here. After leaving my familiar surroundings, I realized that I could accomplish so many things even in a completely unfamiliar environment! I am really more capable than I thought! Confidence is not something you're born with, and even if you are, it needs to be maintained through constant encouragement and affirmation. I’m especially grateful to my two professors at the University of Sydney, Mark and Audrey. They constantly encouraged me to speak more, do more, and gave me positive feedback, which provided a lot of emotional support. As I became more confident and dared to communicate, my English improved, which in turn made me even more confident—a very positive cycle.
Creative thinking was the third lesson I learned here. What an important skill! In fact, I’ve always had it, but over time it has been stifled by cumbersome processes and external negativity, causing me to become more passive and lose confidence in this ability. This time, I’m determined to stick to my own ideas. There’s more than one path in life, and I am the only answer. Don’t let the major I chose four years ago during the college entrance exam dictate my life trajectory. People shouldn’t set limits on themselves. Who says a doctor can’t also be a musician, a chef, a bartender, or an adventurer? We also shouldn’t place limits on others. In my mind, a good educator should give students unconditional and full support (although saying this, I feel like I’m also setting limits for others, but I don’t have that right), rather than trying to mold someone into a specific person. Everyone has their own unique path, and no one’s success can be perfectly replicated. Copying someone else’s life and walking their path is meaningless. The world needs diversity, not homogeneity. Homogeneity will only be forgotten by the world, while what is special is worth remembering.
Financial awareness was the fourth lesson I learned here. The cost of living in Australia is high; a simple meal can easily cost around 100 RMB. Many items we take for granted in the small commodity markets of Yiwu become much more expensive in Australia. This made me start quietly observing how Australians make a living and how they earn their money.
Relaxation was the fifth lesson I learned here. Living in the fast-paced environment back home, it’s hard for one’s mind to truly relax. But chasing after a “relaxed feeling” can also become counterproductive. During the first-week test at the University of Sydney, I wrote in my essay about how surprised I was by the relaxed attitude of people here: it’s hard to imagine that someone can just sit at a café table, order a cup of coffee, and simply enjoy the afternoon sunshine, rather than always trying to accomplish something. The professor’s comment next to my essay was: “I agree, not everything needs to mean something.”
Along this journey, I’ve gained some wonderful friendships and experienced many surprising encounters. This will be a particularly memorable and cherished period of my life!
- Student Zhou
When I learned that the flight to Australia would take eight or nine hours, and after experiencing an additional eight-hour flight delay, I realized deeply that this study tour would definitely become an unforgettable memory in my life. As I now embark on the journey back home and reflect on this learning experience, the answer resonates even more strongly!
1. A Temple of Learning, A Feast of Knowledge
Stepping onto the campus of the University of Sydney, every building seemed to tell a story of past glory and present prosperity. Walking through each corner of the campus, I saw strangers working diligently on their computers, completing their studies, and the air felt filled with a thirst for knowledge. Everyone was exploring the ocean of knowledge in their own way. This atmosphere made me deeply appreciate the truth in the saying, "There is no end to learning, and hard work is the boat that sails the sea of knowledge."
In the classroom, the professors, with their profound academic expertise, cutting-edge research, and engaging teaching styles, led us in exploring the unknown boundaries of our fields. I still remember the first week when a Chinese teacher, living in Australia, taught us. On the first day, we were introduced to the local culture, landscapes, and customs of “Aussie” life in a lighthearted and pleasant way. It was also the first time I opened the door to the world of advanced technologies, such as physics and capacitor voltage, through an English version. For the first time, I strongly felt how omnipresent the Internet of Things is in our daily lives. We engaged in brainstorming sessions, connected these concepts to our own field of study, and created IOT projects related to our major. It was also the first time I introduced myself in English and engaged in daily conversations and communication.
The second week was taught by foreign teachers, and this was when we fully experienced communication in pure English. During this week, we not only watched videos in Australian English to practice reading comprehension but also revisited English tenses and voice. The teacher used games and other engaging methods, blending various approaches, allowing us to run, recall, and write simultaneously. It truly allowed us to "learn while playing." We also became more immersed in the Australian culture, diving into Australian proverbs and dialects. We matched famous landmarks with their English names and even learned how to write postcards to people we missed. Whether it was the insightful theoretical explanations or the thought-provoking case studies, I truly felt the charm and rigor of academic research.
2. Cultural Integration and Broadening Horizons
During these two weeks of study, Linda shared her experiences of studying in Australia with us, explaining how she overcame her own challenges, from “they don’t want to talk to me” to being able to invite a group of friends to her house for her birthday. From lacking confidence and courage to becoming brave, confident, and positive, her fluent English no longer shows any signs of the struggles she once faced. I believe that this transformation came from her relentless effort and willingness to change, to face her own shortcomings, which is an incredibly valuable lesson for me.
I consider myself an outgoing person, but I often lack confidence in my spoken English and am afraid of making mistakes. One day, Linda shared the story of Rabbit-Proof Fence with us and invited students to present a simple reflection on it. Linda noticed how attentively I had been reading and chose me to answer. I responded with the most fitting keywords that came to mind, and she affirmed my answer. She then encouraged me not to be afraid of speaking English or making mistakes. With her encouragement, I felt less burdened by my concerns about spoken English and became more relaxed.
Linda also invited two Ph.D. students from the University of Sydney to give presentations. They shared their journeys of studying in a foreign country and their attitudes toward their respective fields of study. In their presentations, which were casual yet slightly nervous, I could feel their passion for their disciplines. I was inspired by their enthusiasm and touched by their professionalism. Their presentations not only gave me a deeper understanding of their academic fields but also made me realize the importance of passion and perseverance in personal growth. Passion is a deep and lasting emotion that drives us to set out on a journey with curiosity and continue to discover along the way!
3. The Bridge of Friendship, The Bond of Emotion
During our time at the University of Sydney, we adapted to a busy yet fulfilling routine and discovered many different rhythms and habits. Here, time seemed to slow down, allowing us to occasionally take things at a gentler pace and savor each moment of life. We learned that there was no need to always be tense or apologize for every little mistake. Instead, we could relax more and take in everything around us. This freedom and ease made us feel an unprecedented sense of relaxation and joy.
Moreover, I made a group of like-minded friends. We studied and discussed together, sharing many unforgettable moments. These friendships, like shining stars, adorn the sky of my life and have become valuable treasures. Every time I recall this experience, my heart fills with warmth and gratitude. It was these friends who made me feel the warmth of home in a foreign land. This bond made my study tour even more vibrant and colorful.
We cooked meals together, explored the streets and alleys of Sydney, transforming from strangers to friends and eventually becoming like family to each other in a foreign country. I often say that once we arrived in Sydney, we became a family who supports and helps one another, and this turned out to be true. During this study tour, we encouraged and affirmed each other, unlocking many “firsts” together. Some friends became leaders for the first time, some cooked for the first time, others acted as tour guides for the first time, some tried swimming for the first time, others tried saunas or outdoor BBQs for the first time. With every new attempt, there was a group of friends offering support and encouragement from behind, so there was no need to worry about being alone. We dared to try and bravely pushed beyond our limits. Every “first” was a challenge and a triumph over ourselves!
- Student Zhang
On the first day in Australia, my friends and I tried ordering food in English and communicating with locals. We shopped for daily essentials at Coles supermarket, where every shelf was labeled in English. To find what we needed, we had to ask for help from locals, trying our best to express our thoughts using the limited English vocabulary we had. This was our first time speaking English after arriving here, and although we made a lot of mistakes, we also learned a lot. The process was quite interesting, not as dull as typical English listening exercises. It reminded me of the English dialogue passages in elementary school textbooks, but this time they came to life. In this unfamiliar new environment, my friends and I embraced the challenges with excitement and anticipation.
In the days that followed, we immersed ourselves in an intense and fulfilling academic atmosphere. For the first time, I had to present my views on the Internet of Things in English, combining my professional knowledge to share new ideas. We actively participated in class activities, worked hard to express our opinions, and seized every opportunity to practice speaking English. Standing on the podium, all my nervousness transformed into confidence. The experience shared by a senior from the math department was particularly enlightening, as he guided us through the problem of counting rings. His explanation made complex mathematical logic both interesting and easy to understand.
Of course, the study tour wasn't limited to the classroom. We wandered the streets of Newtown, soaking in the unique charm of the city. We took a thrilling aerial cable car ride and rode the 52-degree incline train at a mine site. We admired the natural beauty of the Blue Mountains and traveled by train and ferry to take in the view of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. We sat in front of the Sydney Opera House watching the sunset, lay on the grass in Hyde Park soaking up the sun, and enjoyed delicious ice cream in the small town of Leura. We saw parrots, seagulls, and ibis birds everywhere and strolled along Bondi Beach, feeling the sand and waves. We experienced the rich academic and cultural atmosphere of the University of Sydney, enjoyed an Australian BBQ outdoors, and wandered through streets after getting lost, unexpectedly stumbling upon beautiful scenery. We even met friends from other countries and exchanged our thoughts and experiences with them in English. Every corner of the city bears the traces of our footsteps.
As the study tour drew to a close, we had our final presentations and farewell dinner. Although the course had ended, the teachers' encouraging words stayed with me: “Don't worry about making mistakes, that's okay.” These words inspire me to face the unknown challenges of the future with courage.
The Sydney study tour has been over for several days now, but I look at the photos we took there every day, as if doing so allows me to briefly return to those wonderful times. My heart is filled with both gratitude and longing. This study tour in Sydney not only taught me cutting-edge technology but also allowed me to experience the charm of a foreign culture and the warmth of its people. It will remain a valuable memory in my life’s journey.
- Student Pan
Looking back on my "Sailing Abroad" study tour, my heart is filled with endless emotions and gains. It was my first time stepping out of the country, and my feelings were a mixture of anxiety, nervousness, anticipation, and excitement. I was as excited as a schoolchild on a spring field trip, barely able to sleep. I knew that this was not just a simple trip but a brave step into an unknown world, full of both excitement and unease about what lay ahead.
Throughout the study tour, we experienced countless unforgettable moments. From cautiously paying for items in English in a foreign environment to feeling lost and helpless while navigating Google Maps; from panting while chasing a bus to the small surprise of getting a free train ride; from a leisurely city walk to the thrilling experience of riding the 52-degree incline train at a mine site; from the cultural exchanges during conversations with elderly locals to the homesickness felt when eating instant noodles late at night while watching Chinese Restaurant; from the embarrassment of using an ironing board to dry clothes—each scene became a unique memory for us. However, what warmed my heart the most was the deep friendship between my classmates, teammates, and our accompanying teacher. In this foreign land, we supported each other with unity and kindness. When I felt homesick, Linda’s stories about her own study-abroad experience deeply resonated with me, and the companionship and encouragement from my peers made me feel less lonely and helpless. This friendship was like the warm sun in winter, bringing comfort to my heart.
In addition to the professional courses, I also learned about Australian culture and the linguistic differences between countries. In our Australian culture class, we delved into the country's history, arts, and social customs, which made me respect and appreciate the beauty of multiculturalism even more. In the course on linguistic differences across various countries, I discovered the subtle variations in English spoken in different parts of the world. This keen awareness of language nuances boosted my confidence in international communication.
Beyond the academic learning, I was deeply attracted to the vibrant learning environment at the University of Sydney. After classes, some students would head to the study rooms, others would discuss assignments in the lounges, some would socialize, and some would enjoy reading leisurely on the grass. Everyone was full of confidence, positivity, and energy, readily sharing and praising each other. This uplifting spirit deeply inspired me. I aspire to one day be like them, freely exploring the ocean of knowledge and savoring the joy of learning.
This study tour opened my eyes to a different world, gave me valuable knowledge and experiences, and introduced me to like-minded friends. It made me grow and helped me become braver in facing the challenges of the unknown. I believe this experience will be a precious asset in my life, motivating me to keep moving forward. I am grateful for this encounter, which has made my life richer and more colorful. No matter where I go in the future, the memories of this study tour will always be with me, shining brightly as one of the most cherished stars on my life journey.
- Student Zou
First of all, the world is vast, and the exploration never stops. This study tour not only provided us with ample free time to explore the local culture and scenery but also invited an alumna who studied and worked in Sydney to introduce us to Australia’s historical development, stunning geographical landscapes, and regional cultural differences. She also accompanied us on an excursion to the Blue Mountains and participated in a local BBQ activity. This was a wonderful learning journey for me, as it was my first time traveling abroad to study. Flying across the equator and arriving in Sydney during winter, I experienced the sunset at 5 p.m., and by 7 p.m., the streets were much quieter compared to the bustling scenes in Guangzhou, as most people had already gone home. However, by 6 a.m., even in the dim morning light, the streets were busy with traffic, and by 7 a.m., you could always spot young people jogging or cycling, or familiar faces walking their dogs. Their lives appeared relaxed yet orderly.
What left a deep impression on me, and something I found quite appealing, was the sight of various birds walking freely on the streets, foraging for food, and flying through the crowds. Every now and then, one would fly right past you. I saw birds such as white ibises, pigeons, seagulls, sparrows, cockatoos, and kookaburras.
It is worth mentioning the cultural diversity of Australia. Mark and Audrey introduced us to this aspect during our Academic English course, and the alumna also shared her insights during our discussion. We experienced it firsthand while strolling through the streets. The perfect combination of time, place, and people seems to be fully realized on Australian soil. Almost every day in Sydney, I could see rainbows. They appeared everywhere—whether looking up at the sky, down at a fountain, or across the streets and lawns. Rainbows were ubiquitous. Australia's culture, much like its rainbows, is vibrant and colorful. People of different religious beliefs, races, languages, and orientations coexist in harmony. It’s truly a diverse, inclusive, and open country.
In class, we were often divided into different groups for discussions or creative projects, and we had to present our group’s outcomes on stage. Time after time, with each presentation, we gradually became more confident and open. It wasn’t because our English suddenly improved, but rather because we became confident in expressing ourselves in English. I believe this is an important key to unlocking English learning. I’m very grateful for this opportunity, which placed us in an English-speaking environment, encouraging us to express ourselves boldly in English and improve along the way.
Apart from studying and exploring, another major takeaway was experiencing apartment life. When we left our parents and formed a small household with four classmates, cooking became a significant challenge. During the first few days in Sydney, we ate out, spending about 30 to 50 AUD per person each day. The cost of eating out was a bit high, so we decided to turn to the kitchen at home, even though I was a complete novice in the kitchen.
From then on, most of the time, we managed to cook using just three seasonings—salt, butter, and black pepper—and three cooking tools—a pan, oven, and microwave. We successfully cooked and grilled steaks, basa fish, prawns, swordfish, roasted potatoes, boiled corn, and more. While the food didn’t taste amazing, it was edible. This experience greatly improved our life skills and was a valuable learning experience.
---The story will continue---
*This is the English translation. In case of any discrepancies, the Chinese version shall prevail.
