Blog: Moving on and Moving Strong: Flying into the Unfamiliar
Leaving the familiar is always a difficult thing to do. One has to take a leap of faith and brave obstacles, to push away the sadness and flash a convincing smile, and to be open and ready to discover what is to unfold.
I knew this and I prepared myself for the unfamiliar; but I guess one can never be absolutely ready for the adventure of studying in Australia.
Independence was one of the key reasons why I decided to study in Sydney for my masters. I was granted a chance to study at the famous “castle on the hill” – the International College of Management, Sydney. Granted that I would eventually rent out a flat, I was still anxious of settling in and getting around the city. As such, I opted to sign-up with the Australian Homestay Network, who then graciously sent in a profile of a Welsh family, whose home was just 40 minutes away from my school.
I became more excited to venture out of the Philippines with the assurance of having a comfortable residence on my first month. True enough, I was granted a lovely room with my own entrance, access to the kitchen, and, most importantly, a tight-knit family.
On my first week in Australia, Derek, Cat, Cai, Deian, and Sara epitomized a well-balanced family. On weekdays, they had soccer and bonded after school while on weekends, it was a visit to the beach or the mall. They were also a healthy bunch and thus influenced me to eventually become more involved with my own family while becoming more conscious of what I eat.
First day of exploration in the City: Sydney Harbour Bridge
Groceries were made more convenient and affordable with Cat’s directions, among other things she was able to teach me. The best advice they gave me was regarding the bus and timetables, as I was eager to explore Sydney especially on my first month. Luckily, we were in an area where there were direct buses to the city, Chatswood, Warringah Mall, and the City. It was indeed a perfect starting place for a curious girl.
In a span of less than 30 days, I was able to visit tourist sites such as the Sydney Opera House, ICC, and Manly beach. I got to try various cuisines both in the City and Manly. And I got to bond with my friends who were either visiting or already residing in Australia. Everyday was truly an adventure and having a homestay family just made my experience more convenient.
It’s always great to meet fellow Filipinos at school
Despite some triggers of homesickness, Sydney has truly become home. The views have been breathtaking, the people have been so friendly and warm, and the environment has made me feel safe and secure.
In saying all these, I know that I wouldn’t have my life in any other way. Though I literally flew into the unfamiliar, I was able to become wiser and more responsible in just a month. I left the Philippines, filled with inquisitiveness and apprehension; but each day living in Sydney has left me with more excitement and thrill of what is to come. Jumpstarting my Australian adventure with a homestay family was definitely a right decision and I cannot wait what the next 23 months of living on my own will bring this time.
