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Kate Stephens

About My Study Abroad Program

Major/Minor: Exercise & Sport Science
Program: Murdoch University
Location: Perth, Western Australia
Email: katels@unc.edu
Term: Spring 2024

 

Why did you choose to study abroad and how did you select your program?
I chose to study abroad to gain from all that comes with international travel experience including meeting people from all across the world and exploring a new way of life. I selected my specific program to fulfill my dream of circumnavigating the world, embrace the refreshing work-life balance and really take my time with to immerse myself in the Australian lifestyle. I am extremely passionate about health and wellness and hope to become a Certified Personal Trainer and Registered Dietitian. Australians are known for being wellness-oriented and I wanted to live amongst a community of like-minded people!

 

What did you learn about yourself?
I learned that I am quite independent, yet extroverted, and love experiencing new activities and traveling to new places with my people!

 

What is one of your favorite memories from your program?
One of my favorite memories from the program was getting to go on a 10-day road trip with over forty of my fellow exchange/study abroad peers lead by two Aussie tour guides. We covered about 4000 kilometers (about 2500 miles) of ground all along the coast and the outback. Everyone bonded greatly as we camped every night, hiked, snorkeled and had so many amazing adventures!

 

What advice do you have for future study abroad students?
My advice is that with change, there is often uncertainty and that the easier thing (such as not studying abroad) is not always the better option for us. Travelling can help us grow so swiftly in such an ultimately short timeframe. Although it can be scary, it is often more thrilling and rewarding to step out of our comfort zones. It is the best way to evolve and learn about ourselves and other cultures. I can't recommend embracing every day of being abroad enough because, I promise, it will fly by!

 

How do you identify?
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Memories