Study Abroad in the Place Down Under!

                  Mikaela's Minute:

What You Need to Know About Australia!

 

If you are considering studying abroad in Australia then you have picked a pretty stunning and awesome location. Australia is a great country to go to if you are getting your feet wet in the international travel game. Australia is quite similar to the United States, being that it was also originally a colony of Britain. Australia is a progressive democratic country that was built on similar foundations to the US. There are some differences between Australian and American culture, so I have created this guide to ensure that you know how to communicate properly in your new host country!

 

Language:

 

You really don't have to worry about learning a new language in order to travel to Australia because, guess what, Australia is an English speaking country. There are linguistic differences between Australian English and American English so beware. To the Australians you will have an accent and vice versa. The slang words that you use may or may not translate, as both countries have their own respective dialects. If you keep an open mind you will quickly come to understand the vernacular differences of Australia and use them properly.

 

Dress:

 

As far as dress is concerned, dress as you normally would. There are no real dress restrictions in Australian culture so long as you dress appropriately and respectfully. Oh, but something to note is that the seasons that we are used to (winter in December and summer in July) will be reversed from what you are used to. Just something to keep in mind when packing your bags!

 

Food:

 

The food will be fairly similar to the United States (meaning that if you absolutely can't find anything you can go to the supermarket and get some food that you would actually like to eat). In Australia today the food culture is as culturally diverse as America. Its main focus is Asian and Island dishes, however there are many other types of food available. There are many national dishes native to Australia that, if you are an adventurous eater, you should try. Just click the link below to learn about 40 of Australia's top native dishes: http://travel.cnn.com/sydney/eat/40-foods-australians-call-their-own-651613

 

History:

 

As I have previously stated, Australia was formerly a British Colony, a colony for convicts that started during the 1790's. But before that Australia was home to nearly one million Aboriginal people who came to Australia during the last ice age. The British quickly conquered the Aboriginal people and nearly killed them all from disease alone. By 1820, many emancipated convicts, soldiers, and officers had moved to Australia and established themselves as independent peoples. They began to work towards independence from Britain and on January 1st, 1901 Australia became an independent nation. Australia has a rich history, especially that of the Aboriginal people. The Aboriginal population is very small, but their culture is often represented in the dominant culture of Australia. When you go to Australia, it would do you well to learn about the original people as well as "modern" Australian history.

 

Religion:

 

Australia is a largely Christian nation, with 64% of the population identifying themselves as such. Despite having such a large percent of the population of the same faith, Australia as a country has no state religion. Instead, they practice religious tolerance and openness. You should feel comfortable practicing your own faith, or lack thereof, without interference. You should also guard against being prejudice to people of other religions. Be open an honest to others about what you feel, but take care to not disrespect others for their opinions and beliefs.

 

Social Issues:

 

As we all know, no country or place is perfect. Each place has its own issues, for Australia these issues are few and far between. Australia's issues actually closely mimic the United States. Australia has issues with alcoholism, sexual assault, bullying, gambling, and reducing violence. Many of these problems take place at the individual level, so you shouldn't be afraid to travel. Compared to many other study abroad destinations Australia is one of the safest places. Yes, the same issues that you are likely to encounter in America you can counter in Australia, but you will be just as safe as you are in America.  

 

Knowing what you do now about Australia, I hope that you feel a little bit more comfortable travelling to study abroad in Australia. When you go abroad, put yourself out there. Be respectful when you communicate and your respect will respect will be reciprocated. Have a good trip and study hard!