Last summer, I had a chance to participate in an “Overseas Study Program” organized by Monash College in Australian and MPI. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to MPI for granting me such a precious opportunity. This is the first time that I have lived in a foreign country for a short period of time. Before starting the trip to Australia, I was nervous but also excited, wondering what exciting things would lie ahead.

During those three weeks, I have experienced the dramatic differences in the teaching styles between Australia and Macau. In the classrooms of Australia, there were a lot of interactions in class, and we students were encouraged to involve in all kinds of in-class activities and we even could have some visits to the local government and the immigration museum. Through those visits, I have known more about the history of Australia and the local communities, and also about the reasons why Australia has become a multicultural country.

After taking courses in the GPP program, my overall English proficiency has been significantly improved, especially my knowledge about business English and my presentation skills. In the class, discussions were all conducted in English and we were assigned to difference classes with a good mix of students from Japan. We shared our own experience and culture. Throughout the study tour, what I have learnt the most was the local culture of Australia. It was a pleasant surprise to realize that the local people were willing to start a conversation with me actively even when I was just buying a cup of coffee at the café! I think I have improved my spoken English through these kinds of "small talks" every day.

Furthermore, living with my host family during those three weeks was definitely an unforgettable experience for me. Since the day when they all were standing at the door and waiting for me, and giving me a warm welcome hug, I already knew I would have some wonderful experience with this family. There are six lovely members and three adorable pets in this family. I truly feel really warm and loved. They treated me like their own daughter and took good care of me. My host mother excelled at cooking and she prepared various local cuisines for me every day and my host father always made me a cup of coffee after dinner. We had small talks and interactions every day. I felt excited when I shared everything about Macau to my host family. They reminded me to wear a warm jacket whenever I went out. It was truly memorable and I appreciated their kindness. I remembered once I got lost at night and did not know where I was. My host parents were worried about me. When I finally returned, I realized that they went out to find me from home to home. I cried and apologized to them. They did not blame me but they comforted me instead. I was really glad that I could be a part of this warm family. Undoubtedly, I would not have had such amazing and unforgettable days if it had not been for this family!

During weekends, I explored the city as a visitor with my friends. I was impressed with the stylish and unique buildings of Melbourne, and admiring the street art was one of the popular things to do in Melbourne. As a coffee lover myself, I was really pleased to be able to find a nice little cafe serving nice coffee nearly around every corner and laneway in Melbourne! Aside from that, I also admired the power of nature - Great Ocean Road and iconic Twelve Apostles. Despite the fact that it took six hours to drive there, I thought it was definitely worth visiting when I saw the breathtaking view. Moreover, I visited the Phillip Island where I could see the adorable and wild penguins landing. At the Victoria Market, there were a lot of fresh seafood such as oyster and prawn, and I could buy many special souvenirs in the morning. But at night, it became a night market where crocodile, kangaroo and emu meat was sold. All these are really good and amazing experiences and feeling that I have never had before.

"The weather was cold but the people were warm." I think this line is the best description of Melbourne. Last but not least, the exchange program has given a tremendous opportunity to improve my English and expanded my horizons and world view! I have learned to be a more independent person and this program and meaningful journey has enriched my life.