Making the decision to move overseas to study English is a big one. You are going somewhere unfamiliar. You are surrounded by a new language, culture and people. While you’re away you will miss all sorts of experiences and events with your family, friends and loved ones. That is not only one of the most difficult things to deal with, but often something that students fail to consider. That’s why you want your time away to be truly worthwhile. You want to return home satisfied that you made the most of your time here and not regret how you spent your time, money and energy.
The deadliest trap to fall into, is “Student-Ville”! This means hanging out with international students like you, who speak your language, go to all the places where the students go and make you miss home a little less. For me, that’s a waste. The more challenging, yet far more rewarding path is to dive into life here in Australia. Meet and befriend locals, go to festivals and fetes, find out what events are happening – even the smaller ones – and what their relevance is to this place you are temporarily calling home. In other words, immerse yourself in the culture! Become a part of Australian life.
This is easier said than done, obviously. Native speakers sometimes seem to be elusive creatures, you can see them everywhere, but you can’t seem to catch them. This can be frustrating, but there are ways to make them accessible. There are innumerable groups, teams, meetups, organisations and associations that cater to pretty much every possible interest. A quick google search or joining a Facebook group (BROWNS / Visit Brisbane / Visit Gold Coast) that publicises what’s happening will give you lots of options. You might not make instant friends, but a shared interest will at least give you something to talk about.
The obvious by-product of this is that you’ll be using English the same way as you would your native language. You’ll have the opportunity to use all the language you’ve been learning in class and also be able to hear so much more. Most native speakers are happy to explain new phrases and words to you – it makes them feel like they’re an amazing font of knowledge and they’ll feel good about being able to help you.
Picture yourself in 20 years reflecting back on your time in Australia: what would your future ‘Self’ think of the choices you have made during your time here? Will you be satisfied or regretful?
Written by Bec Hungerford.
(BROWNS teacher)