Submitted by Megan Gewert on the 2024 Winter NURS program in Sydney, Australia…
I’m not going to lie, the thought of being 20 hours from home is scary. I had my fair share of nerves when on my final leg of travel to Sydney, Australia for the winter 2024 semester. There are 15 people on this trip and all of us are a part of the NURS Sydney, Australia program. With such a small group, it was easy to get to know everyone. With about 3 weeks in Australia, we had a jam packed schedule ahead of us.
Week 1 gave me so much insight into the healthcare system here in Australia. As a group we visited the Sydney Eye Hospital, the MINT, and Royal Prince Alfred Hospital. We were able to meet with various individuals in the healthcare system who were able to show us what they do each day. A huge emphasis of this abroad experience is comparing and contrasting the Australian healthcare system to the United States. A significant difference that I noticed was how healthcare isn’t completely privatized; rather it is a combination of both public and private services. As nurses, it is eye opening to see how other countries work in terms of their health services.
Not only did we get to see Australia’s healthcare system but we were also able to gain insight on Australian culture. On the first night, the group had a welcome dinner where we were given the chance to try kangaroo (a delicacy in Australia!). Over the course of the week we learned about the British settlement in Australia through guided tours. On the other hand, we also heard the aboriginal perspective of British settlement in Australia. Both stories were completely different and served as a unique contrast. One of my favorite days during the first week was visiting the Walkabout Wildlife Park. The group was introduced to various species of animals and got to directly interact with kangaroos and emus! During our trip here we also took a walk through the bush and viewed original aboriginal art.
While week 1 in Sydney comes to a close, I am eager to see what week 2 has to offer! Being in Australia has taught me about a culture that is so diverse and that has so much to offer. I have learned so much in just a few days and cannot wait to see what comes next! (Submitted on January 24, 2024)
