Leo Dean, Global Business Institute: Sydney, Spring 2026
When beginning this abroad program, I probably gave myself the worst starting point. I was traveling to the other side of the planet and didn’t know anyone in my program beforehand. I was essentially going in blind. On the second day in Australia during our orientation, they gave us a few pieces of advice, all of which I found to be useful and/or true. Firstly, they said that while 13 weeks may feel intimidating, the program would fly by. I am currently writing this in week 13, and that has absolutely been the case. This was the fastest semester of my life. Secondly, they shared previous students’ advice to future participants: say yes to everything.
What does that really mean in practice—saying “yes” to everything? There are going to be days when you are tired, burnt out, and in need of time to recharge. Take that time. I’m not saying to push past what your body is telling you. But when there is an opportunity to connect with someone, meet someone new, or see a new part of your city—and the easier option is to go home, do nothing, or stick to what you’ve already done—choose the former.
Don’t be afraid to do your own thing either. That might sound like a paradox, but
sometimes you have to say yes to yourself, too. If there’s a neighborhood you really want to visit, or a country or city that’s been on your bucket list but no one else seems as interested, say yes to yourself. Tons of people in my program did solo trips simply because they wanted to. Every weekday, I would go on a solo walk and explore a new area of the city. Next week, after the program ends, I’m going to Hong Kong and then Japan solo because I don’t know if I’ll have the opportunity to be back in this part of the world—though I hope I’m wrong.
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