Adventures From Down Under

Medical Insurance Abroad

2011-06-17T16:54:00.031-07:00

I'm going to Australia again. Yes again! This time for just a week.

As I'm making travel arrangements I've decided it might be a good idea to get medical insurance for abroad. (Keeping in mind I said medical and not travel). The first time I went insurance was mandatory (though in retrospect I didn't even look into the details of the plan,; I just bought it because I had to). The second time around it didn't even cross my mind. But because recently (as in a year ago) I had to cancel travel plans due to a broken hip I thought it would be a good idea to invest in some insurance. Unfortunately I didn't proactively begin searching for it until way after I bought my airlines ticket. It was then I discovered most (as in all) travel insurance requires purchase of the insurance within a certain time frame IF you want pre-existing condition covered. This means, if you want the insurance to cover you at all pretty much (because I'm sure when you file a claim they will try to find a way why your illness abroad is related to your pre-existing condition), you have to buy the insurance before or quite quickly after you've purchased your most expensive travel expense (i.e. plane ticket or hotel). By the time I began looking into plans the window had passed. I called many places and looked at many travel insurance websites and they all said the same thing, "No." But I am a persistent kind of person. I don't take 'no' for an answer. I am a strong believer in "Where there is a will there is a way." And therefore I continue spending hours searching online for hope.

Eventually I began just looking at resources for those with disabilities who want to travel. I stumbled across this article from MIUSA: http://www.miusa.org/ncde/tipsheets/insurance. I followed that link to: https://www.insuremytrip.com/index.html

There I did a search of prices and plans. I found a plan with HM Life Insurance Company and the plan is called TravelGap Excursion. If you are anything like me, I was very skeptical. It sounded too good to be true given that all other plans said, "no." This insurance plan will cover you when you are abroad IF you already have insurance in the USA. It will cover you if you have pre-existing condition as long as it is not pregnancy or a mental illness (or elective medical assistance). It will ONLY cover medical. Therefore, if I do need to cancel my trip, for any reason, I will not receive refunds on airline tickets or hotel. As much as that sucks, I was much more concern about possible health issues abroad and not wanting to pay thousands of dollars in medical bills.

So my advice to you, buy travel insurance before airline and/or hotel or other travel expenses. Then you don't have to worry like I did. BUT if you have already purchased travel expenses and your concern is medical abroad, check out TravelGap Excursion plan. The other plans listed at insuremytrip.com were like the other plans I had saw about pre-existing conditions. You can call insuremytrip.com and speak to someone to get your questions answered. I began reading the policy and got confused. I was able to speak to a representative with insuremytrip.com and she answered all my questions. She was patient and not annoyed that I asked her the same question multiple times. It was the skeptic in me who couldn't believe it would only cost $15. The HM Life Insurance company and insuremytrip.com are both BBB certified. I read reviews from BBB on insuremytrip.com and there were two complaints filed with BBB on them but there was also one customer review which was very positive. It reflected my experience with insuremytrip.com thus far.

However, the skeptic in me is still hesitant. I plan on reading through the 17 pages on the plan. I'll report back if I see red flags. AND hopefully I don't have to test out how good the insurance is when I'm aboard!

I hope you find this information useful. As always, please feel free to contact me via email if you have questions amanda.parkman@gmail.com and I will try to answer your questions as best as I can.

Updated: I read through the 17 pages of the 'Certificate of Coverage' and everything seems to be on the up and up. I was a bit confused about the use of "0 months" under pre-existing clause but I called the Customer Service number for HTH Worldwide Insurance Services and spoke to a representative and he assured me, that there was no pre-existing conditions limitations what-so-ever on the plan.

One red flag though: Those with Medicare might run into some issues. I would recommend talking to a representative about their exception in the 'Certificate of Coverage' about those with Medicare.

Important points about the insurance:

1. Its medical not travel

2. You need to have insurance in the US

3. Will not cover mental or pregnancy medical treatment (unless the pregnancy medical treatment needed is unexpected/emergency).

And as already stated if traveling abroad and you have a pre-existing condition (and even those who don't!) I strongly recommend getting insurance and purchasing it before your travel expenses i.e. airline tickets, hotel, etc.

Returning to Australia

2009-10-12T20:47:00.000-07:00

I apologize for not keeping this blog updated. I haven’t had a chance to do much traveling since my first experience to Australia. However, I did want to update about my last visit to Australia. This past summer I went back to the beautiful land down under to visit friends.

I also made my way down to Melbourne. I have to say it is now one of my favorite cities! I went by myself for a whole week and did perfectly fine.

The city is very tourist friendly and accessible! For instance, there is a shuttle service that will take you from the city into Southern Cross train station (which is in the city). From there the shuttle service will take you to your hotel/hostel. All the busses from the airport to Southern Cross are accessible and they have a smaller accessible bus that will take you to your hotel or hostel. Just an F.Y.I there are TWO airports that fly into Melbourne. One flies closer to the city than the other. Also, the shuttle service is only available from the one I flew into. If you fly Qantas you will have no worries because Qantas only flies into the one airport, the airport with the shuttle service. The shuttle service buses are red. For some reason the name is escaping me at this moment however it is very popular so I am sure all you have to do is ask around. Or you can always contact me via email and I can dig up my ticket. The shuttle service is not free. But it is inexpensive. You can pay for a returning trip too.

I stayed at Melbourne YHA. LOVED IT. It was new and accessible. They were very kind in asking my feedback, as I was the first person in a wheelchair since its remodeling to stay there. I felt it was quiet accessible.
As I said Melbourne is a tourist friendly and accessible city. They have this free tourist bus. All the free tourist buses are accessible. However, they only stop at certain places and only go in one direction. They do however go to all the major tourist spots in Melbourne. It was great for me because I was not sure what I wanted to see.

There are some hilly places around Melbourne but for the most part the sidewalks are nice. The city is easy to get around. Most things are in a central location.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or concerns. I would love to help you with your upcoming travels.

My email address is amanda.parkman@gmail.com

I also went to NYC. Anyone planning a trip there and want some advice just contact me. I found the city much less accessible. It helped that I had a friend who went with me. Less accessible in that not all the sidewalks were nice and there were many places with a step up into it. However, I still had a fantastic time and it is definitely a place everyone should go to once.

Upcoming Travels...

2009-01-23T23:59:00.001-07:00

Ok, so this coming Spring Break I am going to NEW YORK CITY with my best friend! To say I'm excited is an understatement. As with my trip to Australia I started planning in advance. I'll keep you posted with helpful hits etc that I found on my travels...one thing to keep in mind not many of the hostels in NYC are wheelchair accessible. At least not the ones at awesome locations.

ANNND...I plan on going back to Australia this summer. I'm pumped. I miss Australia everyday. This time though I plan on actually doing some traveling. I'm looking into wheelchair accessible tours. Again, I'll keep you posted.

Black Opal

2008-09-26T19:43:00.002-07:00

So I was thinking that since this blog is posted on the Blue Chip website I should give some more information about being part of Black Opal. First, let me tell you that everyone in Black Opal is so nice and welcoming. Particpating in the Black Opal exchange was one of my favorite experiences as a Blue Chip member.

As a Black Opal member I particpated in their Phase II group which is equivalent to Blue Chip's Phase II and Phase III groups. Black Opal only has three phases, as Uni there is usually just three years. Like Blue Chip, Black Opal has different groups you can be part of in Phase II. I was in Global.

One of my first experiences with Black Opal was the Diversity Camp. It took place during UOWs Easter Break. Its a three day camp. Actually, Black Opal does a Phase camp each year for each phase. I don't want to give away to much about the camp because its one of thoes experiences you gain more as you experience it. But the camp was one of my favorite experiences studying abroad. I made so many friends during that time. Plus you get to see some of the beauty that is Australia.

Much like with Blue Chip, Black Opal teams have weekly meetings. For Phase II each week a different topic is discussed and debated that is related to your theme. For example being in Global we did discussions and learned about such topics like poverty. Which I know is discussed in America as well but you get to see it in a perspective of your peers who live in another country. Part of Phase II is to put on a campus and community project. Our team decided to target the problem of lack of clean water in many developing countries. For our campus project we fundraised and educated fellow UOW students on this important problem. We raised over $600. This sess my team is doing Walk4Water as their community project. They are getting community of Wollongong together for a walk (like AIDS Walk) to raise money to help bring clean water to East Timor.

I met so many passionate, commited, and bright leaders by being part of Black Opal. It gave me the opportunity to learn about issues that I didn't even consider before. I gained understanding of different perspectives on many diverse issues and topics. All the while I gained first hand experiences of leadership through the campus project.

If you have any more questions about Black Opal Exchange please do not hesitate to contact me. My email is aparkman@email.arizona.edu

The Last Blog

2008-06-23T13:48:00.004-07:00

So this is it. My last blog in Australia. Reflection time.

I write this, the morning of my departure. I didn't get much sleep last night. A mixture of reasons.

For the past couple of days now it feels like everything has been coming in full circle. Songs that haven't been sang since the start were sang again. Things we used to do but hadn't in awhile were being done again. People quickly in masses leaving. Leaving the campus in the same atmosphere as I had arrived. Even as I type this I hear the familiar sounds of birds. The sounds I heard the first morning here.

I cannot find the words to express just how I feel. It isn't even torn anymore...more like bittersweet if anything. Its just I'm not ready to leave. I love it here way to much. I've grown to attach. So much so that every time I've tried to go to sleep here for over a week now; all I could think about is how soon I could come back and for how long. As if I needed to assure myself before I could go to sleep that I would be back.

At this moment, there are two important life lessons, that come to mind that I've learned while in Australia...

Quality is better than quantity.
That it all really is to short to dwell on the negative. Forgive and focus on the positive.

Saying my Goodbyes

2008-06-19T08:01:00.002-07:00

And so it begins, the process of letting go.

By far this has been and will be the hardest goodbye I have ever made in my life. The process started to day as people slowly trickle out of my life.

As I've been saying to everyone here...I'm not leaving them, they are leaving me. Most people are done with exams and are now heading home for the break. I don't leave till this coming Tuesday. By then very few people will be around. By then I will have said goodbye to people that I never imaged meeting in my life but that my life is now all that much better because of them.

I haven't cried yet and I don't know if I will. I'm not much of a crier when it comes to goodbyes. I tend to just get a heavy heart.

These past few days have been even more amazing by the fact that I've been able to enjoy everyone's company one last time. I did movie day with Stefan. Afternoon hang outs with Katherine, Lewis, and Tom. And of course nights out. Yesterday was my last Glassy's...well not last last (at least I hope not), but last for at least another year.

I've decided with much determination that I will return here this time next year. It may seem silly to spend money on a airplane ticket, to see a place I've already seen instead of going some place new. But Australia has officially become my other home. Not returning here seems much more silly than not.

I've been in the process of packing for the last couple of days as well. However, I still have yet set in stone how I'm getting to the airport. haha. See much Australia has already changed me? I'm usually a planner. These kind of very important details I normally have worked out months in advance.

End of Uni and My 21st!

2008-06-14T19:13:00.005-07:00

I don't even know where to start...

Uni is finally over for me. I took my last exam this past Friday. It still has yet to hit me that Exams are over, I just turned 21, and I have to leave soon.

My Planet Earth exam was difficult...I wanted to say...a b*$#%.... Considering how much I studied for it I feel uneasy on how well I actually did and should have done. Whatever. It is over. My Cold War/Vietnam exam was a piece of cake. Although I will cry if I find out I actually did horrid on it.

My birthday celebration began Wednesday night with a night at Glassy's with Emma. It was amazing night. ;)

Then Friday I went to Sydney to get meet with Lindsey. Emma came with and we went to Patty's market to go shopping. I'm in love with Patty's market. It is the best place ever for souvenir shopping but also any thing else your heart could ever want. No joke. I got so much stuff for such a great deal.

I've also ready decided I'll pack of the things I collected here in a suitcase and just send some clothes home via the post office. Should some of my clothes get lost I can just use it as a reason to buy some more. haha.

So back to Friday...after Patty's market (which if you ever come to Australia...DO NOT buy any souvenirs any where BUT Patty's market. You'll regret it because you'll go to the market and see everything you already bought at prices that will make you think you're dreaming and then want to cry for spending so much money already).

After Patty's market we headed around St. George Street looking for food. We ended up at Mamma's kitchen. Can I say...good food. We were surprised. Oh and I swear every time I got to Sydney I always find an excuse for needing hot guys to lift me. There were two steps to get into Mamma's kitchen so I had to of the waiters help me in. :)

After dinner it was to Cheers for a drink. Then to Baskin Robins for my favorite...mint chocolate chip. By that point we were ready to go home.

We had an interesting experience at Central. Advice: Do not ride trains in/around Sydney on Friday/Saturday nights. At least have a group of friends and always be aware of what is going on. Luckily I had Emma, Lindsey, and my pepper spray. Not that I needed to use my pepper spray but yeah there were a few interesting characters out.

Saturday Lindsey and I spent the day at the mall getting our nails done and then to North Wollongong Beach for lunch. Good day.

Saturday night was spent getting ready, eating at Nam's and dancing at Glassy's. Good birthday. No doubt one of my best birthday's ever.

I esp. have to say a BIG THANK YOU to all my friends who came out even though they still have a few exams to go. You guys are amazing. xoxo

Here's to being 21.

It still hasn't hit me.

Now its time to relax, enjoy Australia, and pack. :) Oh and figure out how I'm getting to the airport....lol

Study Week

2008-06-05T10:06:00.002-07:00

So I'm liking this whole getting a week to study before exams. However, I wish I could say I have been taking full of advantage of it. I'm seriously lucky if I clock in three or more hours. Actually, no I always clock in three hours. I'm lucky if its ever more than that. Which is fusterating me so much. I have all this time to be able to study for just two exams and I'm not taking as much advantage of it as I could or should. Though I must say a girl can only read about rocks for so long.

Its been ridicules, no joke, non-stop raining for several days now. I was reading my past blogs and last time the weather was this horrible was during mid-session too. I think it knows when exams and stress is upon us and has decided to make the atmosphere fit everyone's moods. It does make being inside easier to cope with but it always makes people feel low. Well it make me feel low. It makes me unproductive. The days I haven't gone to Uni to study I haven't gotten up till 11am. It is 3am right now here and I have yet to fallen asleep. This is not good consider I'm suppose to be going to Uni tomorrow...to study...9am.

Oh and just a word of advice, which I know you won't follow, and shouldn't...but I'll say it anyway...try to stay away from boys when you study abroad. They're just horrible distractions who will break your heart just like the boys in America. ;)

Last Friday was my last Black Opal meeting. Then Monday it was the end of Session Black Opal social. Which was absolutely amazing and fun. There were mocktails, food, and dancing. What more could a girl ask for?!

The other night I had a dream about home. I was happy to me back. I haven't dreamed about home since the first few nights I was here. but seriously in my dream...no joke, I was thinking about how soon I can return to Australia.

It has been from that point on that I have realized I do not want to come back home. I'm not ready to leave. Don't get me wrong, I absolutely, truly, crazy, miss everyone back home. BUT I absolutely, truly, love my life here too.

No More Uni

2008-05-29T06:11:00.003-07:00

So today was my last day of Uni. Actually it really hasn't set in to me that Uni is over...I guess the fact that I still have a paper and two final exams makes feeling done not possible.

The stress of it all is setting in. I've discovered the downside of your grade being based on just a few assignments. A) when the end of session comes close, you still don't know what your grade will be because you still have 50% yet counted. B) It all comes at once. Although it does that back home too...

I don't know.

I'm feeling pretty apprehensive about this Planet Earth final exam I have. I haven't felt this unprepared since my Psych 101 class back in freshmen year. At least starting this weekend I'll really be able to focus on it. It really does help when you enjoy the subject. Here in Australia they don't have to take so many random courses like we do back at UA.

All my mind can focus on is that once June 13th at 12:15pm I will be done with Uni here in Australia and I'll be able to enjoy it all.

But it freaks me out because it also means I need to start packing and finding a way back home...but most of all it means I have to say goodbye.

Its hard to explain how I feel. Its hard to explain once you form a life somewhere, to think you have to say goodbye to it.

eh, I'm just rambling now...

I realized in the last couple of days as I've been more studious, out of need,lol I miss alone time! I don't get much of it here but out of choice. However, as social as I am I do need me time.

Its true you do learn more about yourself when you study abroad. I'm still trying to wrap my mind around all that I've discovered about myself.

One Month

2008-05-23T07:20:00.004-07:00

That is all I have left?! One month...before I am...home, where my thoughts escaping, home, where my music’s playing, home, where my love lies waiting silently for me.

Half of me cannot wait to be home. I need to feel the comfort of my bed. I need to see my family and friends again. I need to remember what Tucson looks like. I need to taste the spicy flavors of Mexican food.

But then the other half feels that means there is only a month left. Only a month left to stay up late talking to Stefan. Only one month left of enjoying Ivan's gossip updates. Only one month left of Kate coming to use my bathroom for the mirror as she gets ready to go out at night. One month left of Campus East food. One month left of grocery shopping with Suzie on the weekends. One month left of hanging out with the girls. One month left of watching movies I always meant to see. One month left of Glassy's. One month left of my favorite spot at Uni. One month left of coffee's from the library coffee shop with the cute guys. One month left of continuing making memories that I could never had imagine.

I want to make the most of it and I don't want it to slip me by.

My heart feels torn and I can only image how it will feel the night before I leave...

For although I have every intention of coming back, it just won't be the same.

In other recent and great news...
I went out Wednesday and it was amazing. :)
I got a Distinction on my Hitler and Stalin paper, my 300 level course. Heck Yes.

In Routine

2008-05-17T23:19:00.003-07:00

I'm hoping as I type this blog a title for it will eventually come. I usually think of titles before typing. I seriously sometimes sit in class, if the class is dull and think of a title for a blog or my Facebook status. haha. It is so funny how technology has become so important in our lives. Funny or scary. Depending on how you look at it. Ah! Look at me going on a rant. Further evidence that I've been procrastinating full on this past week.

This past Tuesday was our WellFair Day event. When I say our, I'm referring to my Black Opal group here. It was a great event. We raised $620! I'm very proud to be able to say I was part of that. That goal is the most any Black Opal Phase II group has ever raised. The event ran very smooth and I think we got our message across to a few people at least. If I get some pictures of it I'll be sure to post.

I'm two more papers and three exams away from being done. All I can think about is the freedom I will be enjoying for 10 days when I'm done. I'm super excited that my last exam is Friday, June 13th!!! I'm thinking of hoping on a train to Sydney. Hopefully meeting Lindsey there. Then coming down that night and the next night...guess what?! Its my birthday. It is kind of disappointing though that very few people will be done with exams at that point. Seriously its a lose lose situation my birthday. Back home everyone is always away on my birthday and here we have stupid exams. Oh well.

I went shopping yesterday. I intended to buy two dresses. I ended up with just a black clutch purse. Its funny how whenever I go with the intentions to spend lots of money I don't but when I don't want to spend lots of money I do.

Oh I forgot to mention. So you know that paper that I got a 62 on?! I took it to my Tutor again. She still stands by her belief that she thought I would have at least received a Credit. She gave me 5 extra points which bumped me up to a Credit. She couldn't give me more but that is okay Credit = happy. :) Now I just have to worry about last paper...for that class. Which again not being graded by our tutors and this time they can't give us extra points. :/

Sorry this blog is kind of...blah. Things are good. I'm procrastinating with school work because I lack motivation. Compared to everyone else I really have nothing to do. Things are blah I think because I'm in routine.

I'm somewhat worried now because next week is the last week of classes and I really don't know what my grades are in most of my courses as they all lay in the balance of the papers I just turned in and the exams I will be taking.

I'm noticing that I'm getting lots of views on this blog! YAY! Do you have any questions? Things about studying abroad that I'm not answering in my bogs? Feel free to post a comment to ask or you can email me too at aparkman@email.arizona.edu
I don't bite.

Oh and I know I mentioned in one my first blogs that I suck at grammar but I also such at typos. :/ I was reading some past blogs and seeing all these typo errors I made. Sorry!

2008-05-09T05:17:00.002-07:00

The Panics!

2008-05-09T04:53:00.004-07:00

I had almost forgotten the rush I get when I go to a concert. It all came back again last night. I feel that a piece of my soul has been rejuvenated.

Check out "The Panics" on MySpace music.

In the mean time...here is lines from a song of theirs that played right now that just hit me as relating to me...

Its from the song, "Creak"

I just wanted to be somewhere else for a while
I was looking for a little bit more
but now I've been away so long
I don't remember what I'm looking for

Melissa has come and gone. It was fun having her around for a few days because I've been wanting to be able to share all this with everyone back home.

Here are some pictures from the night. Yes, I met them. Its my thing. I can't get enough of musicians. If I could drop out of Uni and become a groupie I would!

Stress Sinks, Junk Food Helps

2008-05-05T05:46:00.002-07:00

Updating time...

I've avoided writing for a while because I've been trying to get my mind around everything. I went through a mini phase of questioning everything. All because of a paper. I received my first paper back that I turned in for a grade, last Thursday. I got 62/100. Which translates into P for Passing.

The grading system goes something like this:
HD-High Distinction
D-Distinction
C-Credit
P-Pass
P/C-Pass Conceded
F-Fail

So many thoughts and feelings ran around my head. I thought, "oh crap this is what I get for having TOO MUCH fun." To things like anger because I had reviewed it with my tutor prior to turning it in and she told me it was good. Unfortunately she isn't the one who graded it. I also began to doubt my intelligence, sort of. It just made me wonder, how my intelligence measured up to the rest of the world. I've only been exposed to America's grading scale. I began to wonder is it that lenient that I look great there but really kind of suck?!

This grade led me to wonder just how much I have changing here. Doing things I never said I would or acting in ways I don't normally.

In addition, this weekend I've also began to feel just how long its been since I've seen my mom, sister, and brother. Before I knew it but it was this weekend I felt it. I've realized just how much I relied on them for simple weekend lunches that I am used to back home as ways to de-stress.

I've also been realizing that my TV watching back home may not be such a time waster after all but another important activity in my life to bring me some balance.

I'm better about the whole paper thing. And if I'm completely honest with myself I know it isn't the best paper I have ever written. Although I can't blame that on having "too much" fun because I had that paper done a week before it was due. I'm using that P grade to remind myself that I'm just not that girl that can be happy with passing because I know my abilities. It also helps that compared to a lot of people with the paper I did pretty good.

I just want to reinforce that I still believe studying abroad is the best decision I have ever made. These questioning phases that I go through here are exactly like I do back home. I think it is just a sign of how comfortable I have gotten here.

I'm learning things about myself, who I want to be, etc. I think right now its all to much to take but I know with time from now I'll be able to reflect and understand more it all.

I just tended to be a bit dramatic. ;) Which studying abroad, in Australia esp. has helped me realize I could learn a few things about just chilling. Not to take things too personally and go with the flow. I'm working on it.

I went to this Emotional Intelligence Workshop for Black Opal. I really enjoyed it. The speaker was engaging and I learned more about where I am in emotional intelligence and how I can be stronger in that area. Emotional intelligence is about how well you know yourself and how well you know others. One of the most powerful things I learned from it was that, emotions don't equal fact. And he kept saying this thing, that I keep saying now when I have a thought in my head that I don't want...and that is "Oh thank you mind for sharing that with me" Which goes back to when it comes to negative emotions it is important to acknowledge them but don't let them consume you. :) He also reminded me that I need to put things in perspective. At the end of day remember, what is really important. A year from now, heck even a few months from now, how much am I going to remember that P grade vs. my overall experience in Australia?

I'm super excited about this upcoming week. Melissa from Millennial project is coming. She's going to be filming some of my study abroad experience. In addition, with my Black Opal group, we are putting on Well Fair Day. It is the goal to raise money to assist Water Aid in their goals of bringing clean water and sanitation to countries in need. Before this session I never understood the lack of just clean water that so many people have to face on a daily basis. Next Tuesday at Uni we are going to be doing a couple of activities: African Water Hole and Winning Wishing Well in order to not only raise money but education Uni students of this fundamental right that all people are entitled too but don't have access to.

One last thing, last Tuesday in my Vietnam and Cold War Tutorial we discussed the United States. It was extremely interesting to hear how my peers felt about us. I was the only American so it was a bit confronting. It was frustrating to hear how much how others view us is based on our political leaders, i.e. Bush. Esp. how because our political leaders make decisions it is a general belief that the decisions they make are how we as a public feel. It just reinforced just how important it is to vote.

Taronga Zoo Photos

2008-04-30T00:09:00.008-07:00

Sydney Harbour

ANZAC Day and Taronga Zoo

2008-04-26T05:16:00.007-07:00

It is pitch black out and cold. Slowly groups of people make their way to the center of town. They gather around. For awhile, there is just the sounds of voices in conversation. Then all of a sudden the beat of drums begin. In formation men in uniform march through the crowd into the center. The ceremony begins. Prayers are read. It begins to rain. And as if part of the ceremony, in unison people pull their umbrellas. The ceremony goes on. We are reminded of the sacrifice of the men who have served Australia in war. Emphasis is placed on the Gallipoli the battle that is said to be the day Australia became recognized as its own country. The Australia anthem is played. It commences the Dawn Service of ANZAC Day.

ANZAC Day is like Veteran's Day back home. However, more emphasis is placed on it here. It is also a excuse people use to drink super early in the morning and all through the day. After the ceremony a breakfast was served, all they asked for was a gold coin donation. In return we received a full on breakfast (eggs, bacon, hash browns ect) and a fee drink (which could have been alcohol if you so chose).

Saturday I hopped on a train with my friend Suzie and her sister Megan. We went to Sydney to the Taronga Zoo. Can I say amazing? I feel so at home in Sydney. Taronga Zoo seriously puts Reid Park to shame. I rode a ferry for the first time and the Skyline is so much cooler than the one at the Blue Mountains. I got to see kangaroos which is pretty much all I really wanted to see since I was in Australia after all. I also saw koala bears, zebras, birds, lions, giraffes ect.

I also fell in love (in a motherly way) with this adorable cute little boy who only spoke Japanese so he had no idea what I was saying. It was so cute he kept inching his way close and closer to me. And then he played footsies with me. When he put his hand in mind I realized just how precious life is.

It was a good thing I met that boy because all that day I kept thinking how annoying little kids are. Trying to remember why it is I want to work with them when I grow up and have children of my own one day.

I'll post pictures up soon! Right now I'm trying to be productive in life since I pretty much enjoyed this weekend. haha.

Nan Tiem Temple

2008-04-20T01:45:00.005-07:00

I went to a Buddhist temple today with my Black Opal group. Once you drove into the grounds you immediately felt like you have traveled to a different country. The trees and plants are all different from the ones I've seen in Wollongong. Which is saying a lot because even the plants and trees I've seen in Wollongong are different to me than the desert plants I'm used to back home. The grounds at Nan Tiem are very well taken care of.

Nan Tiem was built in 1993 and lucky for me was very wheelchair accessible.

Upon arrival we immediately are taken to eat some tasty vegetarian food. I normally do not like curry but I liked it there. At this point though any food that isn't Campus East is amazing to me. We also had tempura which reminded me of home and going with my friends to Japanese restaurants. :)

Afterwards we had a guide take us around the grounds and to the temples. It was interesting to hear about Buddhism and what everything means to them. Later on he also discussed the basics of Buddhism. Most of it I'll be completely honest I really didn't absorbed. But this is how I interpreted the main message: That it is important to experience the here and now. Not to dwell on the past or look to the future. Expectations usually let people down because we are never satisfied and always want more, even when we get what we want. So we shouldn't expect things but enjoy what we have, enjoy the present.

I've always wanted to learn more about other religions so I'm really glad I had the opportunity to learn about Buddhism.

We also did some Tai Chi and meditation. I had a really hard time clearing my mind. Although some how I fell a sleep for brief moments here and there. lol Not that it was boring. However, I had thought the meditation would be my favorite part and actually I enjoyed Tai Chi the best.

And now I'm in my room (as it continues to rain outsides....) eating BBQ rice crackers (not the kind in the states that are rice cakes) these are crackers and I'm addicted to them. hehe.

Here are some pictures:

Just Updating

2008-04-18T07:17:00.004-07:00

I realized its been a bit since I last wrote. Not much really has been happening here though.

The weather has been rainy for almost a week now. No bueno. I've been kind of in a funk. I have started to realize just how long its been since I've seen family and friends back home. In addition, everyone here is super stressed and busy with their mid-sessions. I on the other had have none so I have been bored. I've been trying to slowly work toward getting my 5 bijillion papers done. The fear of them hang over me. As I'm terrified I won't get them done some how. It is 10x worse that I'm kind of a perfectionist in the sense I need to put a 110% in each paper and not just pop it out the night before. I need to feel I really truly did my best.

For the past couple of weeks, one night a week, a group of girls and I have been cooking each other dinner. This week it was pizza. I was pretty impressed at how well it turned out. The other week we had a meat pie. It was steak and mushroom. Yeah, pretty much amazing. :)

Last night was a Black Opal social. I have such a good time hanging out with Phase II people here. Seriously, I look forward to my Friday meetings because it is a guarantee I will laugh soo much. For the social last night we watched "The Dead Poets Society" I highly recommend it.

Tonight I just had a mini-marathon of Grey's. And although it was episodes I've already seen it was fun watching it as I miss it dearly. I forgot how much Grey's keeps me sane.

Getting Focused...

2008-04-09T00:07:00.002-07:00

Or at least trying too. As May is quickly approaching which also means I have 5 bijillion papers to write by then. Yes, I'm freaking out just a bit about it.

I need to look at the plus...I have no exams until Finals.

I'm trying to get more focused...aka spend more time in my room and less time socializing. That isn't working out so well for me as I spend most of my time on Facebook. I think Facebook should invent something where you can lock yourself out of your profile for a couple of days.

I actually have found I am more productive (at least here in Australia) when I am around people and studying then I am on my own. Which makes sense since back at good old UA I get a lot of homework done when I'm working the front desk.

I'm realizing how fast time is going by. It is now a common occurrence for someone or myself to point out that I only have three more months left...Which in one perspective is a lot because it has only been 2 months so far...

I kind wish I had started saving more money up for Australia sooner because I kind of wish I had made it to New Zealand. From what I have heard it is beautiful there and I've realized of late how much I love the great outdoors.

So much so that I fell asleep today at my favorite spot. The weather was absolutely perfect and I couldn't resist.

The past few days it has been rainy. No beuno.

Last weekend I was spontaneous and I went to Cold Rocks (ice cream shop) with some girls and then we took a walk along the beach. I was able to find the Southern Cross which was awesome!

I went out to dinner for the first time here too. We went to this Vietnamese Restaurant. It was exciting for me at least because I'm used to going out at least once a week back in Tucson.

Oh and I got these amazing boots. They were on sale too! I'll be taking many pictures of me in them...soon. Promise.

Other than the usual: eating, spending money, studying...ect. There isn't much to report.

Pictures!

2008-03-28T15:09:00.011-07:00

The aquarium
Blue Mountains...not White Mountains as I kept calling them...lol
A nice view of the city and Darling Harbour
Touching a star fish!
The view from top of Sydney Tower

The bridge next to Sydney Harbour
On top of the world! hehe
Sydney Opera House
The girls
The roomies :)
Ivan, myself, and Emma

Diversity Camp with Black Opal

2008-03-28T04:37:00.002-07:00

I just got back from Diversity Camp with Black Opal. I had an amazing time and I'm really glad I went. It is camps like Diversity that help me focus and refine what it is in life that I want and matters to me. In additon I met some awesome people.

At first it was awkward because I didn't know anyone and none of the staff was around when we loaded the buses to camp but the girls were more than willing to help get me on the bus. However, the whole awkwardness that was there because none of the guys really knew me quickly faded because for the rest of the camp I had no problem getting people to lift me up steps, carry me, and push me. One of the best parts of the trip was a hike we took and there was a lot of up hill and of course down hill parts and I had two guys who were champions and pushed me and carried me up that mountain. We had a nice inside joke going on and got people to believe that they jogged all the way down the mountain with me. haha. Despite all there teasing I felt very safe with them though I am sure some people were somewhat nerves because the two guys were also the biggest jokesters at camp.

Although many of the activities we did were ones I had done before it was interesting for me to see it done different and with different people. I also realized (not that I already knew this...) that I still have so much growing to do and that my eyes still have so much to see and understand.

Tony's (coordinator of Black Opal) 2 year old son was also around and he was just the cutest thing ever. He stole my heart. He had so much energy and at meal times I would chase him around and he would chase me around. haha. When he said goodbye before he left kissed my face to death. haha. It is when I see little kids full of life and innocence that I remember how important it is to be to become a Child Life Specialist.

Changing the subject slightly....
Something ironic happen to me just before I left for camp. I was waiting outside Uni by the taxi pull out area. It was early in the morning and no one was around. This old lady comes by. She starts talking. I just thought she was the typical old ladies that come by me and say nice things, blah blah. Quickly I realized she wasn't one of those ladies and actually she was verbally attacking me because of my race. According to her the reason I am in a wheelchair is because I am Asian and that Asians are aliens and that the alien has kidnapped my body. She was vicious. I ignored her. She even said if she could she would hit me over the head...when she said that I knew I really needed to keep my mouth shut because I didn't need her to get physical specially since I was alone. 5-10 minutes later she finally leaves and I'm left baffled because I have never experience racism before. I've heard of it of course but never first hand. It was a interesting experience to say the least. Of course it effected me a bit but I think it was kind good (in a strange way I know) that I experienced something like that...to understand at least for myself how it feels to be in that position esp. since that is something I'm trying to fight, racism.

Anyways...one last thing. I wrote a poem at camp. It was "I Am" poem. Since I've written one before and trying to write another one like it is difficult I did one on Australia so far...I think it sums up pretty well everything...

I am from my first airplane ride alone
From my 5 hour lay over in LAX
And from my 13 hour flight to Sydney with the feeling of excitement

I am from my first few days at Campus East and feeling homesick
I am from feeling alone to quickly feeling at home

I am from my first look at Uni
Falling in love with it
Finding my favorite spot
And never seeing so much green in my life

I am from trips to the beach and getting lost in the mall
From Supree shopping and postcard picking
From spending to much money and not having a care in the world

I am from my first trip to Glassy's, Ivory, and Castros
From friends who take the taxi with me
From dancing the night away and falling in love with Aussie boys who dance
From late night singing sessions
And from caramel lattes to get me through the day

I am from tea time with sandwiches and nutella
From learning to enjoy cream in my team
And from learning the difference between jelly and jam

I am from 3 hour long dinners
From inappropriate conversations
And from being part of the loudest table but loving every minute of it

I am from midnight conversations with Ivan and Stefan
From becoming their "other" roommate
From movie nights, study sessions, and inside jokes
From YouTube videos and music that from now on whenever I heart it in my heart I'll always be dancing with them in the summer rain

I am from being spontaneous for once in my life
From free rides and living off of Hungry Jacks
From tourist spots to great outdoors
From first train rides and trips on the trolly
From walks on the harbour and never wanting to leave

I am from too many pictures but not enough
From laugher that being me to tears
Moments that I never dreamed of
And from finding more of myself while losing pieces along the way
I am from being here only 2 months and already knowing that leaving will be one of the hardest things I've ever done

Falling In Love With sYdNey

2008-03-24T03:18:00.005-07:00

I have no idea where to begin and once I do how I can stop. I'm still trying to wrap my mind around all that happen in Sydney. Which honestly wasn't as crazy as it may sound but if you consider my standards of craziness it was.

There is not enough time in a day or energy in me to give you a play by play instead I'll try to give you some highlights...and let your imagination take care of the rest.

I was a mix of emotions before I left. I was surprisingly calm while a bit apprehensive since it was my first time riding a train and alone. I've been doing that a lot lately...:)

My trip to Sydney was good boost in self confidence. I love the city because as a wheelchair user it is easier to get around. Granted that the sidewalk ramps kind of suck because most of them had lips so I had to go backwards on all of them...

I almost fell out of my chair like three times! Once when I got to Central Station in Sydney, another when I was trying to cross the street but there was a lip, and one other time when I was getting on the Skyway at the Blue Mountains.

But compared to Wollongong (although I love it here...) I could go places easily on a bus or train. Which means a lot cheaper. Plus I got really lucky and almost never paid for a bus ride. Which isn't standard since my friend Colin in Sydney who is in a wheelchair too says he's been paying the whole time. haha.

But here are all the places I went:
Sydney Opera House
Darling harbor
aquarium
The Rock (Its the oldest part of Sydney which also means not so much wheelchair accessibility) BUT getting into the expensive shops like Tiffany's was not hard...lol
Sydney Tower
Minus Five (A club in Sydney that the room is minus 5 degrees)
Botanical Gardens
White Mountains

By the end of the first day money was already running low....But I was able to get all my souvenir and gift shopping done. In addition to buy yet another cute dress. Hey it was only $10! haha

Things I experienced:
lifts
street corners
running into people I know on the street
sharks on top of me
meat pies (with free sausage roll!)
free pictures from Minus Five (normally cost $30!)
kebab
creepy guys
staying in a hostel (wheelchair accessible: YHA Railway)
being spontaneous
trolley ride (wheelchair accessible up in Blue Mountains!)
train rides
train stations
finding a beer I like
wine tasting
living off Hungry Jacks, coffee, and some sleep
Tai food
singing
drunk texting (but not really being drunk...)
shopping
free rides
naked men
cute guys opening doors
cute bartenders
cute but dumb waiters
romantic walks on harbour
realizing I need a rich boyfriend
places closing by 4pm
charging chair in coffee shops
and I'm sure so much more that I am not remembering....lol.

Sydney was amazing. I was sad to leave.

Kind of changing of subject...

I've started to notice how things keep happening when I leave. That life goes on. Not that I didn't think that was going happen. I knew it would...but it feels strange to talk to my family back home or talk to friends and hear all that is happening to them. I sometimes feel like I'm missing out. Even here, I left Campus East just for a few days and I come back to all this stuff happening...I just wish I could be in two places at once. I think that is were the homesickness comes in.

I've been trying to post pictures but blogspot isn't cooperating....I'll figure out a way some how. Just not right now because I need to get some homework done as I am leaving again tomorrow morning bright and early for camp.

Feeling at Home

2008-03-14T19:07:00.003-07:00

Sorry it has been awhile since my last posted. I tried putting this up last week but it didn't work. :(

I've been here for over a month now and I'm starting to realize how much at home I feel here.

Here are some of the signs:
*My pimples have returned
*I'm freaking out about school
*I'm on Facebook all the time

Things I'm missing (besides of course my family and friends):
*Food! American food. I miss my Jimmy John's, Chipotle, and Pei Wei's. Most of all I miss Starbucks. Maybe I'll get some when I am in Sydney next week! I also miss American junk food.
*Tucson weather. At least its predictable and not all humid.
*Familiar places i.e. Fry's and Target
*TV. I have no TV here and I'm really missing my shows.
*Less Bugs. Seriously everywhere I go there is a bug.
*My room at VDP. I miss the spaciousness of it and the at home feeling I had created.
*I miss working the front desk.

Oh and its St. Patrick's Day and I wish at I was home because my mom always makes me corn beef! Which is my favorite.

Ok, I'll stop there because I'm just going to make myself depressed.

I also know I'm settling in here because things go wrong here as they do back home. But that is the thing...things will always go wrong, no matter where you are. So why not have some new experiences with that (to make the bad better).

Apparently I'm not that American (which is a good thing here). Honestly I think I'm pretty American. I like a lot of American culture.

Classes still going ok. Except I hate Planet Earth because it makes me feel stupid. Science is not my thing. I like my Stalin and Hitler class and my Cold War class. I find it interesting. But then again that is my thing.

This time next week I'll be in Sydney I couldn't be any more excited about. I bit apprehensive about it because I've never rode a train before and because I have so much homework to do before then because I won't get anything done during break!

I've been trying to post pictures with this blog but Blogger isn't cooperating. I'll post pictures soon!

Blue Butterflies, Lizards, and Dragonfly, Oh My!

2008-03-06T17:27:00.003-07:00

So it has been a bit since I have written. A testament that I have been buckling down. Not really actually. If I really was getting in school mode I wouldn't be writing this blog, I would be reading the four chapters I need to read and finishing up that annotated bibliography.

I really took myself seriously when I told myself that I would take it easy while I was here. Its not that I'm not getting things done or that I'm just doing a half way job. Its just that I'm much more lazzie fair about school work then I'm in the States. It causes me moments of uneasiness which quickly fade away as I leave my room to go hang out with people.

I found a new lunch spot and I also found an awesome place to eat. My new lunch spot is right above a small waterfall. I needed to find a new spot as my other spot has been invaded. As many of my other places here seem to be.

Anyways the only problem with this new spot of mine is that it is also occupied by this tailless lizard. I believe his tail was brutally cut off. He always waits for me to get comfortable before he makes his appearance and startles me. I believe he gets great enjoyment out of this. I think I need to name him. Any suggestions?

While eating yesterday I also had the enjoyment of seeing my first dragonfly. At least I believe she's my first dragonfly because I can't recall ever seeing one before. I also had the pleasure of enjoying company of a magnficant blue-turquoise and black butterfly. The butterfly reminded me of those silky dress shirts that are all the rage now.

I had a entertaining dinner conversation last night. Not that most of my dinners here aren't entertaining. My friend Ivan and I enjoy making people uncomfortable with our very open conversations...But last night I was talking to a couple of other guys. They cannot understand how Americans eat apples with peanut butter. I've met a few people already who have never had a PBJ! They honestly are mystified on how people could enjoy peanut butter on apples. Although, personally I do not enjoy it either I cannot find what is so strange. With the PBJ scenario though I kept calling jam, jelly. This received very perplexed faces. I couldn't understand why. Well, its because jelly here means Jello. haha. I couldn't stop laughing at the image I was giving them of PBJs.

Academically UOW reminds me of UA as in the weight of work. I'll let you know how the grading is here though. Lauren describes it as being difficult to receive high distinction but difficult to fail too. They don't do the whole A, B, C thing here. They do High distinction, distinction, credit, pass, and fail.

Video Clips of N. Gong

2008-03-01T16:20:00.003-07:00

Here is some video footage of N. Gong. Enjoy! P.S. the last blog, the video one...should be working now. :)

North Wollongong

2008-02-29T22:20:00.006-07:00

The last few days I've felt that I've allowed myself to get comfortable and not out of my comfortable zone. In addition I feel that there is so much I could be doing but haven't. Which is why I made it a goal for this weekend to make it to North Wollongong beach and tomorrow the Science Centre and Planetarium.

I was somewhat hesitant of going to N. Wollongong not knowing what to expect. I can now safely say I'm so glad I did. It was beautiful. I realize I say that about everything here... but it was a different kind of beautiful than everything else I've seen.

Laugh, but I seriously got teary eyed as I was making my way around the beach. Coming to the beach was another step forward for me. A realization again to myself just how much I can accomplish on my own. How much I've accomplished so far. How I wasn't imagining this at all but that it was all very much real. I wasn't laying in bed back in Tucson dreaming being near the ocean but actually there.

Part of my "I feel like an adult" experience included treating myself to a very nice lunch. I figure if no one else is going to spoil me I might as well spoil myself. I needed it. Last night I had start feeling a bit sad that my friends weren't here to experience all this with me. Along with the lunch I decided to order wine. A. It was just exhilarating to be in a restaurant and order wine. B. I have concluded that the reason people drink wine with meals and say that wine help bring out the taste in a meal is because wine is so disgusting that after you sip it and then take a bite of your food. Your food taste so absolutely delicious! :)

Again...here are some more amazing pictures!

Hello!

2008-02-29T05:46:00.002-07:00

So this video has been giving me troubles for days now! I've tried posting since Wednesday. I hope it works...if it doesn't try the link underneath. Its on YouTube. :)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pwMzJDRch6I

I've Always Wanted To...

2008-02-28T14:21:00.002-07:00

Last night I realized that I've been doing all these things here that I've always wanted to do but never have. There was this orientation session for Campus East a week ago and the person was telling us that while you are here you should have at least one cultural experience a week. That statement haunted my thoughts for a bit because I was thinking that I wasn't doing that. Than again I think I was thinking to hard about it and not really thinking about everything I have done. So although not all the things I've done, that I've always wanted to do, are exactly "Australian" culture (but my AUST 101 class might argue it is...) they are still amazing experiences nevertheless.

Here is my list:
*Go to Australia!
*Tried Vegemite
*Learned to really enjoy cream in my tea.
*Have my hand read
Which by the way wasn't too impressive since I found out I really do know how to read hands because most of the things he told me I had saw in my own hands or have had someone else tell me before. Which is kind of cool if you think about it because of consistency and accuracy reasons.
*Watch the sunset on the beach
*Dance all night (or close to it...)

On a different note...academic wise I'm having mix emotions. I'm freaking out because the load is heavier than people expressed. But than again I always freak out...Although the load seems harder (or at least the same at UA) I'm finding that I'm enjoying the topics I'm signed up for. I have a Professor for two of my classes which are totally two different topics, one is about the Cold War and the other about Stalin and Hitler. I was so happy to see that I had him for the second class because he's the kind of history teacher I love. He tells history like it is a story. My AUST 101 professor could learn something from him. Maybe if she talked the way he did I wouldn't want to fall asleep. :) However, the reading for the class so far isn't bad. I like my EESC101 Planet Earth class too but I find it hard to stay awake in that class. Mostly because learning about rocks isn't the most stimulating topic. But when he mixes it with how you can look at rocks to figure out how old it is then its pretty cool.

I met with the Black Opal coordinators here. They were so nice and welcoming. They gave me free stuff and told me they would take care of me! If your a Blue Chip student and your reading this I strongly encourage you to start planning to study abroad here at Wollongong. I realize I've only been here for four weeks now but the time so far has been amazing.

Learning My Lesson

2008-02-25T02:33:00.002-07:00

I learned today that eating lunch by the duck pond is a big mistake. Being nice and throwing pieces of break is even worse. You'd think I'd learn my lesson already but the pond is so inviting. So are the ducks, but they are also aggressive.

Classes began today and getting up at 7:30am was not fun. Trying to get into the school mode has proven difficult. It is hard to shake off the fact that I have been able to just have fun for the past two weeks. Not to mention not being in school since early December. However, most students here haven't had class since November!

Some things to share...
*Uni has a bar on campus. Yes, a bar where you can buy alcohol!!! How crazy is that?! So far I haven't seen anyone stumble into class drunk. Although it is only the first day...
*Wheelchair accessible bathrooms are hard to come by. Although when you do you find one they are pretty nice.
*Most doors into buildings are not open automatically. However, most doors are usually open or moderately light.
*Two hour lectures are not fun.
*Wheelchair population actually is the same as the UA or at least close to it. The services are quiet similar too. Ironically though the door to the Disability center is not easy to open.
*Over the weekend I found that train station is not that hard for me to get to. But I'm disliking the ramps leading off of the sidewalks, they're so steep and all have lips...its almost as if there might as well not even be a ramp there.
*Apparently I have a accent that my friend Lucy tonight pointed out and said it was cute. I wish I could hear this accent of mine. :)

Corn Syrup, humidity, and everything in between

2008-02-22T22:44:00.009-07:00

I received a care package yesterday from my amazing friend Dele. It was the best gift I have ever been given in my life. It was worth the wait. The package also made me the cool kid in the lunchroom, during dinner. I shared my Hershey's chocolate which was a big hit since Hershey isn't sold here.

I figured out why things like soda and chocolate taste different here than in the States. Australia doesn't use corn syrup as much as the U.S.

The weather hasn't been all that great these past few days. The sun at least has been out for the most part, but the humidity has sucked! My skin has darkened so much in just the last couple of days. I need to invest in some sun lotion.

I found my substitute for Starbucks! Even better it at Uni and not to expensive. I found that caramel latte here are what I'm used to being Caramel macchiatos.

I purchased my textbooks for this semester...so far only $90 something. Not bad. I'm excited because the two I have for my history courses look so interesting. I read the introduction for one of them and found it an easy read.

There really isn't anything too exciting to report. I've been having fun and staying up super late! I'm trying to enjoy it all now before classes start on Monday. I'm so not ready for classes. Its been such a long time since I've had to study that I think I might have forgotten...lol.

Until next time...here some more pictures and film:

The Three Musketeers aka Pub buddies and singing buddies
Yo! Yo! Yo! Whats up?!

New Experiences

2008-02-19T19:25:00.007-07:00

Each day it seems that I either learn something new or something happens to me that has never happen to me. Which I am sure is true for me back in the States but being in a different country makes those subtle changes in my every day routine even more apparent.

Right now it is kind of a waiting game with my classes. I'm "enrolled" but being "enrolled" is different from being signed up for tutorials which I think is more important than anything. However, each faculty (which is what they call colleges) does it differently and to register for tutorials you have to wait till they open it up. I'm lucky because I get preferred campus registration. Which means I'm more likely to get the tutorial times I want. Nevertheless I'm still worried that for some reason (because the unexpected can always occur) that I won't get into the tutorials I need. Everyone tells me that it shouldn't be difficult but people say a lot of things...

I haven't purchased textbooks yet because I don't want to find out that I cannot get into the tutorial I want and need to drop that class. I hate waiting and I hate doing things at the last minute. I believe in always being prepared. I shouldn't worry to much though because next week I only have lecture no tutorials, seminars, or labs.

I had to wrestle with myself yesterday over weather or not to take 5 classes or not. I decided not. Although that means my senior year at UA will be heavy with 5 classes each semester. Darn. But I figure it is better to do a heavy load at UA where I am used to the pressure and not in Australia where the classes may be more intense than I'm used to it. In addition, I am here to have some fun. If I did 5 classes I would have been in classes 5 days a week, now at least I get Friday's off! :) I hope that will allow me to maybe go to Sydney for a weekend or something.

I spent today tracking down my classes. I also checked out the library which practically has an art museum inside!

I than spent an hour at this cafe on Uni. I was going to buy lunch there until I saw the prices. The cheapest meal was $16! It was much more classy than I though. Instead I just got a coffee, a macchiato. Bad choice, not at all like Starbucks. lol. But I loved just sitting there looking at the green Uni and listening to the birds chirp. I had some nice dining companions; birds. One in particular was quite the pre-Madonna if you ask me. He just strutted right into the place like he owned it. Although refused to get close to anyone. He perched himself on the table and seemed to get fussy when he wasn't served fast enough. Although he didn't mind posing for me for pictures. :)

After there I went to my favorite spot. At which time I was chased by two different types of birds. When I say chase I mean they are pretty fearless and started coming up to me. I had enough fear for the both of us that I quickly moved away. lol. I don't know these birds and who knows if they get feisty. I didn't want to find out. Esp. one who has this beautiful orange beak scared be a bit because his claws I'm pretty sure if he got them on me would break me in half. haha.

Most of the birds though spent there time hiding under the shade as today was quiet hot! It feels like Tucson during the summer, only with a bit of humidity.

There was a picture perfect moment, that if I could have captured it I would have because all the different types of birds that reside here at Uni were just gathered in the same area by a pond hanging out together.

I'm easily impressed with things that are novel to me. I think its kind of a blessing since I can enjoy the small things in life.

Last two nights have been fun. I stayed on campus and hanged out with the kids who aren't old enough to go to the pubs. I kind of had more fun doing that than going to the pubs. No alcohol just good times and laughs. The first night we played cards, I taught some of them how to play Blackjack and Texas Hold 'Em. I'm a great influence aren't I? But that doesn't compare to the show they introduced me to, which is called "Skins." It seriously had sex, drugs, and rock and roll. I was kind of surprised how explicit the show was... Than last night we watched "Across the Universe" amazing movie. If you haven't seen it I say you should. Although you should note you need to be in a thinking mood and keep in mind some things may not make sense at first.

Oh and I hate the alarms here. The last two nights it went off, once it went off twice in one night! It is the most awful noise I have ever heard in my life.

I keep finding more words that Americans and Australians have differences in:

Ketchup is called Tomato sauce
Elevator is called Lift
Fireman are called the Fire Brigade
Levels in a building go from, ground floor to first floor, ect. Although I have found in buildings they make it even more confusing by doing things like Ground floor, A1, first floor ect.

Here are some pictures from my adventures at Uni today: I really can't get enough of Uni!

Bored, Confused, Whatever

2008-02-18T01:36:00.002-07:00

Today was Orientation and as I reflect back on it I probably should have gone into it with more of a positive outlook. Instead all I could think about was my Orientation at UA and how horrifying that was. I was expecting this to be the same. It wasn't as overwhelming but it was boring and I felt it was kind of useless. I got some useful info (i.e. handouts) but the stuff they talked about was kind of pointless to me (i.e. Spring Break trips). Although hearing about trips is great, I kind of think they should have made it an option. So instead of registering for classes and getting advising (which shouldn't our education be focused on?) we spent learning about life in Australia.

I was not alone in my confusion either. First, off the leader we had was not at all enthusiastic and really had not much of an idea of what to do. In addition she wasn't really helpful with the advice and I kind of got the feeling that she though all of us were crazy because we were freaking out about how to register. It was fusterating to see others who were having no problem at all.

We got no instructions. One minute we are eating, the next they are taking our picture for our ID, and then throwing us in a computer room to register. No directions. I was like "umm what do I register for? I haven't even seen an adviser yet." The student helper was like, "You haven't seen an adviser yet?"

Ultimately what did I get out of today? Nothing, expect finding out that I need to sign up for classes myself. Fun. I have to wait 24 hours too to do that before my password and user name is activated. I'm worried that all the classes will be filled. I also have to wait for my advisers back in Tucson to get back to me because I want to make sure the classes I take here will count back home.

See the downside of applying early, the course schedule for the semester you plan on going isn't available. I did do a pre-approval form but not much good that did me.

::Sigh:: As you can tell I was a bit flustered today. But once I got back to Campus East, ate, talked to a few people, tried to plot out a general idea of what classes I want, I felt better. I don't feel so stressed right now. I like it. But it is odd to me since I'm used to worrying about everything. But I know right now there really isn't anything I can do so I might as well not worry about it. :) Australia is rubbing off on me. ;)

Like I said before, being flexible is key.

Mexican, French, Swedish, Asian...

2008-02-17T01:26:00.002-07:00

When I was coming to Australia I figure that the majority of the people I would meet would be Australian. However, quickly I have learned that Australia really has representation from all kinds of nationalities and I am loving it!

Yesterday I went to the mall here. OMG! I really think I could spend days in it and not only get lost but find myself quiet entertained. I loved it. My Japanese friend, Ming, and my very new friend (that I had just met the night before and had breakfast with) Michael who is from France (he says his name much sexier than just Michael)...went to the mall. While at lunch we realized that we each had gotten something to eat that was very close to our nationality. haha. It was than that I realized how cool it was that I was having lunch and hanging out with such a diverse group.

There was a campus party last night too and there I met more people from different places. I met a guy from Sweden and Javier who is my suite mate is from Mexico City.

Apparently bus loads of Americans have been arriving the past couple of days. I think there are mixed feelings of that. Not really that Australians hate it but Americans come all the time so its kind of normal.

Tomorrow is Orientation. Keep your fingers crossed that I can get my classes I need. I'm nerves about that because they do things different here...

Falling In Love With Uni

2008-02-15T04:14:00.008-07:00

I realized today that it has been just a week since I first arrived to Wollongong. Although to me it feels much longer than this. Not in a bad way. Just that so much in just a week has happen to me. I've seen and experienced things that I've only dreamed about doing.

Some of the signs that I've noticed that has made me realize how comfortable I feel here now:

I'm starting to sleep like I do back home.
I'm eating what I normally eat back home. (meaning less)
I'm getting bored like I do back home. However, that boredom I do not think will last much longer as today I got my chair back! Whoot. I was really excited and told everyone I saw that I was getting it back today. haha.

I took it to campus and it did well esp. considering all the inclines there are on campus... but the campus is pretty small.

But like the saying goes, "great things come in small packages" and that is for sure with Uni. I found my spot on campus. It is away from the UniCenter area. It is right next to a small stream and when you look up you can see the water fall in the distance. I spent 45 minutes there today just writing post cards and listening to the water flow down the stream and the duck converse with one another. Every time I looked up I saw green grass, a green mountain, and beautiful diverse green trees. I felt at peace there. I felt like I belong there. I know I will dearly miss it when I go back home. I wish I was better at words to truly express to you the depth of the beauty of it all. I thought to myself, "WoW! this is real, I'm really here. I'm not imagining it or seeing it on TV or in a magazine pretending I'm there, I'm really here." It was a picture perfect.

I also felt very much like a American tourist while on campus today. I had my iPod in, my map out, and my camera snapping pictures away. haha. I was grateful that no one was really around.

Another reason why I'm loving Australia so much is that my skin is so clear. Meaning I have but one pimple on my face! haha. My face isn't all greasy either. It is the first time in years since my face has been this clear. I think my body is enjoying being a little less stress then I normally am.

Here are some more pictures and video: Enjoy!

Australian Boys Dance!

2008-02-13T14:42:00.003-07:00

Last night was amazing! To be honest I was nerves because I had never been out to clubs before (as 21 is the legal age back home). But 18 is the legal age here. Yes, people will ask you to drink like a million times but as long as you stick to your convictions you fine. If you don't want to drink, don't. It isn't hard to have fun sober.

A few of the RA's took a taxi with me and split the cost since I can't get on the van's that the bars provide here. I thought that was great of them since the van is free and the taxi isn't.

I felt kind of grown up too last night because only once was my ID checked! But this morning a couple of the RAs told me it probably is because they were being politically correct. It doesn't matter to me it just felt great not to be considered to young.

I basically went bar hoping which isn't hard to do since most of the places are all near each other. The bar's here are pretty nice and I know earlier I said I saw couple near Wooldroff's that were not wheelchair accessible...but the ones closer in town were. I went to three different ones and all of them were wheelchair accessible. Even better was that it doesn't cost to get in! I spent the night dancing away and chatting. I was very impressed how willing Australian boys are to dance! Back in the states you usually have to beg a guy to even think about it but last night there were a few times that it was me and like three other guys dancing!

At the beginning of the night I was thinking how does anyone meet anyone in a bar?! It is so loud and so hard to talk to anyone. Then I figured it out, people meet people because in order to talk to people you have to get really close to them.

Wollongong is very hilly and not just on campus, one of the clubs we went to was father away and there was a few hills we had to get up to get to it. But for the most part if you can find someone to help push (which isn't hard) or if you have a power chair getting around isn't bad.

Could Be Better Could Be Worse

2008-02-10T22:24:00.000-07:00

When I woke up this morning, I was apprehensive because I knew I would be trying to get my chair fixed. I was able to get a hold of someone quiet quickly actually. The front desk called for me and within an hour someone came and took the chair. He called an hour ago. Prognosis: apparently in essence I broke the battery charger. Although I knew that I would need a converter to plug it in, my dealer never told me about there being a switch on the battery charger that needs to be changed in different countries. Even the guy said there was no way for me to know. But I am a bit pissed my dealer didn’t tell me even when I had told him I was going to Australia! It looks like it is going to cost over $300 to fix it too. The guy isn’t sure how long it will take either because he says customer service here in Wollongong with Invocare is slow. I figure I’ll wait a few days and if I hear nothing I’ll see if I can get a loaner from them because Orientation is next week and I want to see more of UOW before then.

Which leads me to much brighter news…

I decided I did not want to spend all day sitting in my room. I went to Uni (aka the University) just to the food/stores/post office area. There is no way I could have made it any further than that because there are so many inclines everywhere. It really helps that I’m not shy because when I knew I couldn’t make it up a hill I just asked someone.

I am so glad I decided to go. I cannot even begin to start expressing just how beautiful just the little area I saw. Luckily, I brought my camera to help me show you just how amazing it is! I almost felt like I was in a forest because there is so much green. Green grass and tall green trees. And birds hanging out with humans! Honestly, my first thought looking at it was, “I don’t want to go back home!” lol. I love UA’s campus but it cannot compare to how beautiful UOW is. It is more than just beautiful it is peaceful too (I realize though that part of that peacefulness could be because no one is around…)

I met some more people. Shasquich and I met up at Uni for lunch and she introduced me to two of her friends. One was another Japanese girl and the other Indonesia. I’m really loving how I am meeting all these people. I really didn’t think I was going to have the opportunity to be able to meet so many people from different Asian backgrounds.

Enjoy more pictures:

Some Australian currency:

Can you believe I was this close!
This was the scene I beheld that really did me in...

Australians version of a rooster... I say this because it is loud and it is the sound I usually wake up to in the morning.
Kookaburras

The Sounds of Wollongong Beach

2008-02-09T22:24:00.000-07:00

Thought you might enjoy some footage of Wollongong beach.

A Piece of Wollongong

2008-02-09T18:10:00.000-07:00

Once again I have found how fortunate I am that everyone is so nice here. At breakfast I met two other people. One is Vietnamese, his name is Ming. He’s only here for a few more weeks. He is in the Engineering program; the same one Andrew is in. I also met Shasquich (bare in mind that is probably not how her name is spelled but my phonetic spelling of it.) She is Japanese and will be here for the semester as I will be too. Both hadn’t been to the beach yet and as I was giving them directions they offered to take me with them. Afterwards they also took me to a shopping area. Only Woodruffs was open. It is shocking (to me at least) how expensive things are here.

I should note though that only Woodruff was wheelchair accessible. Most of the other shops here have a step to get into. Although I saw a couple restaurants which were easy to get into and the post office looked like it had a ramp. The few pubs we went by had several steps leading up to the entrance and it didn’t look like there were any ramps around.

The sidewalks are quiet bumpy and some of the ramps leading off have a lip. But it isn’t too bad and reminds me of how it is like going from UA to downtown or 4th Ave. I also saw one guy in a wheelchair pushing along down the sidewalk and another in a scooter going up the very step bridge. So for the most part I think I will be alright getting around as long as I continue meeting nice people so willing to help me.

Here are some pictures:

No Worries

2008-02-09T12:09:00.001-07:00

So Australia’s laid back feeling I think has rubbed off on me a bit. I got my outlets fixed but unfortunately the wheelchair will still not charge. I called the number I was given of a repair place on Wollongong, the number didn’t work. I emailed them but because it is Saturday I don’t think they are open…I’m keeping my fingers crossed but I’m not allowing it to get the best of me. I feel that even if I can’t get it fixed right away everything will be okay because everyone here is being really helpful. I’m a little annoyed though that it isn’t charging and I never even thought to make sure the chair charged before I left the airport, It moved and that is all that mattered to me at the time. Then again I never thought I would have problems with it charging…oh well. Although I’m calm about the situation now, last night I wasn’t and I have to say the fact that I am calm about it now is a little bit strange feeling for me.

There are a million things swarming in my mind right now that I want to share with you. I’ll probably jump around.

Another reason why I haven’t given my chair much though except when I look at it in the corner of my room or wish I could use it so I could explore…it is because I’ve spent several hours today just trying to get my phone card to work properly so I could call home. I l have learned not to call home when it is raining because it doesn’t work so well. Although I very briefly spoke to my mom yesterday when I arrived I needed to call her again. I really wanted to talk to her last night but because of the time difference I couldn’t. I have learned though whenever I talk to her that is when I get the saddest. I’ll start trying now not to call too often till I am able to feel more at home here. Sending emails to keep her posted is easier because I don’t hear her voice and feel home sick.

I’ve also meant some people who have moved in to Campus East. Everyone really is super nice and friendly. There isn’t many of us here so at lunch today we all gathered around a table to eat. Yes, Dele I finally met a cute Australian too! His name is Alex. He’s doing something in Engineer but Engineering here isn’t the same as it is in the States. From how they talked about it Engineers don’t get as much respect because of how most think Engineers here are drunks and lazy…something like that.

I also gave away myself on just how American I am. We were all eating when the girl next to me said “Is that a cockroach.” I looked and sure enough it was, right by my chair, I quickly moved away. The girl said they never saw anyone move so fast before. lol. At least I didn’t scream that would have been embarrassing. We all got a good laugh about it.

As I said earlier I don’t feel to worried about my chair not working either because like four times today when I’ve been struggling to get up a hill or open a door usually a person will pop by and open the door or give me a push.

Every time I say thank you for something they say, “No worries” which is equivalent to “No problem” but for some reason it sounds different to me by the way they mean it. Usually in the states people say “No problem” as an automatic respectful response but when people say “No worries” here it is like they are saying, ‘It isn’t a big deal of course I’d help you.’ As if to them it is not only expected but they want to help.

I made it to the beach! It is bit of a walk from campus, although we found a shortcut on the way back. I’d say it is about 15 minutes away. However, I don’t think my power chair even if it was working could make the trip because of all the bumps along the way. Andrew, the guy who is letting me use his account to use the internet took me to see the beach. I also couldn’t go to all the way to the water either because of the sand. Nevertheless, I loved the view which is enough for me. J The water is a bit too violent for my taste.

Walking to the beach was fun because I got to more of Wollongong. You have to see the houses!!! Seriously I’m in love with them. Most of the city is surrounded by mountains, beautiful green mountains. Oh if you can see it! You can’t help but feel happy. Of course I think Andrew thinks I’m a bit odd because the whole way there and back I couldn’t stop talking about how beautiful I thought everything was haha. He’s from Melbourne and to him Wollongong isn’t that great.

I’ve been getting great sleep here too. Although my timing is off. It is 6am here and I got up at 5am and had got to be around 10pm. I’ve been only getting 6 hours but waking up very refreshed. Usually I need more sleep then that to feel refreshed in the states.

Despite all my planning, things I didn’t consider have popped up besides my chair not working. For example, I had though my meals came with the housing fee…it doesn’t. Nevertheless the convenience of having a cafeteria near is good. Right now my meals have been free because there aren’t that many people here. Also, in order to get to campus via the bus they have here you have to buy a bus pass. Which as I was re-reading the material I was given about fees here at the dorm they do mention all of this. L Most of my worries had lied with wheelchair related things. But all of this isn’t the end of the world either. Just remember (and they will tell you this too before you leave) be flexible. Be prepared to be flexible.

So I realized in my last blog I mention the food I’ve eaten here and left it at that. I meant to explain why I mention it. All of the food I’ve eaten here are things I normal eat in the states (that is all they have been offering) BUT the thing is that all those foods taste different here then in the States. For example the chicken looked just cooked but it was spicy. I had pizza here yesterday for lunch. It looked just like a veggi pizza but tasted differently. But mostly because of the cheese they use. It is very fresh so it tastes different; I’d say a bit bitter.

Here are some more pictures:

But as in more interesting things here…

2008-02-08T12:20:00.001-07:00

So far everyone is really nice here, like I left a bag in the car and he came right back pretty quick with it. Thank goodness to because it had my iPod. Oh and when the hot water wasn’t working, and I didn’t find out till like 5pm, the person in charge I guess had left and was on her way home…she came right back to fix it!

They do like to shorten words to things. Like the airline attendant called my laptop a lappy and in the bathroom the name for feminine napkins they call it nappys!

There are only a handful of other people here. I’ve only talked to one whose name is Andrew. He is really nice (he’s the one who gave me is account info so I can use the internet whenever). We’ve talked about our different cultures, about UOW, and he taught me the game of cricket here. Although I didn’t get the terminology I do get the basic concept of it. Oh and I thought they played to many ads in America, here they play ads every 5 minutes! Which the first ad they played here, every time it went to ads was a McDonald’s ad!

Before any of you get any idea’s he’s engaged and is only here for two more weeks. And although he is nice, he isn’t my type.

Food I have eaten so far here…spaghetti, chicken & rice.

Soda here is expensive $1.50! So are snacks like chips. I saw a Mars candy bar in the vending machine for $2!

The Rollercoaster

2008-02-08T01:23:00.001-07:00

I hope your interested in a long post. :)

Well, to begin I am writing this first draft, of my first post from Australia in a magazine I purchased in LA. Yes, I thought I needed to start my blog with that and not “Oh my good I am only less than 3 hours away from Sydney” Although of course by the time I get a chance to post this blog, that will be history.

Oh and as I write like the third draft of this post it is raining outside and it is soothing to hear…

Do keep in mind I did start writing this during a very long flight...and continuing it after not getting any sleep since (the second draft of this post)

It was not until I was on my flight from Tucson to LAX did I realize that this was really happening that I was going to Australia. It was then I started to get nervous and wishing I got off the plane. But it was at that moment that the plane started to take off. I was reminded then how much I love flying. My father used to fly private planes and he took me flying once or twice. At that moment any second thoughts I had vanished.

I then get to LA which was overwhelming but at the same time I was awestruck at the beauty of LA, at least the very small piece of it I saw. Seriously, bright lights, tall buildings... I now want to go back to LA for a real visit.

In order to get to Quantas (and most other flights esp. international) I had to go outside. Don’t worry for those who need it, LAX provides a shuttle service to the different buildings.

If you have ever been there, you might now what I mean. If not, I’ll try to explain it…imagine tall buildings everywhere But not only buildings but imagine a dome (it is located in LAX, it is the main control center) and to go with it, imagine it is dark outside. No stars just the lights from the buildings and the bright colors coming from the dome. Also picture roads, everywhere, some even in the air! In the center the roads that are going in the air are tall poles that light up in bright colors!

Once I got through security, found my Quantas terminal, ate (Burger King which btw was my 3rd hamburger that day...haha and I think LA's Whopper Jr. tasted different from Tucson's) it was while I was waiting at Quantas that I had to fight back tears. I had just gotten off the phone with my mom (second time I had called her too since arriving to LA). Honestly, at that moment if there was an easy option for me to go back home I would have. I was freaking out and was unhappy. But I pulled through, I turned on my iPod (second song my iPod played was "Gardens and Graves" by Ryanhood. That song helped make me feel at ease again about the whole experience).

But all my doubts (for the moment at least) vanished once I got on to the Quantas flight. The plane itself was enormous esp. compared to the United flight! Since I've only flown commercial one other time and that was to Florida I was completely breathless by the sight of it all. As was with the lights I had saw earlier. What really hooked me was the free stuff on my seat i.e. a lanyard and socks, along with a pillow, blanket, headset. As soon as I was in that seat I was happy. The flight didn't feel as long as I thought it would. Quantas fed me well. It had movies I had been meaning to see (although I ended up only seeing one movie completely...lol), TV shows I like, and good music. :) I was happy as a clam

Then I get to Sydney, I had two very nice lady's help me through the whole process. I was nervous my ride would leave because it was taking awhile to get all my things. But my ride was there. I meet three other people going to Wollongong too, but only one girl going to Campus East

Sydney is very beautiful too. It has the same feel as LA does. I was watching something on the plane about Sydney and it showed all these things you can do there so of course now I want to do it all. We'll see how that comes about. I still need to feel settled here.

I have to say Australia (from Sydney to Wollongong) is sooo beautiful. It is green and the houses are sooo cute! The houses have character. I counted like 5 McDonald's that we passed from Sydney to Wollongong. Which reminds me of something humorous in LA. I passed 2 Starbucks's within like feet of each other. Kinda sucked for me because I had sworn off coffee till I got Australia

Honestly, if it wasn't for the accents I almost would think I was still in the states because America business are everywhere. For example, there is KFC, I saw a Sizzler (though of course I personally have never seen on in the states I have heard about it), Blockbuster, and even Budget car dealer which for some reason I had thought was a local Tucson thing...

As for my housing...wheelchair accessibility wise it isn't bad. The room is big enough. However, I do miss my dorm back at UA.

Oh, and the beach isn't next to the dorm although all maps say it is. It is harder to get to than the maps portray it. That was disappointing to find out. Just like the train station on the map looks close but it isn't easy to get to too.

I'm glad I have a week to get settled before orientation starts. I need the time to feel settled. Oh and I made a friend who is letting me use his ID so I can use the internet whenever. Otherwise there really isn't anything to do here, yet!

Monday I will be going to the campus to check it out. Although where you are it is Friday (very early) here it is Friday almost 8pm! (second draft)

Continuation of this blog (third draft…)

The rollercoaster continues. Which btw I am not a fan of rollercoasters…

Last night was hard for me and frustrating. For some reason by power chair will not charge. And it seems none of my outlets work which I don’t understand because my laptop had been working in an outlet so I tried my chair charger there and now that outlet won’t work…all kind of horrors of why it isn’t working ran through my head and continues. My biggest fear is that a. the something did happen to my chair while in transit and it needs to be fixed or b. that the outlets here cannot handle the power my chair needs to charge. Either way it doesn’t look good. By the time I realized the problem it was 10pm. No one around. Instead that was the breaking point and I cried my self to sleep. Mostly because being away from home is really hard. I’m used to knowing my family is just 30 minutes away so I really never had to worry about that. To look at this in a semi-positive perspective, I now know how it feels for other people being away from home, really being away, so I hope that can help me back UA when I meet people who are having a hard time.

I know this blog is meant to encourage people to study abroad. But I also think I should be honest with you. The whole point is for people who want to study abroad, in particular those with disabilities can have a basic understanding of some trials and tribulations you may go through during the process. But also everyone can go through homesickness and many other obstacles that I may come across. Plus most people you talk to about their study abroad experience is after, at which that time they can reflect back positively but can’t really remember the hard times. It is those that a person should be prepared for.

Just remember I can never fully convey the feelings that may come along with difficulties plus people handle problems differently. However, a person who is going to study abroad should remember that there will be difficulties but to never let that stop you. Even though feeling comfortable here is harder than I expected I know that I still have plenty of time for all that. I know that even with my chair difficulties that eventually it will work itself out. Pretty much because I remind myself it is because I have no other choice. Although that may sound negative it gives me strength in the knowledge that some how, some way I will get through this.

Safe Arrival

2008-02-07T20:06:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to make a quick post, I'm borrowing a computer so I can't write a long blog, but I am working on one. I have arrived to Australia safely!

"What one woman can do, so can another." Catherine Gaskin

2008-02-04T10:48:00.001-07:00

In just two short days I will at last be departing from the United States to Australia. To be completely honest, as Wednesday quickly approaches I get more frighten! I start to worry about everything. A couple of weeks ago I felt very confident. Where did that go? I am sure this is all normal though. I think a little fear is always good.

I'm feeling a bit overwhelmed too because I just got an email today from the UOW Study Abroad Office about things I should know before I arrive i.e. orientation. I have the same feeling I did when I started the UA, daunting because there is so much information to know. From learning I need to be aware of when my classes are and how to schedule them just right to finding out that UOW has a set limited usage of internet, i.e. accessing websites like MySpace might be restricted

On the very upside: I have pretty amazing news to share with you. I got a phone call from Quantas the other day; they are not charging me the $106 fee to take my second chair! How fabulous is that! From what I understand the contact person I had spoken to with the Disability Airlines representative, contacted Quantas and sent over the US guidelines about traveling with two chairs, which led Quantas to adopt the same policy as well!!!

Saying goodbye to people I think has been the hardest part of all this. I’m really close to my friends and family. They are the ones who provide me the support I need to make it through each day. They are all very excited for me so that makes this process much easier. Thank you to all of you, my friends and family for all your help!

My next blog will be from Australia!!! Which I hope comes with interesting stories to tell and awesome pictures!

Be Assertive

2008-01-23T09:25:00.002-07:00

I think the best tip I can give you, is to remember be assertive. Along with being assertive you should be persistent, patient, and calm. Sometimes during the process of planning and dealing with such things as airlines you will find yourself frustrated. In the beginning I had troubles with UOW getting back to be about questions I had. But I didn't give up, I was persistent, patient, and calm. For example, I would send emails with questions, and weeks would go by and I would hear nothing from them. So I would do follow up with another email, saying something like, " Just wanted to make sure you got my last email"or "It has been a few weeks since I have heard from you and I just wanted to check in to see if there is anything I needed to." I had to do this often not only with UOW but also with arranging my airline travel. Remember, arranging details and everything is up to you. I have found it helpful to keep an agenda and make lists so I make sure to stay on top of everything and get everything done.

I also say to be assertive because you will need assistance that people such as airlines may not be familiar with. If you don't stand up and be assertive about these needs you may be walked over.

This all may sound daunting to you. It did to me. However, just keep your mind focus on the end goals and the positive aspects that will come out of it in the end. Remember all things in life has challenges, but I like to think it is challenges that make us a stronger person.

Correction

2008-01-18T10:07:00.000-07:00

Since Quantas is not an American airline they don't have to follow the Airlines Carriers Access Act. They use it as a guide. Which means they can charge for taking two wheelchairs. I am in the process of working that out though. But just keep that in mind if you take an airline that isn't American; look up their guidelines and find out what services they will provide for you. If possible, it might be best to take an American airline to your destination.

Another correction...I went to Bank of America to do some investigation to see if it would be worth transferring some funds into a Bank of America account...and actually it could cost more. Although Bank of America only charges 1% to converge money, there is also $3 for withdrawing from a non-Bank of America. However, they do have a partner bank there...Westpac and if you withdrawal from their ATMs you would not be charged for taking out money. Yet since they didn't know how prevalent Westpac was there I decided not to and went to Compass. Which I found a much better deal. They only charge 1% for converging money however, they also don't charge from taking out from any ATM including internationally and they also refund international charges. All you have to do is save your slips and send them to Compass and they will give you back those fees. But you do have to send back the slips within 90 days. I felt it would be more convenient to have the option of withdrawing from any ATM.

Tip of the Day: Double check things. Like above, one person told me that Quantas couldn't charged, however, since they are not an American airline they can. It is best to ask twice then later find out there was miscommunication.

The Future Freaks Me Out

2008-01-14T17:03:00.001-07:00

As January quickly passes by (at least it feels like it t0 me) I start become more anxious and nervous about this adventure that I am going on.

I spoke to soon when I said that there was nothing to do now but to leave. My airplane ticket situation is slowly falling into place. As of right now it looks like I am leaving February 6th at 5pm from Tucson going to LAX for a five hour lay over. I have told this to my friends and they say, "that sucks." I however, am excited about it. Funny I know but since this is my first time flying alone and only the second time actually going somewhere on a plane I am excited and ready for this adventure.

I have been assure by my sponsor for the airline ticket that United will assist me from that plane to Quantas terminal. However, I like to be precautions so I plan on calling them myself to double check.

Here are some important numbers that you might find useful. Unfortunately they are only for the airlines I plan on using. However, it is important if you are traveling with a disability to contact airlines and let them know that assistance you will need.

Quantas 800-233-4414
United 800-241-6522
Delta 800-221-1212

I also learned just how important having contacts is. I called Quantas to arrange the traveling of my chairs (they want all these measurements i.e. height of the chair, weight, width, ect.). I was told by them that taking two chairs cost extra, about $150. I didn't think that sounded right esp. since I really need both to get around. I explained that to them but they told me from their point of view I didn't need both (as if they know me?!?). However, I didn't think it worth arguing right then and there so I contacted Cyndi (please see past post for contact info) and asked her. She did some research for me and found that I shouldn't be charged. Only if you are taking a specialized chair for likes sports or mountain use can they charged. Under the Airlines Carriers Access Act airlines cannot charge. Cyndi also gave me a number to contact if I run into difficulties. Here it is: Disability Air Access: 800-778-4838. If you get problems with airlines because they are not provided the reasonable accommodations you need contact them.

Tip of the Day: Make sure to start making a list of important contact information. So far I have number for like the place I will be staying at, a repair shop for my chair, and Cyndi, ect.

Yucky Shots

2008-01-06T15:15:00.001-07:00

Hey I hope everyone's holidays was good. I haven't posted in awhile because there really isn't anything else to do right now except leave...

I went to the doctors the other day and I had to get three shots! I still need to get one more. You should check on that now too if you plan on traveling because for example the hepatitis A shot requires two shots but they need to be spaced by two months.

I'm still waiting on my plan tickets....I'm a little nervous. I had a nightmare about it a couple of weeks ago. I dreamed that it was time to go but I had no tickets.

I'm also trying to figure out how to get all the things I need in two suitcases and one carry on. Any advice?

Tip of the day: Start making copies of important papers ie birth certificate, passport. Also get a traveling pouch. In case you lose your passport at least you have a copy of it with you. Don't put the copy and the original passport together.

Do you have any questions?

Who I Am

2007-12-14T22:41:00.001-07:00

After the last two blogs I realized I really haven’t told you much about myself. For some of the people reading this blog you really don’t know me so I thought it would be a good opportunity for me to tell you a bit about myself. It is after all my favorite topic. haha.

Where do I begin? Well my name is Amanda. I enjoy long walks on the beach….. just kidding. Well that is one thing I love to laugh. I think laughter is the best medicine.

I’m kind of crazy and weird. Something most people love about me.

I have horrible grammar abilities and I’m thankful for spell check.

I love drinking green tea (Tazo) and watching Grey’s Anatomy.

I heart Starbucks.

I’m very talkative.

I’m very motivated and when I set my mind to something it will usually happen, eventually.

I’m a planner. I would be lost without my planner. I dislike doing things at the last minute.

I’m almost always fifteen minutes early to everything.

Spending time with my family and friends is my favorite thing to do. I would be lost without them.

So there you have it 10 random facts about me.

But here are some more serious things…

I’m adopted. I’m South Korean. I have two brothers and one sister. I’m the youngest. I have a genetic disorder called Oesteogensis Imperfecta. It has to do with the lack of collagen. It makes my bones brittle. Although my sister and I are not blood related, we both have the same disorder. Because of my disorder I’ve needed to use a wheelchair to get around all my life. Most people’s first reaction is, “that sucks.” It does sometimes. But my parents raised me to believe that if I put my mind to it I could do anything. It goes with my motto on life, “Where there is a will there is a way.” It has served me well as I am the first one from my family to go to a 4-year college and go out of the country!

My mother is my role my model. Being in college has allowed me to grow my appreciation for all that she has done for me. My father passed away in a plane crash when I was in middle school. It was the hardest thing that has ever happen to my mother. But she pulled it together and has raised us all on her own. I can now really understand all that sacrifices and things she has done for us and truly appreciate that.

I’m quiet optimistic as well. Some people say that I’m also naïve. I don’t think so. My optimism, my belief that if you want it you can do it, has served me well. It hasn’t allowed any obstacles get in my way. Like with college, finding funds was an obstacle but I didn’t let it get in the way. I put in the effort, the time, the determination, and found scholarships, applied for FAFSA, and got a job. Just with my upcoming traveling experience. Being in a wheelchair has brought considerations that most people don’t have to think about i.e. getting on the plane, making sure my chairs get to Australia in one piece…But I am not letting that get in my way.

Neither should you. If you want to do something, if you want to study abroad you should! Don’t let cost or obstacles get in your way. Find a way to overcome them. I’m not saying its going to be easy. In fact it probably will be difficult. But look at this way, its better to say that you tried than saying, “well I could have but I didn’t.” Don’t let reasons stop you. There will always be reasons. Life is so short. Live it.

I’m just saying if I can do it, you can too. I truly believe that. Please if you still need some more encouragement contact me. Maybe you have some worries? Maybe I can help you work through them.

Today’s advice: Be aware that fees will be coming up through your process. Which is why I recommend if you can save money, apply for scholarships, save extra scholarship money from other semesters, and/or ask for sponsorships early, ect. One thing I wasn’t quiet prepared for is all the different application fees that come up. There is your application fee for applying to the University, once accepted you have to pay another fee (like a down payment), there is also housing fees i.e. application fees and for me I just received another fee since I’ve been granted dorm housing (a down payment). The fees I am sure vary from program to program just be prepared they might come up. If it is a concern, ask your advisor to tell you all the fees that may come up so you can be prepared when they do.

I hope you all have a wonderful winter break. I’ll have limited internet access during break. So if you contact me or I don’t post many blogs that is why.

Planning Advice

2007-12-13T16:58:00.002-07:00

I seriously am getting more excited about my trip to Australia. Although sometimes the excitement is mixed with fear.

I got my ISIC card yesterday. I wasn't going to get one but Gilman requires it. However, I'm really glad I got it. It was only $22 but $26 if you need your picture taken...and it gives you insurance not only medical but luggage too. In addition to great deals like discounts at museums. You can get the card at the STATravel office in the Union or online too. ISIC isn’t just for Australia you can use it for many different countries.

I'm at the stage right now that I'm starting to find some of this planning a little daunting. Every time I think I got all my basis covered I think of something else I need to get done. However, I'm glad I have started early because I don't have to panic about getting this stuff done. After all I still have two months!

Getting Started:

First, decide where to go. Make an appointment with the Study Abroad Office. Also, their online website has information like estimated cost about different destinations. Be prepared that once you decide a place you need to fill out an application with things like an essay on why you want to study abroad, transcripts, and letter of recommendations. Next, you will need to find money to pay for the experience. See last blog for info. That is probably why planning early makes it easy to not only get the application taken care of but also keep up with school work.

Get your passport now! Even if you’re just considering you should get your passport now if you don’t have one. It took mine like 4-5 months to get here. It costs a lot more for it to be rushed.

Save GenEd classes too. Even if you are not sure save them because it is easier to transfer to UA credits. If you decide not to study abroad your Senior year can be easy with just GenEds. However, if you choice a program that is related to your major or minor you may not have any problems getting classes to transfer. For my major however, Family Studies and Human Development there is no particular program.

Once you have been accepted and ready to go here are some things to consider…

Make sure you talk to your bank about costs i.e. when you use your card in a foreign country. The advice I’ve received so far is to take your ATM card and just make sure to withdraw a large amount of money to make the fee worth your wild. (Although this is for Australia…it may be different advice for another country. Ask your Adviser)

In addition, banks like Compass and Bank of American only charge a convergence fee. Whereas Wells Fargo also charges for using an ATM that isn’t theirs. If you have a Wells Fargo account you may want to transfer some funds to Compass or Bank of America.

I'm doing reading about Australia the study abroad office provided me this great packet about Australia and various other sources i.e. safety and health stuff I should consider (i.e. from CDC website).

I'm also making appointments to make sure I'm in good heath before going. Luckily, Australia has not mandatory shots I need. I'm not too fond of needles.

For those traveling with a disability I found this amazing source! The website is http://www.allaccesstravel.com. It is owned by Cyndi Segroves who uses a power wheelchair and travels. She provides resources for those with disabilities who plan to travel i.e. helping you find transportation. I emailed her last night and she gave me a call today. She gave me some great advice. For example, if your chair is damaged the airline will pay for damages. Just make sure you have the person who brings you your wheelchair go with you to baggage claim. Also if they try to tell you they can’t give you accommodations i.e. a aisle chair to get into the plane tell them something, “Oh really because according to Airlines Carriers Access Act you do.” Airlines do not have to follow ADA so mentioning it is meaningless.

Next blog more about who I am, why I am studying abroad, and why I think if you want to, you can!

*Please note the advice I've given does not cover everything that you may need to do. It just some general advice that I think might be useful. As things come up I will be sure to post any other advice I have found helpful. For specific detail about what you need to do your Study Abroad Adviser will be your best source. Once again remember don't be shy to ask questions!

Exciting News and Some Advice

2007-12-12T00:14:00.004-07:00

As my Fall semester winds down I can finally enjoy the fact that I am going to Australia next semester. I can also focus more on planning for this trip. Granted, at this point there really isn’t any major things that need to be done, just some last minute details.

I just received some exciting news. I received the Gilman Scholarship. If you plan on studying abroad I strongly encourage you to apply for it, as will your adviser will too. Also, apply for the Travel Grant offered by the University of Arizona Study Abroad and Exchange office. I also received that grant as well. Bringing my total so far to $5,000 I have earned by just writing an essay. Think of this way, you can spend just an hour (if that) filling out an application and writing the essay (which you can use for more then one scholarship) and just doing that you can earn somewhere between $500-$4,000 dollars depending on the scholarship. Specially if you consider minimum wage is $6.50 and hour… You can’t beat that.

One of the biggest concerns people have about studying abroad is the cost. I am here to say that you really can find scholarships. Although you will be told this repeatedly from people, it really is true. If you take the time and effort, you can find money to cover the expenses. Your greatest resource for scholarships is your study abroad advice. Most of the scholarships I have applied for and (the two I have received so far) have come from my adviser. Another advice is to ask for sponsorship, which I did too. With that, I just wrote a letter explaining who I am, that I was studying abroad and needed some financial assistance. Although I only heard back from one person, that one person is providing me funding for my airline ticket. You’re asking, who do I write? Businesses. Local businesses are probably preferable.

Also, ask around. About everything and anything. Ask questions. That is one of the most important pieces of advice I can give you about planning your trip. You’ll find that maybe when you first go in to explore your options you may not have many questions, but then as you continue planning you start thinking of more questions. Ask them. You should be as prepared as possible. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or would like some advice. I don’t bite.

I also suggest start planning early. It makes it easier. It allows you to slowly ease into the idea as well as cover all your bases. I started my planning over a year ago. Although I had to because being in a wheelchair brings special circumstances that needed to consider. Anyone who plans on studying abroad with a physical disability really should start early. It gives you time to ask different Universities about their accessibility. That way you can make an educational decision about which program would be best for you. For example, my two idea places had been to either England or Australia (yes, the accents had a factor…hehe). Luckily, I started early, asked good questions, and found that England really isn’t wheelchair accessible. Australia on the other hand is. Remember your ability is different so you may not be able to base your experience on someone else’s but it is still helpful to ask other people their experience. For example, I’ve personally have spoken with two people who have physical disabilities about their experience in Australia (which they said was positive). When contacting Universities about their accessibility be specific about what your needs are. Don’t be shy about it. It will only make your trip more difficult. If your not comfortable right now talking about what assistance you need, start practicing now. Self-advocating will be one of your most important tools. It will be difficult if not impossible for people to give you the right information if you are not clear to them what you need.

I have tons more to say and as the days, weeks, and months, go by. I will be sure to continue posting advice, my adventures, and anything else. Again, don’t hesitate to contact me if you have any questions. If I don’t know the answer I’ll try to help you find someone who does.

To Come...

2007-11-28T22:56:00.000-07:00

I've noticed that I have had 7 views to my blog...I promise I'll have blogs to come...but I don't leave for Australia till February so I hope you check back then.