Great Expectations
Charlotte Bronte said, “Life is so constructed that an event does not, cannot, will not, match the expectation.” My experiences in Australia have completely exceeded any expectations I may have had. Somehow I’m in the 8th week of school right now and I’m not quite sure how time has passed by so quickly.
Before I got to Australia, I had some very scary expectations about the religiously run college I was assigned to. Boy, were my ideas ever wrong. The girls in my hall are amazing Aussies from all over the continent. One of my personal goals was to become immersed in culture and avoid being a superficial tourist. My friends have definitely helped me in that respect: I’ve spent weekends at their homes, met their families, shared their food, and talked about politics late into the night with them. The photo is one of Milo, a delicious Nesquick – like brekky drink that my friends introduced me to.
Academically, I expect myself to learn a whole lot of detailed information about the microbiology of infectious diseases. The class covers basic immunology, pharmacology, and infectious diseases, specifically those that are found in the Asia-Pacific region. Though it isn’t easy, I’m really enjoying the class because it seems like a great prep class for med school. While I’m here, I decided to fulfill one of my life goals: taking a photography class. By the end of the semester I hope to have improved my photography skills and be more confidant in my own photography abilities, especially when I present my work to others. So, in the interest of stretching my own comfort zone, enjoy the photo of Milo!