“G’day mate! (Good day mate!).” It means “hello” in Australian. You can use it between close friends. I had a great chance of staying in Australia for three weeks in January as I had won the first prize in Kemmy. Kemmy is Keimyung University’s English presentation contest for all freshmen who take Communication English class. The contest, which is held every year, motivates students to put power into improving English. It also provides a trip to study English abroad for 3 weeks. So, I could go to Australia from January 1 to January 23.

Before leaving for Australia, I was really worried about having difficulties in living alone in a foreign country. When I arrived in Australia, everything was strange to me such as people, food, life style, hot weather, and so on. But, it was a good chance for language training.

For 3 weeks, I went to Viva language school. In Viva, I took a “smart talk” course. It had various situational activities like traveling, shopping, and emergency. For instance, police officers visited my class once. They taught us dealing with dangerous situations and answered questions that I had been curious about. It was really an impressive experience.

I met many foreigners who came from many countries like Australia, Japan, China, and Thailand. So, I could learn their cultures. For example I got a chance to eat okonomiyaki, which is Japanese traditional food that my Japanese friends made. I cannot forget its taste.

I think Australia is the best place to live. “Aussie” is the name of Australian life style which is active and free. Most Australians spend their free time enjoying sports with family or friends and walking barefoot on the street.

I saw several attractive animals such as kangaroo, koala, and many kinds of birds. Australians like animals and the country is environment-friendly. City water was clean enough to drink. Also, Australia had wonderful scenery as beautiful as the world in fairy tales. Especially, the house where I home stayed was beautiful. It had a swimming pool and garden. The landlady was a very kind person, too. Thanks to her support, I could easily adjust.

Lastly, I’d like to say several things to students who want to go abroad. First of all, I recommend that you should experience the culture of that country that you visit. There is a way to practice English in the culture. If so, you can learn more practical expressions.

Second, apply to many contests which give you good chances to go abroad. How about participating in Kemmy? Kemmy provides a round-trip ticket, language school fee, and some money for home stay. Especially, the language school was great for me.

In conclusion, it was an unforgettable experience to me. I miss my Australian friends, landlady, teachers, and so on. Challenge Kemmy this year for an experience you will never forget!