Saskia Willig

Mixed feelings

21-02-09

Hi! My name is Saskia Willig. I am 23 years old and currently studying Dutch law (Master Privaatrecht and Master Strafrecht) at Erasmus University, but in a few days I will be leaving for Sydney to study there!

Fourteen days before my departure: I am leaving all the people I love behind, for a period of almost six months. Why did I want to do this? I have a nice life now. I have a good and flexible job, lovely friends, and a lot of co-curricular activities and hobbies. Above that, I have two little brothers of three and seven years old and I am building a good relationship with them. I see them twice a month and when they see me they run into my arms. Will they recognize me when I come back?

These days it is all about Sydney. People around me ask me all the time: “Are you ready to go to Sydney? Is everything arranged? When do you leave? Do you already have a room?” The answer is: NO!  I don’t have a room, I have not prepared everything and I still do not know which subjects I can apply for at the university. I am feeling a bit stressed out at this moment, and I have some hesitations. It must be because I don’t know what to expect. I am leaving my comfortable environment and certainties of life for a completely new and different environment. I have never been away for this long in my life. I need to remind myself that it was me who wanted to do this and that I have always dreamt about this. Studying abroad is supposed to be fun, however for now I am just scared. When I am in Sydney, I am sure it will be fantastic! Right?

One and a half years ago I started to prepare for my exchange. I felt my study time was not complete without one semester abroad. I have always wanted to go to Australia, especially to Sydney, as I have heard a lot of good stories about this city. Also, the subjects will be taught in English. This is the chance to improve my English skills, while enjoying a pleasant climate and the great atmosphere of this country. A few months ago my application forms for my exchange at the University of Technology in Sydney were approved. I applied for a visa and booked my ticket to Down Under. I am so excited, I am going to Sydney! Wohoo!

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