This was a trip I will never forget. I enjoyed seeing how different Australia looks from anywhere I’ve been in Florida, as well as how different the people act. All I saw everywhere we went was huge mountains. They were everywhere and so beautiful! The majority of the people we came in contact with were very nice and willing to help. I got the impression that Australians are very outgoing and friendly to strangers. That’s not necessarily the case where I’m from so it was a breath of fresh air to deal with such pleasant people.

Working with the turtles was something I really enjoyed getting to do because I had never worked with them beforehand. I feel like I learned a lot about them even though we were only there for two weeks. One of my favorite things I Iearned about them is how sensitive their shell is. I had no idea they could feel a back scratch, or any kind of touch for that matter.

If I ever get the opportunity to go back to Australia I am going to jump all over it. Going on this study abroad program has inspired me to want to travel to more places and experience other cultures.

It is Monday and we had our first actual work day. This morning began at 7:30, when I made my way to meet up with my fellow classmates to get on the boat that took us over to Fitzroy Island. This island is where the Cairns Rehabilitation Center is located.

As I walked to meet with my group, it was interesting to see all of the locals doing what they are used to doing each day, which is very different from what I’m used to doing. For instance, the driving on the left side of the road. People even choose to pass you on foot using the left side. I must say that was hard to get used to. I spent most of my time on foot confusing the oncoming walkers when I would try to pass them like we normally do in the States.

The boat ride to the island was so beautiful. I have never seen so many mountains, and so close! Meeting up with the team that works at the rehab center was a great experience. I enjoyed prepping the turtles’ food, even though it was a little gross at first to be ripping the heads off of squid and cutting fish into small pieces. I quickly got used to it and had fun feeding the anxiously waiting turtles, who didn’t seem to think it was gross in the least. My favorite turtle there was Margaret! She is about 75 years old, they said, and that is pretty awesome. She is so low-key and doesn’t mind much but as soon as you toss her squid she turns into a happy, energized creature. I will be going back to Fitzroy island tomorrow and I can’t wait!