The End of My Exchange Year in Australia

I did not know the country, had no friends and everything was new. Now 11 months later, I have my whole new life and Australia is my third home (after the Czech Republic and United Kingdom). I already know that leaving everything behind will be one of the hardest things I have ever had to do.

My second semester in Adelaide was slightly different and maybe even busier than the first one. I have not stayed in the student accommodation as in my first semester anymore. Instead I lived with a host family in a lovely house in western suburbs. I had to deal with, for European standards, not very good public transport on a daily basis. Nevertheless, it was a great experience overall. I really felt like I have my own Australian family. Additionally, I got to stay outside of the rush of the city centre and could easily walk to lovely beaches nearby which became my favourite way to relax for a bit.

My favourite beach to go to for a swim and to relax

I got a job of a research assistant in a different lab at The University of Adelaide. I have spent my second semester working under the supervision Dr. Iain Searle. Our research team is dealing with methylation of RNA (ribonucleic acid) in Arabidopsis thaliana and other plant species. I enjoyed my time at work and I improved many of my skills that I might need in future as a scientist. Moreover, I was working as a waitress in a cafe. This second job was obviously very different experience from the scientific work. I have to admit that I have loved taking a little break from academia and interacting with various people.

In terms of uni work, my courses consisted of genetics, bioinformatics, evolution, cell biology and biochemistry. I really liked the Australian educational system at university and I think that I learnt a lot thanks to that. This week I finished my last exam which was the final part of my course work. I still cannot fully believe it but the university aspect of my exchange is over.

Outside of university work and two jobs I was trying to enjoy my free time as much as possible. All my friends, great weather, awesome trips and other stuff that AUS has to offer made this semester and actually the whole year an unforgettable one.

I have less than a month left in Australia now. I am really sad to leave everything I have on this amazing place. However, I know for sure I am not leaving forever. I will come back to Australia and it will be one of my homes forever. I will not say goodbye but see you soon!