One thing that I am particularly grateful for from studying abroad is the people. I have met so many great people that I wouldn’t have been able to otherwise. I find it amazing that people from all over the world, despite their different backgrounds, can share so much in common and somehow cross paths in a remote city in an unexpected country. It puts everything into perspective; we truly are all so similar and so different, and how beautiful is that!
I am learning so much about other cultures as well, something that I previously didn’t understand the depth of. One of my close friends here is from Northern India. She shares the complexities of her country and culture with me, showing me how India is far different from the way my Western perspective might have imagined it. We often exchange stories about out different homes, and yet always find something in common. It’s fate!
Although Australian culture is somewhat similar to American culture, it’s really fun to search out the subtle differences. I especially love when I find a word that is pronounced differently, or a fun new slang word. Here’s my working list:
- Ranga – Someone with red hair
- Jumper (Pronounced Jumpa) – Sweater/sweatshirt
- Aussie (Pronounced Auzzie) – An Australian person
- Bogan – Australian version of a redneck
- Bottle-o – Liquor store
- Op shop – Thrift store
- Mozzies – Mosquitoes
- Bathers – Swimsuit
- Thongs (also called pluggers) – Flip flops
- Car park – Parking lot
- Servo – Gas station
- Snag – Hotdog wrapped in bread
- Bangers and Mash – Mash potato and sausage
- Crikey – said when something surpising happens
- Eskys – Cooler for food and drinks
- Howzat – usually shouted, and used when something good happens in a sports game
- Reckon – Often used as a way to say ‘think’ or suggest something (Ex: I think we should go. I reckon we should go.)
- Keen – A way to say that you would be up for something (Ex. She would be happy to come! She would be keen to come!)
- Mocha (pronounced Maka)
- Tuesday (pronounced Chewsday)
- ‘Oh’ is pronounced as ‘Ah’ (Ex: Oh, okay! Ah, okay!)
Anyways, I am having the best time here. I know that I still have a couple more months until I go home, but I never want to leave! Being here has really opened my eyes to new people, places, and ways of life. Reminder: there is beauty in everything and everyone! Take the time to enjoy it!
DU Abroad 