I am absolutely loving my time here in Australia but it does not come without some struggles. The biggest adjustment I have had to make is completing all of my tasks that require a store or business before 4 in the afternoon. While some grocery stores are open till about 7 or 8, all of the restaurants on campus are typically closed by 5 or 6pm. In the states, I am used to going to my dining hall at about 7 or 7:30 for dinner but I do not have that option here. I have grown in the sense of relying on myself for meals more than I ever have before. Using food delivery services can be quite expensive so I typically cook. I have learned to make some new foods and I have improved my skills on making foods I have already knew. As crazy as it sounds, I didn’t really grow up making or eating grilled cheese so I learned how to make that! I have a lab class that ends at 5pm which makes getting food on campus somewhat difficult so I am typically cooking that night. I have met the most amazing person here and she is now my best friend. She and I have grilled cheese every Wednesday and it is now a set tradition. Adjusting my schedule to the new times is hard but it is totally worth it. I have more time at night to go out with my friends to a bar or club and have a good time while still being able to come back home and get enough sleep for the next day. I have not mastered the time adjustment but I know I am finding my way. My hunger schedule has definitely shifted so I am nervous about going back to the states to my previous schedule but I am not stressing about it too much because I am too focused on having the time of my life here in Australia!
