It has been some time since I returned to the Sunshine State after my unforgettable semester in Sydney. A wave of humidity hit my face as I exited my plane, letting me know that I was finally home. Now, as I read my first blog post, I realize that the Cristina who arrived in Sydney…
Author: CTOPPIN
Blog Post #3: Sydney, My Second Home by Cristina Toppin
I am writing this blog post in late October, with only weeks to go until I fly back to Florida. As my departure date steadily approaches, I constantly feel a mixture of anxiety and excitement. I am excited to finally see my friends and family after five long months, what feels like an eternity compared…
Blog Post #2: Sand, Sun, and Shaking Up My Routine by Cristina Toppin
I am currently sitting in a hammock outside a hostel in Byron Bay, a Sydneysider getaway located along Australia’s Gold Coast. (Fun fact: The Hemsworth family owns an estate on Byron Bay, and many exchange students have reported Hemsworth sightings during their stays here.) It is exactly 9:00 AM. I’m on mid-semester break, and, after…
Blog Post #1: When You Wish Upon a Star by Cristina Toppin
I bought an overpriced journal at the mall by my apartment today. Why? Because I just had the most magical weekend ever. Was it because of the shooting star that I saw at Sawmillers Reserve, a secluded point which overlooks the Sydney Harbour? I caved into my superstitions and immediately wished upon the star to…
I’m Going to a Land Down Under!
This is the year of racking up miles and boarding passes. I explored Namibia for ten days through Rollins’ summer field study program and delivered my collaborative research on African textiles in Minnesota. Now, I am about to embark on a cross-continental journey yet again. My days will consist of unlimited sunlight, warm yet breezy…