Penn Abroad Ambassador Faruk Ecirli

Program:

• PGS: Writing Health and Healing in Botswana

• GRIP: Business in Sydney

Ask me about...

Other students should ask me, "How was it like not being home for almost 6 months?" As an international student studying in the US, I have navigated the complexities of being away from home for extended periods, but this year was particularly unique. I had not been back home since after returning to campus from winter break.

From January 15th until August, my time at home amounted to just two nights. This prolonged period away from home tested my adaptability. It was challenging to be away from my family and familiar surroundings for such a long time.

This experience taught me valuable lessons about independence. I learned to balance professional responsibilities with personal well-being, maintaining connections with loved ones despite the distance. Future students considering similar paths should ask me about the emotional and practical aspects of such an extended time away from home.

My Experience Abroad:

My internship experience in Sydney, Australia, was my first exposure to a professional work environment and a different work culture. As a business major, I had the opportunity to apply my coursework in a real-world setting.

Adapting to this different work culture was a critical learning curve. I learned the importance of flexibility and understanding regional business practices, which are crucial skills for any global professional. This internship was an invaluable step towards achieving my long-term career aspirations in international business.

Other Highlights:

During my time in Sydney, several experiences stood out as unforgettable highlights:

• Visiting Kiama and the Kiama Blowhole: One of the most thrilling moments was visiting the picturesque town of Kiama and being showered by the Kiama Blowhole, one of only three such natural phenomena in the world (the other two being in Hawaii and Mexico). Witnessing the power of the ocean and the stunning coastal scenery was awe-inspiring and a perfect example of Australia’s natural beauty.
•  Australian Football League Match: Attending a major Australian Football League match was another incredible experience. I witnessed the intense rivalry between Collingwood and Hawthorn, which has been ongoing for decades. The electric atmosphere, passionate fans, and the unique aspects of the sport provided a deep dive into Australian sports culture.
• Watching The Terminator at the Sydney Opera House: Watching The Terminator for the first time in the iconic Sydney Opera House was a surreal and unforgettable experience. The blend of classic cinema and the grandeur of the Opera House made it a unique event.