Riding the Waves and Chasing Adventures: My Aussie Exchange Experience

Franziska Dreher

Autumn 2025 Study Abroad student from Hochschule Fresenius

Germany

Surf’s Up: Learning to Surf on Aussie Shores

When you think of Australia, surfing is one of the first things that comes to mind,

and trying it was at the top of my to-do list. I joined a weekend surf camp not

long after arriving, and it turned out to be one of the most unforgettable

experiences of my exchange. Learning to ride the waves for the first time was

challenging and exhilarating. Falling (a lot), laughing, and finally catching my first

wave, there’s a special joy in embracing something new with both arms and a

salt-sprayed smile.

The camp was more than just surfing; it was a chance to connect with other

exchange students, share stories around the bonfire, and fall asleep to the sound

of the ocean. It reminded me why studying abroad isn’t just about the classroom

—it’s about trying something you’ve never done before, even if it means face-

planting into a wave a dozen times.

Beach Life: Everyday Escapes from the City

One of the most incredible things about living in Sydney as a student is how easy

it is to access the beach, even during the week. Whether after class or on a free

afternoon, hopping on a bus or ferry takes you to some of the world’s most iconic

coastlines.

From Bondi, with its buzzing energy and coastal walk, to Manly, just a scenic ferry

ride away, or the quieter charm of Bronte, there’s a beach for every mood. Some

days I go solo for a peaceful walk, and other times I head out with friends to

swim, picnic, or watch the surfers. The number of beaches within reach of the

UTS campus is mind-blowing, and it has made every week here feel like a mini

holiday.

Exploring the Tropical North: Cairns Adventure

Over mid-semester break, I set off on a trip to Cairns with some fellow International students—a place that’s been on my bucket list for years. From snorkeling at the Great Barrier Reef to hiking through the ancient Daintree Rainforest, every day offered a new kind of adventure. We took a day cruise out to the reef, where I saw vibrant corals and swam alongside tropical fish for the first time. It was like stepping into a real-life nature documentary. Back on land, we explored Kuranda Village via the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway and spent an afternoon chasing waterfalls in Atherton Tablelands.

The highlight? Floating down the crystal-clear Mossman Gorge, surrounded by

lush green rainforest—pure magic. The trip was packed with iconic sights, but

also full of laughter, shared meals, and that amazing feeling of discovering a

completely different part of Australia.

The Semester in Pictures: