Australia: Dylan Finger (A New Experience)

A New Experience

Some of the first things that come to my mind when I hear Australia is kangaroos, vegemite, and surfing. Although I have yet to see a kangaroo (other than the stuffed ones in the museum), I have tried vegemite, and I have surfed Bondi Beach. I have done some surfing in Lake Michigan but no matter how “great” that lake is, it does not compare with my experience at Bondi. Not only is the water much warmer, but the waves are also way higher. So far I’ve gone twice. The first time I went during a pretty calm swell, so there wasn’t too much excitement to talk about as far as “riding” the surf goes; however, the second time I went was right before a “wicked” storm. This led to some incredibly tall waves and strong rips. It was an awesome experience and something that I will remember for a long time. Aside from riding some “sick” waves, I also met a local surfer named Collin who helped me catch some of my first waves and showed me some of the best ramen and street food spots in Bondi. I’m really excited to catch some more waves with Collin and explore some more of Sydney and Bondi. I’m also excited to be able to surf without the wetsuit, which I heard is going to be incredibly likely in the last few months of my study. Although I still haven’t seen a roo, I am checking “surfing” off my Sydney bucket list!

Dylan Finger

Major: Molecular and Cell Biology

Hometown: Oconomowoc, Wisconsin

Program: University of Sydney Direct Enroll