Feeding kangaroos and wallabies at the Australia Zoo!

Name: Mary O’Neill | Major: Biology | Semester: Summer 2025

Adventure has always called to me. I love the feeling of freedom- of mystery and discovery, of living and learning. These were the initial reasons behind my desire to study abroad, and with my future plans in veterinary medicine, this program seemed like the perfect fit. I never could have guessed just how much this trip would, in just 2 short weeks, change my life in the ways I needed it most.

Hopping on a 16 hour flight halfway across the world was not how I thought my summer would begin. I applied to this program out of curiosity and a long-standing interest in exploring Australia and New Zealand’s native wildlife and beautiful scenery. Nothing could have prepared me for the incredible things that I would witness and learn. Every second was intentional and engaging, and I can say for certain that the academic experiences and exposure to field work provided through this program will stick with me throughout my life. Not only did we attend
lectures from experts in their fields on both native wildlife (including veterinary care and
rehabilitation) and farm management practices, but also on unique cultural practices, such as
those of the Maori tribe of New Zealand. In New Zealand, we explored stunning mountain
ranges, boated through the winding Dart River, and visited wildlife centers, stables, and farms to
learn about sustainability practices, veterinary medicine, and animal management. We got to
observe these practices in motion and consider how our actions back in America could be
improved to better care for our animals and the environment. Standing in the midst of Doubtful
Sound- one of the most majestic and serene areas of the world- put life into a perspective that I
had never considered before, and inspired within me a renewed passion for protecting the earth
that we inhabit. Our adventures in Australia included learning about wildlife unique to the
continent and visiting the Australia Zoo, where we saw some incredible animals and visited the
veterinary facilities where they rehabilitate animals that have been found sick or injured. Every
lecture was an experience- classes turned into an adventure that I could not step away from.
Additionally, watching practical application of concepts (some learned in Arkansas, some across
the globe) solidified academic knowledge in a way that a classroom cannot. The things that I
learned on this trip will continue to benefit my academic life, and give me a greater desire to
continue learning.

Each moment has left its impact on me, from the academic adventures to the little
snapshots of laughter with people I now call friends. There was something beautiful in every
second- something unique and fun to explore, a new way to grow into myself. This goodbye was
a difficult one, but I am so grateful for everything that this program provided. I have never felt so
small- just a speck on this massive planet we call home- and yet I have never felt more joy or
passion in my life. So to the students who are intrigued, excited, or even a little nervous- take a
chance. This has been a core life experience for me, and as I look back upon everything that I
saw and learned, I know that I would take the opportunity over and over again. Adventure called,
I answered- and I am better now because of it. Your adventure is out there somewhere, and I
encourage you to go find it.