Duke University Global Education Office for Undergraduates

Duke in Australia

June 15 to July 16, 2010*

* Please see the Program Schedule page for a more detailed itinerary, including information regarding travel to and from the program site.

The Duke University Global Education Office for Undergraduates and the Department of Biology will offer a 4-week, one course summer program focusing on the biogeography and culture of Australia. Based at the University of New South Wales in Sydney, the program travels to the Northern Territory, the Great Barrier Reef and tropical rain forest of northern Queensland. The 2010 summer program director and biology course instructor is Professor Paul Manos of the Duke Department of Biology.

The course will be taught on the modern, urban campus of UNSW, located in Kensington, a suburb of Sydney and in a variety of field locations. UNSW boasts first-rate academic facilities, with extensive recreational and sporting facilities just 20 minutes by bus from central Sydney. The capital of the state of New South Wales, Sydney, the largest and oldest city in Australia, is very cosmopolitan and offers a wide variety of cultural activities and entertainment. Situated on the southeast coast, Sydney’s harbor, with its famous bridge and opera house, is one of the largest in the world. During the program dates, the mild climate has winter temperatures normally ranging from the 50's to the 60's F.

Australia has truly spectacular flora and fauna. Majestic landscapes from desert to rainforest and coral reef form a spectacular backdrop for a fascinating ecology study. Continental drift, isolation, and high diversity of climates have contributed to the uniqueness of Australian natural history.

 


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Postcard from Abroad

Dear Office of Study Abroad:

The Australian culture taught me that there is no sense stressing over work and other life annoyances, but rather that you should concentrate on doing those things you love. Australians live life to the fullest, and hold family and friends in the highest regard.

I have used these ideals to travel and experience as much of the world as I can, while at the same time realizing just how important those close to me are. Additionally, I feel as if my semester has acted to limit the overall stress I feel while at school, which for many students can be overwhelming.

For those considering going abroad, I would highly recommmend doing a program that fully immerses you in the culture (i.e. living with a host family) and making plans to see as much of the country/surrounding countries as time permits.

– Avery Harrison

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Sydney Opera House

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