Joe Mikhaeil – Spring 14
Where are you currently living?
Queens
What was your major?
Marketing and Management
Why did you choose to study away at NYU Sydney?
I always wanted to visit Australia and learn about it’s culture since there’s no other country like it and I got to fully immerse myself in the country in every way.
How would you describe your experience at NYU Sydney?
Other than amazing? I’d say it was everything I was looking for and more. I always wanted to visit Australia and learn about it’s culture since there’s no other country like it and I got to fully immerse myself in the country in every way. I met some great people who have become lifelong friends. I went on trips that I never thought I’d be able to and saw sights that I didn’t know existed. Sydney (and Australia in general) has something for everyone to enjoy. The staff is second to none and the excursions they plan have become memories that I’ll never forget.
What was your favorite class and why?
Definitely the history class with Toby. He was an awesome instructor (and a former rockstar) and I learned so much about the country’s history and its current culture which helped a lot with my dealings with Aussies.
What was your favorite trip, excursion (Student Life or class related)?
It’s nearly impossible to pick just one but if I had to I would say Milson Island. It was a trip right at the start of studying abroad and this is where we began to form friendships and connections with everyone there. The activities there were so fun and the sights were breathtaking. I wish we could’ve went again towards the end of our time in Sydney to end the trip full circle.
Where are you currently working/studying?
I work at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in an administrative role.
When thinking about your experience at NYU Sydney what stands out to you most?
It was such a different experience that I don’t think I’ll be able to have again so I’m glad I took advantage of it during my time at NYU. Many of these other study abroad sites are easy enough to visit in the future but Australia is a little far so I’m glad I had the freedom to experience the food, fun, people, and everything else Australia had to give during the one time in my life when I had such freedom (and time) to enjoy it fully.
How has your experience at NYU Sydney impacted life after college?
During the course of my career I’ve met so many people who are either from Australia or have vacationed there and it becomes a great point of discussion. No matter how recently I met the person, we would reminisce about our times in the land down under and laugh as if we were lifelong friends. It’s a great way to make connections and NYU Sydney gave me so much material for stories to tell at parties.