Nicole Ginsburg

School for Field Studies – Tropical Rainforest Studies – Yungburra, Australia (spring 2012)

My name is Nicole Ginsburg and I am currently a junior at Ramapo pursuing an environmental science degree. Not too long ago, for the Spring 2012 semester I studied abroad in North Queensland Australia on a research based program. Going into the program I had no idea what to expect, especially since it was going to be my first time leaving the country; not to mention it was also my first time flying alone!  Being a science major, I’ve had to work pretty hard to keep up with an intensive class schedule, however upon entering my program I really proved to myself exactly how hard and how far I can push myself to succeed at the highest standards. Not to mention the beautiful scenery and weather, or the amazing friends I’ve made all over the world, the knowledge I have been able to carry with me to this day has forever changed me as a person. Being able to live on my own for such a long period of time in such a different place instilled an enormous sense of independence and responsibility. I worked incredibly hard for the marks I made in my courses and I have never been more passionate about school and the direction I want my life to go. I want nothing more than to share my experience with anyone who will listen, in hopes that they will one day have an opportunity for an amazing adventure like mine.