Experiences.

One of my contacts here broached the topic of culture shock with me, then quickly added, "oh, our cultures aren't so different, you probably won't have to worry about it," and it was dismissed. On one level she was right. The similarities between the US and AUS have made my adjustment here quite easy. But there are differences, they are just subtle ones. And those differences can build up. Take how they drive on the left-hand side of the road. Yeah, its different, but its really not that big of deal; its actually kind of exciting. Like you are finally getting a chance to do something you never should do, or could do, back at home. But soon, it becomes something that can grate on your nerves, creating the itch in the back of your mind....

Honestly though, its not creating any issues, it only makes the comparisons of the cultures in your mind more realistic I think.

It also leads to an more honest examination of ones own life perhaps? We'll see. This is a big experience, and there are just so many facets to them. And because the cultures are so similar, I think I am worried that I will miss out on many of the experiences other interns may have in other countries. But i doubt that is true at the same time. All of our experiences are different, and they are all our own. As they says goes, life is what you make it. The same goes for experiences.