James McCullough | Jan 21, 2024 | Management 290 | Weekly Reflection #1
The first couple days in Australia have been nothing short of extraordinary. From arriving in the airport last Sunday, to jumping into classes at UTS, and exploring different shops and restaurants in the city, the culture is vibrant and diverse. The difference between walking around the nearest city to my home, New York City, and downtown Sydney is blatant. The cleansiness of Sydney and the breathtaking landscape only advances my curiosity and urge to explore as much as possible these next two months. I have enjoyed my classes at UTS, specifically Australia Life and Culture, as it is key to learn about the roots of the society and the historical events that took place in Australia. The recent lectures and documentaries about the beginnings of Australia and its colonization period have been eye opening as we delve deeper into the complexities and nuances that have shaped contemporary life in Australia.
Displayed above was one of the stops on our walking tour of the Rocks District in Sydney central business district. This house is the oldest house in Sydney as it is still standing from when it was first built in 1793. It was interesting seeing this after learning about the beginnings of Austrailia in our Aussie and Life Culture class. 
This is a picture of the north end of Bondi Beach where there are tide pools and rock structures to sit on. I was able to take a quick trip to this spot on a rock ledge after class this week and relax for the sunset. I meditate from time to time and this was an amazing opportunity to do so. There were many local Australians playing steel drums and dancing off to the right (not pictured). People of all ages were dancing for over an hour which was radiating amazing vibes.
This is a picture from a local art studio in The Rocks District. Our class had a walking tour of the district, which holds symbolic value as it was the first place colonized by the British. The authors of these paintings are all Aboriginies, and they display the style of painting that has existed since the beginnings of Australian life.
Great blog! I really hope the box breathing helped you gain control!!!