Participant Reflection: Dylan Steenkamp

Australian Gap Year reflection and photo of the blue mountains

Well it’s the Australia Day (Australia’s national day) long weekend Downunder so we thought we would catch up with Dylan Steenkamp from Botswana to chat all things Australia and his time spent at argubly one of Australia’s best schools in regional New South Wales.

Q. Dylan, straight to the hard questions. What was the initial reason to take a gap year in Australia?

A. I wanted to give myself the opportunity to see the other side of the world, experience different cultures and lifestyles, and learn skills in which would help me later in life, such as managing my own funds, organizing my holidays and generally living away from my comfort zone back home. 

Q. Your school, tell us a little about your role and experiences so far. 

A. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here. I spent most of my time working in the prep school which taught me so many valuable skills such as patience and responsibility and for that I am grateful. I was also able to coach a rugby side which became a highlight of mine as I have a deep passion for the sport therefore, I loved sharing my knowledge to young rugby players in the making.

Q. Everyone on their gap year see’s some of Australia and I guess you’re no different. It is Australia Day, so tell us about your adventures across Aus.

A. While working at the school, I have been fortunate enough to see places of Australia which never crossed my mind on school excursions such as Canberra and Manly. 

I was also fortunate enough to travel around Australia during the school holidays and visit such wonderful places such as Cairns. One of my biggest highlights during the holidays, that I will remember for years to come, was when I dived the Great Barrier Reef. It was absolutely jaw dropping, eye opening and all around amazing. The colours were mesmerising, the aquatic life was astonishing. I would recommend to anyone who comes to Australia to visit the Great Barrier Reef. 

Q. Finally Dylan, what has this programme taught you about yourself. 

A. I am so glad that I got to take part in the programme because I feel I have grown so much while being away from home and have made good friends that I will keep in contact with once my time in Australia comes to an end. My time here can only be described as incredible. A once in a life time experience. I wish I could do it all again!

 

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