Before starting my formal degree classes, I spent several months in the EAP program at Southern Cross University.
When I look back now, those EAP months were some of the sweetest, warmest and most memorable moments of my life in Australia. I took many photos during that time because everything felt new and meaningful.
My official university classes later were busy and challenging, and I did not take many pictures during that period. So the memories that stay with me most clearly come from my EAP days. These moments have become very special to me.
I still remember the first time I walked into the EAP classroom. Everything felt new and a little overwhelming. The English instructions, the projector slides and the unfamiliar faces around me all made me nervous. I kept wondering whether I could keep up and whether people would be friendly. I was also worried about whether I was good enough. But the moment I sat down, the atmosphere became warm and welcoming. That simple moment helped me relax and feel safe. This was the beginning of a beautiful chapter in my study journey.
My EAP class felt like a small international family. We came from different countries, but we connected so naturally. We studied together, helped each other with assessments and shared snacks during breaks. It never felt like a normal class. It felt like a comforting space where no one judged your English and where everyone tried to understand each other with patience and kindness.
Among all the memories, graduation day was the most emotional for me. We took so many pictures together. Some were funny, and some were serious, but all of them were filled with happiness. Our teachers stood with us and smiled with pride. Then my teacher looked at me and said something I’ll never forget:
“You are a very smart student.”
I don’t know why, but those words touched me so deeply.
Maybe because I had always doubted myself.
Maybe because I didn’t expect to shine in a foreign country.
Or maybe because hearing that from a teacher who truly saw my efforts made me feel proud of myself for the first time.
I almost cried that day.
After EAP, I moved on to my real university courses. They are much harder and more serious, and I didn’t take many photos during that period. This is exactly why my EAP photos and memories are so special. They captured the time when everything was new, exciting, warm and full of hope.
It was the period when I learned to believe in myself,
adapt to a new country
and build friendships that still mean so much to me today.
EAP was not just about learning English.
It was about learning courage.
Learning confidence.
Learning how to begin a new life.
And for that, I will always be grateful.🥹
