Name: Erica Butterworth
Programme: Ultimate Aussie
Dates: 8th November 2006 - August 2007

How did you feel before you joined the programme? Before I joined the programme I was concerned about turning up in a new country alone with no job or long term accommodation, but once I had spoken to Real Gap I felt a lot better as they were very helpful in answering all my questions and going through all the information that I needed to know.

What did you think of the programme? I think the programme is very good, as it provides you with a lot of things that can be a bit overwhelming to sort out as you arrive alone in a new country. The mobile phone and the bank account were great thing to have in the package. My destination (Sydney) met every expectation I had. It is a great city with lots to see and do! I remember the first time I went down to see the harbour bridge and the opera house, it was amazing, I couldn't believe I was finally there!

How have you benefited from your experience? I feel proud that I have come on my own to another country, made great friends and made a life for myself, even if it is for only 9 months. Now I feel I can tackle anything on my own!

What advice could you offer to someone considering this project? My main piece of advice would be to save, save, save before they come away and also to use their money wisely when they first arrive. My error was going out for breakfast, lunch and dinner everyday and not using the hostel kitchen. The money I saved disappeared fast doing this!