As the Sydney program concludes, we asked our students, pictured left, to name their favorite activity during the past eight days. Many said they couldn’t possibly choose just one aspect of the program or their free time, as every day held something new and exciting.

Here’s a sampling of what each students cited:

John Byrnes: Hiking in the Blue Mountains with guide Muliyan

Akela Gabbadon: Koala & kangaroo encounter in Wildlife World

Jason Lentz: Hiking in the Blue Mountains & meeting Muliyan

Liz Lozano: Dancing in King’s Cross

Stephanie Marshall: Blue Mountains & meeting everyone in the group

Alex Pillow: Tribal Warrior cruise and Clark Island

Ja’stevia Sallet: Fast ferry over to Taronga

Shawdae Thomas-Smith: Encountering animals, esp. kangaroos, in Wildlife World

Keara Ziegerer: Clark Island, “our private island”

And lead professor Steve Holland says he too must pick Clark Island as his highlight. Steve’s wife, Sallie, accompanied him on the trip and bonded with the students with her witty comments and easy-going attitude.

The students fly out to Christchurch, New Zealand tomorrow to meet up with Dr. Heather Gibson and other students for their next adventure: the 3.5-week New Zealand program.