Tessa Arnold, the Hokies Abroad marketing intern, writes:

Before going to Australia in summer 2011, I had never gone snorkeling. Although I had no experience, I thought, “Snorkeling can’t be that hard, right?”

So, our first free day on Magnetic Island, I chose to go on a boat ride with fellow classmates and snorkel to see local fish. I eagerly grabbed the provided mask, flippers, life vest and snorkel when we had the chance. I jumped into the bay close to the island and immediately panicked.

It turns out that without previous experience of snorkeling, I had no idea how to breathe properly through my snorkel. I rapidly swam back to the boat and only one thought came to my mind, “How am I supposed to snorkel on the Great Barrier Reef if I can’t in this small bay?!”

Tessa snorkeling the GBR

Later on the program, we traveled to the town of Port Douglas from where we would travel to the Great Barrier Reef. Luckily for me, after some introductory lectures from our expert field guide Jimmy White, snorkeling lessons were offered in the swimming pool at our lodging! The instructor taught me how to control my breathing and calm myself so that I could fully enjoy my snorkeling experience on the Great Barrier Reef. He also provided tips on what to do if water enters your snorkel or if your mask fogs up. Needless to say, one of my smartest decisions in life was to attend that helpful snorkeling lesson.

Finally, the time arrived to snorkel on the Great Barrier Reef. I could already tell how much more relaxed I was thanks to the snorkeling lessons offered in Port Douglas. I snorkeled with ease for several hours and soaked up the breathtaking views of an underwater heaven.

Since I went on the Hokies Abroad Australia program, I have snorkeled every chance I have! It has truly become one of my favorite hobbies.

For those of you heading Down Under soon, be sure to take advantage of the snorkeling lessons and opportunities for practice to ensure you enjoy your adventures on the Great Barrier Reef as much as I did!