Upon my arrival in Melbourne, Australia, I had no idea of what to expect. Yes, I was told many things and was given lots of tips of what to expect before moving here, but when I landed three weeks ago, all the things I learned beforehand went out the window. I had no idea what I was doing, where I was going or what was in store for me.

To my surprise, however, I wouldn’t want it any other way. The beauty of studying abroad as an exchange student is that there are hundreds of other students in the same position you are. So not only are you clueless with a bunch of other people your age, but the students and faculty know you’re all clueless, so they are more than happy to help you out with whatever it may be (cough, asking where the free sausages are, cough).

The amount of kindness and patience I have experienced from local Australians and other international people while here has been limitless. It makes my heart full knowing that we live in a world filled with people who are more than willing to help others. Thanks to my lack of having any idea of what I’m doing, I have discovered that the world is filled with good people. Sometimes it takes being put into a position of vulnerability to figure these things out.

Next time you happen to be in a situation or place that makes you feel clueless, do as the Australians say and “don’t stress.” Take a deep breath, relax and ask for help. You’ll be surprised at the kindness that exists out there.