While separated by an ocean, common experiences still unite HUA&HUG Although Harding University in Australia (HUA) and Harding University in Greece (HUG) were separated by thousands of miles of ocean, the students involved had similar experiences. They adapted to a new cul ture, participated in incredible activities and made lasting friendships. When the HUA students touched down in Sydney after a 14-hourflight, itstill had not sunk in that theywere in the "land down under." Reality came quickly as the bus that picked them up traveled on the left side of the road and as they saw the Sydney Opera House, the Harbor Bridge and vast stretches of beautiful beach. While the HUA students enjoyed Sydney, the HUG students were becoming aquainted with Athens. Although they did not have to cope with drivers on the wrong side of the road, they did have to adjust to a citywith no traffic laws, as we ll as to hearing a different language. Touring was a major part of both programs. The HUA group toured nearly every weekend, seeing much of New South Wales, Queensland and Canberra, the capitol city. They even went to Alice Springs out in the outback. The HUG students walked the streets of Jerusalem and visited the ancient cities of Ephesus , Corinth and Bethlehem. Everywhere they went they were immersed in the Bible. "The best thing about HUG is seeing the Bible come to life. 1will never forget going to the Mount of Olives and praying where Jesus prayed," Heather Seniker said. The international programs are not just about seeing the sites. They focus on building lasting relationships. The HUA students made friends at the Redlands Church of Christ and with some of the nei ghborhood kids, while the HUG group bonded with members at one of the Athenian churches. Emily Breegle, a junior, said, "I loved the time we spent with the Redlands and Warringah congregations. It was so special to grow close with my brothers and sisters living on the other side of the world." - B.J. Marshall, Rebecca Doran From the hilltop fortress of Mycenae, Elizabeth Sewell looks overGreece. Around1400B. C., Mycenae was the center of the Aegean civilization. Climbing down Ayers Rock in Central Australia, the HUA students learn to depend on each other. Ayers Rock is believed to be the largest monolith (sing/e standing rock) in the world. HUAAND HUG 29 •
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