Week 2 has been an interesting journey. As the weeks go on, the workload has definitely picked up with exams and assignments, but that hasn’t stopped me from going out and experiencing the cultural diversity that the locals offer. One of the places where I really felt this diversity was in Sydney’s Chinatown. The atmosphere is electric, with neon signs lighting up the night and a mix of locals and tourists strolling around. There’s a wide variety of goods for sale—trinkets, clothing, and accessories from different parts of Asia, most of them handmade. It’s the perfect spot to unwind with friends after class, sampling new flavors and soaking in the lively vibe of one of Sydney’s most unique locations.
When I first walked down the street, the smells of dumplings and skewers immediately hit my nose, making me hungry right away. I grabbed a skewer and enjoyed the live music under the glow of beautiful lanterns. Everywhere I turned, I could hear a mix of dialects, accents, and languages, each with its own uniqueness. It made me realize just how diverse Sydney really is. This experience motivated me to explore areas outside my usual neighborhood and connect more with the local culture.
We were fortunate enough to have the opportunity to meet Bucknell Alumni Anthony Massaro, a partner at KordaMentha Real Estate. He shared his journey, starting from his time at Bucknell, where he joined the ROTC, through his military service, and into his career in real estate. Growing up with little to no privileges, Anthony pushed himself out of his comfort zone, using the network he built in the army to gain valuable insights into the real estate industry.
His story is unique and inspiring because it truly demonstrates how determination and resilience can take you further in life. One of the most memorable things he shared was the importance of being genuine when making connections with people. He emphasized that people are “human,” and that resonated with me deeply. It made me realize that building relationships isn’t just about what you can gain from others; it’s about showing genuine interest and care for the person. This approach fosters longevity in any network, something I’ll definitely keep in mind moving forward.
I learned so much from him and am grateful to have met someone as incredible as Anthony.
