As a 23-year-old French Canadian from Quebec, I recently took a leap and embarked on an 8-week marketing internship with AP Group in Melbourne, Australia. Moving to a new place, especially across the world, felt both exciting and intimidating. While I was excited for this new chapter, I didn’t quite anticipate just how much stepping into a new environment would transform me both personally and professionally. Here’s what I’ve learned so far about the benefits of putting yourself in a new environment.
Personal Growth
When you leave your familiar surroundings, you’re pushed to adapt in ways that just wouldn’t happen at home. I’ve had to navigate different social norms, get used to new ways of communicating (Aussie slang is no joke!), and adjust to a totally different rhythm of life. In my case, it’s not just about learning a new culture—it’s also about navigating a language shift. Though I speak English, French is my first language, and there are times when expressing myself can feel like an extra hurdle. Conversations at work have pushed me to improve my communication skills and taught me to be more patient with myself.
Every day feels like a learning experience, whether it’s figuring out how to get around the city or understanding the unwritten rules of the workplace. It’s not always easy, and there are moments when I feel unsure, but these small adjustments are building resilience. It’s empowering to realize I can grow and succeed even in unfamiliar situations, and I’ve learned that fitting in is more about being open to new experiences than knowing everything upfront.
Professional Development
Working in a new environment also presents incredible opportunities for professional growth. At AP Group, I’ve been able to immerse myself in projects that would have been out of my reach back home. I’m learning firsthand how Australian businesses operate, gaining insights into different marketing strategies and working with a team who brings fresh perspectives. This kind of experience can’t be taught in a classroom—it comes from being present, engaging, and learning from the people around you. Plus, the global perspective I’m gaining is something that will enrich my career long after I leave Melbourne.
Building Global Connections
One of the most exciting parts of being in a new environment is the opportunity to meet people from different backgrounds. The friendships and professional connections I’m building here are priceless. Working closely with professionals has significantly broadened my knowledge of marketing and business.
These relationships are not only enriching my experience in Australia, but they are also creating a global network that I can tap into in the future. In an increasingly connected world, having international contacts is a significant advantage.
Expanding your Comfort Zone
I won’t lie—being far from home can be hard. There are moments when I miss the warmth of my everyday life back in Quebec. But these moments have taught me the value of pushing through discomfort. Melbourne is teaching me to embrace uncertainty and to see every challenge as a learning opportunity. For example, my first week at AP Group had its challenges, but once I found my rhythm, I saw how well I could manage unexpected situations. Expanding your comfort zone doesn’t just make you stronger—it makes you more adaptable and open to the possibilities that life throws your way.
Conclusion
Putting yourself in a new environment, whether for work, study, or simply for a change of scenery, can be life changing. It’s about more than just experiencing new things—it’s about growing as a person, learning to adapt, and building connections that can last a lifetime. With my time in Melbourne coming to an end, I’m grateful for the experiences I’ve had at AP Group and excited to see how they shape my upcoming adventures. For anyone thinking about stepping outside their comfort zone, my advice is simple: Go for it. You’ll be amazed at what you learn about the world—and yourself.
Written by Anne-Marie Breton, Marketing Intern – AP Group
AP Group are the leading pharmacy experts in Australia and specialise in helping buyers find the right pharmacy and attaining the best legal advice to support their purchase.
We connect existing owners with over 5000 ready and eager investors via our cutting-edge online Data Room. Our Data Room keeps confidential listing data secure and allows buyers to make informed decisions on each of our pharmacies for sale.
AP Group have the unique and highly specialised experience with providing contract and other legal advice for Pharmacy investors.
About the author:
Meet Anne-Marie Breton, AP Group’s newest marketing intern! Hailing from Quebec, Canada, Anne-Marie has effortlessly slotted into our team, already bringing fresh perspectives and innovative ideas. Fluent in French and English with a bit of Spanish, she’s pursuing a Business Administration degree at Laval University.
When she’s not working on her marketing skills, she enjoys swimming, running, travelling, reading, and alpine skiing.
Anne-Marie has added a touch of fun to our office and makes us all feel good by laughing at our jokes – and has been pretty good at sliding in a few of her own.
We’re excited to have her on board as we continue to grow and innovate in our marketing efforts.