Peter graduated as a teacher in the United States, but finding a job there was not easy. When he saw an ad seeking qualified teachers in Australia, he took a chance and moved to Sydney. A two year contract turned into two more years. Then two more, and so on.
I liked it here. I really didn't want to go back.
Although there were some new things to get used to, like shops closing at midday, the drinking culture, and no baseball on the TV, Peter liked the laidback lifestyle of 1970's Australia.
Teaching in multicultural schools across Sydney's Western suburbs was a highlight of Peter's career.
What an incredible experience. I taught literally eighty three different cultures.
Now a stand up comedian, a former student from Peter's first year of teaching recently came to one of his shows.
And she's fifty six, which freaks me out. When I taught her I was less than half her age now!
Hear Peter's story in the final episode of My First Year on Aussie Soil. The series is hosted by comedian Suraj Kolarkar and produced by Danny Giles. If you've missed any earlier episodes, catch up on these stories of people who have found their feet in Australia, as they share their first impressions and the highs and lows of life in a new country.
Follow My First Year on Aussie Soil in the SBS Radio app, Spotify, Apple podcasts or wherever you listen to podcasts.
