AIFS: Sydney- Macquarie University Photo

Fallin' for OZ: An experience in Australia that truly changed my life

A Study Abroad Program Review For

AIFS: Sydney- Macquarie University

Program Information

Learning does not begin or end in the classroom. To help you get a true taste of local culture, a wealth of cultural activities and excursions are included in your program fee.

Famous for its palm-fringed white sandy beaches and clear azure seas, Fiji is paradise come true. Cultural roots and traditions are... More

Provider: AIFS
Hosted at: Macquarie University
Location(s): Sydney, Australia
Year Founded: 0
Website Take me there!

Review By:

Heather B. (N/A, Illinois State University) on June 13, 2011

Overall Rating

Review Photos

AIFS: Sydney- Macquarie University Photo

Personal Information

* Start Date: 2011-02-02
* End Date: 2011-06-29
How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? None

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

School was more laid back and theory based. It was a nice change from the typical American system.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

Although difficult to reach at time, my on-site administrator was organized, efficient, and easy to talk to.

* Housing:

* Food:

Save money and cook your own food.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

Very safe.

* Home Institution Advising:

How well did Illinois State University prepare and support you for your time abroad?

Finances

* Money: How easily were you able to live on a student's budget?

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? 300 a month.
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? spend it on travel!

Language

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? None
If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition?

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
  • Apartment
  • Hostel
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
  • International Students
  • Local Students
  • Host Family
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students

A Look Back

* If you could do it all over again, would you choose the same program? Yes
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? "We spend too much time living in the ‘what if’ and need to learn to live in the ‘what is.’"
* What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile? Independence, self-discovery, organization, social confidence, newly found passion for career.