Australearn: Lismore - Southern Cross University Photo

I discovered who I wanted to be and learned about myself from my Australia trip!

A Study Abroad Program Review For

Australearn: Lismore - Southern Cross University

Program Information

Southern Cross University proudly continues the tradition of this iconic constellation by helping future generations – both nationally and internationally - to find their way on their own voyages of discovery in an increasingly complex world.

Southern Cross University is an Australian public university. The... More

Provider: GlobaLinks Learning Abroad
Location(s): Lismore, Australia
Year Founded: 1989
Website Take me there!

Review By:

Marissa D. (Education, Tiffin University) on March 08, 2011

Overall Rating

Personal Information

* Start Date: 2008-02-10
* End Date: 2008-06-10
How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 2 weeks - 1 month

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Grading system a little harder than what I was expecting, but in the end I views the cultural experience much more valuable.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The international office was amazingly helpful. lots of resources to help get over or understand jet lag, homesickness, etc.

* Housing:

THE HILL WAS KILLER! That is the hill to get to the main campus. Also, live with as many aussies as possible! It makes the whole experience that much more fun!

* Food:

Heavy in the drinking area. Something I'm not too big into. Also, great at choosing a healthier life style--organics and gluten free options, fresh good foods.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Take an aboriginal class AMAZING! Talk to aussies travel the country learn about all the aspects of this great country. Not just the drinking. Learn about the rain forests--got to Carins feed a kangaroo, hold a kola, see the great barrier reef, look for emus, DO AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE to learn about this amazing country! Also go to RACE DAY! get a hat and dressed up HAVE A BLAST WITH FRIENDS!

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

I heard about some breakins before I went over so I didn't pack any REALLY valuable things I would miss if broken, stolen, or lost. But I don't remember any issues while I was there. Use common sense.

* Home Institution Advising:

How well did Tiffin 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)

Language

If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition?

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* Who did you live 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? If you have the slightest desire to travel and get college credit DO IT!! I always tell people live in the dorms at least one year and study abroad! Another alumi commented about money, that was amazing for me. Don't let money be the reason you don't go, you can always deal with that later. The experience could never be replaced.
* What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile? OH MY GOODNESS YES!! The friends, memories, experiences, and so much more made me the person I am today.