Sydney: A Hopeful Place Past Review

By (History & Communication, Villanova University) for

Boston University: Sydney - Sydney Internship Program

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I have learned to judge things less quickly, to navigate myself around busy cities and up and down the coast of a county, to work real hours at an internship and to treasure all connections made, even halfway around the world.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 0-2 weeks

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The material itself was not too different, only in that it was more angled towards teaching about the perspectives of the host country. The teachers were different in that they were much more open with students about subjects, discussions and general behavior that would be somewhat questionable to some in the U.S. It was a nice change.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

It took awhile to reach what program to go on, but she passed on great knowledge from students who previously went to this country or on this (or related) programs. I felt like I knew a significant amount going into my program from her that made the process much simpler.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* Food:

Grocery store was right down the road which was convenient. Also many restaurants of varying cultures throughout the city.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Went on a few day program trip to Melbourne, and a few day class trip to the capital city, Canberra. Both were unique and positive experiences that helped to teach my about the variety in Australia's culture. The program was also extremely helpful with helping us to go on more fun trips around Australia.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

Sydney was a safe city, I did not feel threatened at any time there. Also our apartment/dorm was extremely safe and well kept.

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

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)

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • the internship- mine was with Time Out Sydney
  • the friends I made, American, Australian and International
  • our advisors and teachers were very helpful
* What could be improved?
  • interaction with Sydney Uni students
  • have all classes one part of the semester, separate from the intership period
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Take advantage of ever day you have there, rain or shine.