Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Academically Uninteresting Internship Program in Downtown Sydney Past Review

By (Brandeis University) - abroad from 08/24/2013 to 12/05/2013 with

Boston University: Sydney - Sydney Internship Program

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I would do a program at Sydney University, a large school with challenging classes

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 1 month - 6 months

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The academics in this program were an absolute joke. With the exception of the sports module (not the course on sports management) the professors were underprepared and presented the information in arguably the most boring way possible.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

A great location, but an awkwardly put together building/ living environment

* Food:

The food in Australia is awesome

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I happened to make Australian friends, but most people on the program only hung out with Americans from the program

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

If I could do it again, I would be vaccinated before I left the States. Not for Australia, but I went to Asia and spent $500 on vaccinations in Oz

* Safety:

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? No

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)

Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Happy Hour

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with?

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • The location was killer
* What could be improved?
  • The academics were a complete joke
  • The building you live in is new, but wasn't designed to be lived in
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? That if I had really asked for it, I would have been able to get an internship in my preferred area (economics). They find these placements difficult so they tell everyone that they don't exist. But if you push for it, they will set you up in a better work environment

Reasons For Studying Abroad

To help future students find programs attended by like-minded individuals, please choose the profile that most closely represents you.
The Networker
An active student leader, it was important for you to network abroad as well. Once overseas, you sought out student clubs, volunteered with local organizations, or attended community events. You encouraged your friends join you, and often considered how you could reflect your international experiences in a resume.