Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

The experience of a life time! Past Review

By (University of Maine - Orono) - abroad from 09/02/2016 to 12/18/2016 with

CISabroad (Center for International Studies): Gold Coast - Semester on the Gold Coast

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Life long friendships, more travel experience, education, and experiences I couldn't get anywhere else. Absolutely worthwhile!

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.

I am still in shock months later about how amazing my overall experience was. CIS prepared me for the international travel with predeparture web seminars, and were always available to answer questions. Once in Australia, my sight director couldn't have been better! She was always available to help us out when we needed it, and acted as our "second mom" as we liked to call her. Bond University, and CIS have given me the experience of a life time.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* 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:

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

CIS was so helpful in any questions or issues we had. The excursions were also amazing, and the site directors were the best!

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? Save as much as you can before you go abroad!

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

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

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • Americans
  • International Students
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?
  • Friends
  • Site Directors
  • Excursions
* What could be improved?
  • Cost
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? The off campus housing had limited wifi and meal plan, and it seems as if living on campus may have been the better option.

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.