Australia: A Dream becomes Reality Past Review
By Eric T (Film Production, Keene State College) for
CISabroad (Center for International Studies): Gold Coast - Semester on the Gold Coast
My study abroad experience was well worth it and if I had the opportunity to do it all over again I would. I learned so much and gained many valuable skills. I have become more major and independent since my journey abroad. I tend to look at the world in a more global view instead of just looking at it from the perspective of my life in the small town I live in. This experience has made me want to travel all around the world and see what else it has to offer. This was a rewarding and great experience. One that I will never forget, always cherish, and am proud that I took part in.
Personal Information
| How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | 0-2 weeks |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
The workload at Bond University was a far amount. There was not a ton of work to do, however, the work that had to be done was time consuming and required much attention. The grading system is different. There grading system is as follows HD(high distinction)85-90, D(Distinction) 75-84, C(credit)65-74, and P(pass)50-64, F(Fail)0-49. The professors are very tough graders. The class system is structured in a different format as my home school is set up. Most classes have a lecture(medium-large class size) and the a practical/lab(small class size). |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
They were very helpful and informative.They had very good knowledge of host country and were very friendly. The program size was good; not to large, not to small. My expectations were met. |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
The housing was overall good. The rooms where clean and decent size. I got lucky and had one of the larger rooms in my dorm hall. I always felt my belongings were safe. Every Tuesday we had a maid service come around and change the linens and clean the room which was really nice. Sheets and bedding were all included. I was roomed with another American student. Most of the students in my dorm hall where American. The international students that were in my dorm were first years. Most were in their first semester of college. My floor was quiet. The view from the dorm was really good overlooking the campus. I didn't really need to buy anything for the room itself. Everything was mostly provided. |
| * Food: |
The food was good, however, I feel there was not enough options. The menu got boring and really repetitive week after week. It had some variety but not enough. The cafe is small compared to my home college but it wasn't ever to crowded due to the small amount of students who attend Bond University. The best place to eat was at the main cafe. There is another cafe which has other items but I used that mostly for drinks, such as milkshakes, smoothie, ext. |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
There were many cultural events and attractions to go to. The school was always holding some sort of event or gathering every week. |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
The overall saftey of my host city and campus was really good. I never felt unsafe or as if I did not belong. I had no issues while I was abroad concerning saftey. My best advice is to just stay with a large group of friends and everything should be fine. |
| If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? |
Yes
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Finances
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* 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) |
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Other Program Information
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* Where did you live?
Select all that apply |
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* Who did you live with?
Select all that apply |
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A Look Back
| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | My advice to any students considering joining this particular program abroad or on their way to studying on the Gold Coast, Australia would be to take everything in and enjoy the moment. My time abroad flew by and I'm so glad I took the time to enjoy everything. Don't let anything get you down and do as much as you can do. Australia has so much to offer and this experience can change your life for the better if you allow it. Never be afraid to jump outside your comfort zone because if you don't you will miss a lot. Overall just enjoy your experience and don't worry about anything. Your there to have an experience of a lifetime and to gain as much knowledge as you can and experience something different. Don't waste your time worrying. |
