If I Had the Money I'd Still Be in Australia! Past Review

By (Political Science and Government., Illinois State University) for

Edith Cowan University: Perth - Direct Enrollment & Exchange

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I realized how small the world truly is and all the possibilities it holds.

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.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

I went to Australia, and I felt the school I attended was on the same academic level, if not higher than, my home university. The international program, however, was a little slow to the draw. It would take a couple of days for an emailed question to be answered, however this is the only fault that I could find.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* Food:

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

The international program advertises a trip through the Western Exposure company if you go to Australia. DO IT!

* 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

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)

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? My home university, prior to departure, gave me a budget for living expenses and I feel like it was grossly underestimated. Food was so much more expensive in Australia, and I probably spent double if not triple what my host university budgeted.
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Budget in extra money for travel within the country you are staying.

Language

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? None
If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition?

Direct Enrollment/Exchange

* Did you study abroad through an exchange program or did you directly enroll in the foreign university? Exchange

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* Who did you live with?

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  • International Students
* Who did you take classes with?

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A Look Back

* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? You have to be able to manage your time, but that can be said of any academic program. Also, just because you're in Australia doesn't mean it doesn't get cold. Be sure to pack a few jumpers!