Australia=Best Decision I Have Ever Made Past Review

By (Film/Video and Photographic Arts., Ithaca College) for

IES Abroad: Sydney Direct Enrollment - University Of New South Wales

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I have gained a more global perspective and have grown more independent.

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 work load was less because more emphasis is placed only on a few exams, essays, or projects. It was a good experience to take classes in a different system than I was used to.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I was placed into a group residence in Coogee Beach. It was set up kind of like dorms. Bedding, furniture, cookware, internet, and cable were provided. The location was great and I always felt safe.

* Food:

I mostly cooked my own meals and occasionally got takeaway food. Depending on the item, groceries can cost somewhat more than they cost in the US.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

IES arranged a mid-semester trip to Cairns and Cape Tribulation, where we snorkeled/scuba dived the Great Barrier Reef, went to an Aboriginal cultural dinner, hiked through the Daintree Rainforest, ziplined, and went on a river cruise. IES also arranged an event each month which included a surfing lesson and an AFL game.I

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

I never felt unsafe. Like in any city, use common sense though.

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)

Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Budget out enough money for travel and weekends.

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?

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

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  • Other
* Who did you live with?

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

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