Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Semester in Sydney: An Amazing Adventure Past Review

By (Sewanee: The University of the South) - abroad from 03/01/2018 to 07/01/2018 with

IES Abroad: Sydney Direct Enrollment - University Of Sydney

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Study Abroad was worthwhile. I learned the importance of getting to know everyone regardless of what they look like, what religion they practice, or what views they have. I also learned that the concept of family extends far beyond the ties of blood.

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

* 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

My program was very good at providing me with all the information I needed before, after, and during my stay. The office in Chicago also was quick to return calls and answer any questions from me or my family.

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)

Sydney is a pretty pricey city. If you don't cook much and prefer to eat out that will take a big chunk of your budget for the week. There are no dining options offered by either the apartments or the university. Also going out with your friends is quite normal so factor that into the budget as well.

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? ~$100-150
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Learn to cook! Attend events hosted through the apartments where you live as well as those on campus. Join clubs food is usually discounted.

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

  • N/A
* 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? 10+

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Events offered by IES Abroad
  • Academics of the University of the South
  • Central location of housing
* What could be improved?
  • Nothing comes to mind
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? A better understanding of budgeting and sticking with it.

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 Academic or Linguist
You went abroad with specific academic goals in mind; the program credentials and rigor of your coursework abroad were very important to you. You had a great time abroad, but never lost sight of your studies and (if applicable) were diligent with your foreign language study. Good for you!