Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

A Lifechanging Experience Past Review

By (Architecture., Miami University of Ohio) - abroad from 07/10/2011 to 11/21/2011 with

ISA Study Abroad in Newcastle, Australia

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned a lot about myself, other cultures, and what I want for my future. This was the most worthwhile experience I have ever had. I grew more in those five months that I have in 5 years.

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?

The house and housemates were amazing! The landlord wasn't the best at responding to our needs, though.

* 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:

I felt extremely safe in Australia. However, Newcastle had some bar violence.

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)

Everything is about 2-2.5 times the price here. Bananas, nuts, and alcohol were especially expensive.

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? About 100

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Other
* 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
  • 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?
  • Location
  • Opportunities for experiences like bungee jumping, travelling, scuba diving, surfing, etc.
  • Orientation week
* What could be improved?
  • Lower expenses
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? The cost of living was very high there.

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 Nearly Native or Trail Blazer
Craving the most authentic experience possible, perhaps you lived with a host family or really got in good with the locals. You may have felt confined by your program requirements and group excursions. Instead, you'd have preferred to plan your own trips, even skipping class to conduct your own 'field work.'