The Best Study Abroad There Ever Was Past Review

By (Marketing., Miami University) - abroad from 06/10/2011 to 11/24/2011 with

ISA Study Abroad in Newcastle, Australia

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned to make new friends. I have so many new friends from abroad and after abroad. I really put myself out there now and try to meet everyone I can. Going abroad made me so much more confident in my self.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? None

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

When I studied abroad GlobaLinks did not have advisors over with us. They not have academic advisors. I believe this would have made my experience so much better.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

Student aids were very helpful on campus. They always wanted to help us with any issues that we had and introduced us to so many students!

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I LOVED International House. I met so many people from so many different countries. I would recommend this living arrangement 100%!

* Food:

Grill'd is amazing!!! Try the sunset burger for a unique Australia experience. Vegemite is alright once you get use to it! Definitely try anything that locals recommend

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Everyone in Australia is so nice and welcoming. You will feel just at home from the moment you arrive. Besides the accents!

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

GlobaLinks provided us with a great healthcare program. I never had to use it thankfully!

* Safety:

Security on campus was great and overall felt really safe in the country,

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)

Australia is very expensive. I had a lot of support from my parents which I am so thankful for. GlobaLinks has lots of scholarships you can apply for so definitely look into those!

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $250
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Use excel to keep track of what you spend and set budgets for what you want to spend each week. Let yourself splurge sometimes!

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
  • Apartment
  • Hostel
* 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
  • Americans
  • International Students
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with?

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Bridging Cultures Program
  • Opportunities to travel
* What could be improved?
  • Academic Help
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? What to pack. That was the hardest part for me picking what to take and what to leave at home. I ended up having to throw some stuff away.

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 Networker
An active student leader, it was important for you to network abroad as well. Once overseas, you sought out student clubs, volunteered with local organizations, or attended community events. You encouraged your friends join you, and often considered how you could reflect your international experiences in a resume.