Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Best four months of my life full of beaches, culture, and adventure! Past Review

By (College of Charleston) - abroad from 01/04/2016 to 05/01/2016 with

The Education Abroad Network (TEAN): Gold Coast - Bond University

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
My time abroad was definitely worthwhile. I got to see so many new things and the most important thing I learned abroad was how to travel sustainably and to be aware of the tourist activities you partake in before you do so.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 2 weeks - 1 month

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Most people take less classes when abroad which makes the work load less but the classes themselves are sometimes challenging depending on what you take.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The TEAN staff in Australia were always readily available to answer questions.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I lived off campus but in walking distance. There are housing options on campus and on the beach as well, which are all good choices.

* Food:

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

In classes there was a mix of American and Australian students so you definitely got to meet locals. There were also a lot of cultural events in the area that TEAN always makes sure students are informed of.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

Never once did I feel unsafe while abroad.

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

There is always something to do on the Gold Coast but sometimes when one is traveling and unfamiliar with the area it is hard to learn about all the local events going on. TEAN makes sure everyone is aware of local events by posting on the Facebook page! Additionally, TEAN staff is always available if there are any concerns ranging from WIFI issues to travel ideas.

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? I honestly do not remember and although everything is more expensive in Australia the exchange rate between the USD and AUD is in the United State's favor (at least when I was abroad Spring 2016). Plus there is no tipping.

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

  • Americans
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • International Students
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with? 0

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • location
  • local/cultural events
  • housing
* What could be improved?
  • Honestly cannot think of anything (except I wish it could be longer!)
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Do not bring so many clothes!

Reasons For Studying Abroad

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The Outright Urbanite
A social butterfly, you're happiest in bustling cities with hip people, and took advantage of all it had to offer. You enjoyed the nightlife, and had fun going out dancing, and socializing with friends. Fun-loving and dressed to the nines, you enjoyed discovering new restaurants, shops, cafes, and bars in your host country.