Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Take Me Back! Past Review

By (University of Rhode Island) - abroad from 02/08/2016 to 06/17/2016 with

The Education Abroad Network (TEAN): Townsville - James Cook University

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
It was absolutely worthwhile. If I could do the whole thing over, I wouldn't change a thing. I learned a lot about myself and all of the things I was capable of doing.

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.

The courses were very rigorous but absolutely rewarding. I loved that graduate and undergraduate students were taking the same classes. It really gave me a perspective about the world I would soon be entering.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

TEAN was there for us every step of the way, and I never felt that I couldn't reach out for help if I needed it.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I lived in George Roberts Hall, and I absolutely loved living there. The general atmosphere was so friendly, and the RA's made me feel welcomed and included! I just wish that the dining hall food had been better, since the rooms don't have kitchens.

* Food:

If you're a picky eater, make sure to live in a dorm with a kitchen.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

At JCU there is a health clinic on campus. After I cut my knee while snorkeling, I was able to be seen right away and prescribed antibiotics. It was a very easy process.

* Safety:

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)

I spent a decent amount of money on food because I wasn't happy with the dining hall services. Otherwise, the amount of money you spend really depends on how adventurous you decide to be. The campus is at least a half hour bus ride away from the main part of Townsville City.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Local 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?
  • The people
  • The location
  • The classes
* What could be improved?
  • The dining hall food
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I wish I knew that it wouldn't be that difficult to make friends.

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!