Australia- The best time of my life Past Review

By (Whittier College) - abroad from 02/11/2016 to 06/24/2016 with

The Education Abroad Network (TEAN): Wollongong - University of Wollongong

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned an entire different culture from my own. It was so worthwhile to immerse myself in a country I had little knowledge about before getting on the plane. I learned that the world is greater and more knowledgeable than microscopic piece of it that we live in. I was able to make lifelong friends I would have never made had it not been for TEAN and the University of Wollongong. It was hands down the best experience of my life, and I wouldn't trade it for the world.

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 classes were very academically challenging, and I was able to also learn a lot about Australian culture through them.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

Everyone was very friendly and helpful if I had a question.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I loved where I lived! Everyone was so friendly, and it was really easy to immerse myself in the culture.

* Food:

The dining hall always served nutritious and delicious food.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Most of the friends I made throughout my time abroad were Australian, so I felt very intergrated.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

Wollongong felt like a very safe area no matter the time of day or night. Everyone was very nice and helpful if you looked lost and needed help.

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

TEAN was very helpful along the way whether it was time to apply, just before going abroad, and throughout the trip. The application process was set up so that it was straightforward, and a staff member was there to help if you had any questions. Everything was set up perfectly before leaving so it was an easy transition from the States to Australia. During my time abroad, the local team member was easily accessible if any questions or concerns arose. They also did a good job of keeping in touch and planning fun events throughout the semester.

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 had a meal plan which cut the costs down on my day to day living a lot.

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $50-$100
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? I would suggest to prepare to buy meals for a couple days in advance so that you can budget how much you want to spend ahead of time instead of buying food constantly which adds up.

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
  • 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?
  • The friendly staff
  • The ability to immerse yourself into the culture
  • The structure of the program
* What could be improved?
  • I wouldn't change anything
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? TEAN did a very good job of explaining everything you needed to know before leaving for Australia, and before arriving at your host university. They had a very comprehensive orientation, and I was able to use the knowledge I gained during my time in Wollongong.

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!