you can't get bored in Oz! Past Review

By (Biology and Biomedical Sciences, The University of Texas at Austin) - abroad from 03/02/2015 to 06/27/2015 with

The University of Queensland: Brisbane - Direct Enrollment & Exchange

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I met so many people from many different countries whom I learned from many incredible things about their cultures. I loved how easily I was able to make new friends and the excitement of everything being new. I loved it and would certainly go back. Australia is amazing, such a beautiful country!

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?

* 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:

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 had a very inexpensive accommodation, which was $100 per week, so I was able to enjoy myself and not worry about money. Also, since the USD is worth a bit more than the AUD I saved a bit of money even though something seemed more expensive.

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $150-$200
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Get an accommodation that is cheap. there are very nice ones that are not that expensive, like my house. Share houses are cheaper than student apartments and dorms. Having a roommate also gives you a less expensive rent. Taking out cash instead of using your debit or credit card helps to keep track of the money you spend.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Direct Enrollment/Exchange

* Did you study abroad through an exchange program or did you directly enroll in the foreign university? Exchange

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Other
* 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
  • 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?
  • meeting people
  • visiting incredible places
  • learning about different cultures
* What could be improved?
  • nothing. it was awesome!
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I was a bit nervous about going so far away but once I was in Australia I didn't want to return home. Knowing I would like it so much would've made me feel less anxious.