Past Review

By (Civil Engineering., New Mexico State University) for

University of Newcastle: Newcastle - Direct Enrollment & Exchange

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Absolutely, I learned a lot about myself while I was away. I learned a lot about different cultures, about independence and budgeting and overall I enjoyed myself. The hardest part was coming back home!

Personal Information

The term and year this program took place: Summer 2009

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The scheduling was very different, and I was not prepared for the classes I was enrolled in even thoguh I ha the pre-reqs. The grading systems were very different, relying mostly on tests and the teachers, generally, were not as considerate. Overall it was a stark adjustment ut well worth the experience

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I lived with 5 Australian students at a home I found through the UNC website. They were wonderful!

* 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)

Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Trasnport within the country is expensive and getting to campus will cost $3.20 a day if you dont live on campus. Food is more expensive. My advice would be to monitor spending if you are budgeting, the generic brands are a must when shopping and whenever possible pack food instead of buyign it places. i saved a lot of money by not eating out constantly!

Language

Language acquisition improvement?

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Other
  • Other
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • Local Students

A Look Back

* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I would absolutely advise going and exploring the country as well. Meet new people as often as possible and lsiten to their opinions. Experience everything you can and understand some experiences will cost you. Money will run short and so will time, but make the most of everything you have at your disposal and love the experience each and every day