Sydney, Australia: You'll Never Want to Leave Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

At Macquarie you are expected to be a lot more independent with your studies than I was typically used to at home. Classes tend to be a lot bigger and there is less opportunity for professors and students to get to know each other, it is much more common for students to interact with their tutorial leaders. It is uncommon to go to a professor or a tutorial leader as often as I usually go at home, unless there is a significant issue students are expected to work out the material on their own. That being said, a professor's attitude varies from class to class. The smaller the class, the more involved the professor is with each student. Math and science lectures tend to be a lot larger, while subjects like English or history are smaller and more discussion-based. Be prepared to have only a two to three assignments in each class that add up to your final grade, most classes assign a paper or two then have a final exam to determine your grade. While this varies as well, it tends to be the norm. It's nice to be able to miss class when you want to travel, but at the same time it is important to keep up with the recordings of the lectures and not get stuck with all of it at the end of the semester. Academics are definitely different here from how they are at home, the more prepared you are for that change the easier it will be to adjust.

On-site administration of your program

My program's greatest strength is easily their orientation they provided. I felt well-prepared to dive into the new culture of my host country, and I felt that I had an advantage with all of the ways they prepared me. My program directors were always easily accessible if I needed anything or had any questions.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I would highly recommend Dunmore Lang College to any student deciding where to live at Macquarie University. It is located in an extremely safe area right outside the city, less than a minute walk away from a train station that takes you downtown. DLC is fully catered, so with a meal plan you don't need to buy any cookware. Pillows, and bedding are provided, once a week you trade your used sheets in for clean ones - no need to wash them yourself. Each room comes with a sink and vanity area with a mirror and cupboard space, as well as a closet, desk, bookcase, and cork board. Internet is included with your general housing bill, you are also guaranteed a free gym membership when you live at DLC. Most importantly the DLC community is extremely friendly and welcoming, DLC becomes your home and the people here become your family. There are always some study abroad students here, but the majority of the students living here are Australian, which gives you an amazing opportunity to dive right into Australian culture.

Living at DLC I had a full meal plan, I was always happy with the food. There are usually two to three main options at each meal, but there is always a salad bar and sandwich station as well. DLC does a great job of giving you variety, nothing got repetitive or boring. Dinner might not be your favorite meal every night, but at a dining hall of course the meal can't always be individualized to your liking. The Macquarie Center, located about a three minute walk from DLC, has plenty of restaurants, a food court, and a grocery store as well.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Orientation week at DLC was a fantastic combination of getting-to-know-you activities, parties, and bonding. That was my first opportunity to explore Sydney, and I don't think I could ever get bored downtown. My other favorite experience was easily going to my Australian best friend's house over April break, we clicked instantly when we both arrived at DLC and she insisted I come to her house and stay with her and her family for part of break. At the end of my time there I didn't want to go, I had an amazing time and I was so lucky to be able to have that experience.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

The Macquarie campus is very safe, but it is important to be careful in the city. I would never go out alone at night or come home by myself, nor would I let any of my friends go on their own. My friends and I always made sure to look out for each other and stick together. I was lucky enough not to face any health issues, but before you leave it is important to make sure you get a full supply of any prescriptions that will last you for the entire semester, and possibly even a little past when you expect to get home.

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

Select all that apply

• Dorm

Select all that apply

• Americans
• International Students
• Local Students

• Orientation Process
• Activities provided or suggested throughout the semester

• More accessibility to connect with past students from the program