Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Sydney was full of learning experiences and great opportunities! July 15, 2025

By (Psychology, Brandeis University) - abroad from 08/15/2024 to 06/12/2025 with

Arcadia: Sydney - University of Sydney

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned that in order to make the most of your time abroad- you must plan and budget. My courses of study appeared to be a second or third priority for my overall experience. I felt as if a "free-spirit" traveling a new part of the world.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 1 month - 6 months

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

I have no complaints about this program. I spent a year studying abroad with Arcadia Abroad at USYD and absolutely loved it! I traveled to so many places, tried so many new and exciting things, immersed myself in the Australian culture, and found my place as a university student. This experience couldn't have happened without the support of my home institution and the Arcadia Abroad advisors. Apply today for next semester to find yourself down under! P.S. don't take any level 3000 psyc courses if you don't have to.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

I had a very good housing placement in both semesters. Public transport is very accessible. Be sure to consult with staff members if you have any questions!

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Despite not having AC, the program provided a very comfortable and convenient space just outside of the main campus.

* Food:

There are an abundance of options! However, groceries are NOT cheap...

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Could not have been better. There are friendly faces all over campus. Reach out to professional staff through your program if you ever have concerns.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Full coverage.

* Safety:

There were no issues. I felt I always had a 'hand to hold' if any concerns came up.

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

Arcadia did an amazing job of providing me with the tools and experiential learnings to be successful. I had an abundance of support and guidance. I felt right at home.

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)

First semester was tough- as I had a lot of aspirations for traveling and eating out.. I got much better about budgeting a couple of months into the fall semester. I had a much easier time budgeting during the spring semester.

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $150
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Try to save your money for things you're really excited about--- this means not eating out every night! Learn to cook.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No
How much did the program encourage you to use the language?

0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language

English was the native language.

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? Advanced
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Advanced
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? Level 100 - Passed Spanish sequance.
How many hours per day did you use the language?
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? N/A

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
  • 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? 10+

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • The hospitality
  • The tight-knit community
  • The culture of The University of Sydney (student life)
* What could be improved?
  • Communications
  • More opportunities to connect with other abroad students throughout duration of program.
  • It could have been nice to have a faculty representaative on-site from my home institution.
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I know that I don't have an endless bank account. Also, as much as I love traveling and seeing new places, I can relax a bit and take time to enjoy and explore right where I am at. Sydney is a pretty special place.

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 Networker
An active student leader, it was important for you to network abroad as well. Once overseas, you sought out student clubs, volunteered with local organizations, or attended community events. You encouraged your friends join you, and often considered how you could reflect your international experiences in a resume.