BU Sydney Internship Program: I Want to Go Back. Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

I took 3 classes; 2 of them were fantastic, one of them was disappointing. The workload was perfect for being abroad without being a joke. The grading system was fair. The teaching methods were pretty similar to the ones I'm used to. A lot of the classes incorporated really great field trips.

On-site administration of your program

Very accessible support network of staff located right next to the dorms. Approachable and knowledgeable.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The neighborhood wasn't in the best area of Sydney, but that doesn't mean much. I still felt very safe. The location was right by Central Station which was really convenient for transportation, as well as being in the center of the city made walking to many locations easy. Classrooms were located right next to the dorm which was very convenient. Nightlife is very accessible from this location, in a variety of neighborhoods. The location overall was fantastic. The dorms themselves were pretty nice. It was annoying that there are only elevators and no stairs, but overall there were no issues. Most items were provided. Living with all American students and having class with them was fun and a good bonding experience, but it really inhibited the meeting of Australians. Which is a big part of why many people go abroad.

The food is similar to American food. It's just more expensive. There are many good restaurants in the area that are also affordable. It's very near Chinatown, so there are a lot of really good Asian restaurants.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

The entire program goes on a four-day field trip to Melbourne, which is one of the best parts of the program. A lot of the classes include smaller field trips, including one to Canberra, one to the Blue Mountains, and ones within Sydney itself. The program arranges a lot of events, such as a Sydney Harbor Cruise at the start. There are also optional events organized that the students can sign up for and pay for, such as an abseiling/canyoning trip to the Blue Mountains. While I was there, the vibe among the students on the program was very friendly and most everyone knew one another. It was easy to find people to go out with or do cultural activities with.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

To get into the dorms, you have to swipe your key to get into the front door, then swipe again to get into a second door, then swipe to get into the elevator, then swipe to get into your room. There is a security guard checking i.d.'s at the door every night. It feels like an excessive amount of security at times. The neighborhood feels safe however you still have to be careful; I had one friend who got into a fight, and one friend who was hit by a car while walking. Both of them had complications and difficulties with the judicial system and the health system, respectively.

(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

• the administration, staff, and professors
• the location

• the paying for internet situation