Life changing Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Classes were far more educational than I would have imagined. My professors were very knowledgeable and had impressive resumes. I learned and retained a lot from my classes.

On-site administration of your program

The CAPA staff is extremely professional and were there to help 24/7. They planned activities all the time and even had different native snacks in the office every week so we could get a taste of Australian food. I loved the staff and appreciate how at home they made me feel, even being on the other side of the world.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The housing could not have been better. We stayed in a serviced hotel in a fantastic area that was right next to a grocery store, the bus stop, places to eat - and was walking distance from my internship! (I lucked out ;] ) The hotel staff changed our bedding and cleaned our apartment every week. They also provided laundry detergent, shampoo, dish soap, etc., so there were absolutely no extra living costs. We had a large living room, kitchen, and dining area as well as cable TV. The only heads up I would give future students is that it is a little far from campus, but they provide travel passes so it's not too bad.

The food in Australia was great, once you got used to some small differences. The portions are much smaller, and the plates are much pricier. However, EVERYTHING is completely fresh and high quality - you get what you pay for! Groceries are a little different too (they don't refrigerate eggs!) and a lot of the things we get super cheap over here and pretty expensive, but again it's understandable considering the distance it travels to make it to Australia. After a short time there you will find your favorite places and make yourself right at home, we did!

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

In public settings the culture is very inviting and welcoming, however getting close to locals was the one struggle I faced over there. I imagined making a ton of Australian mates, but it didn't work out the way I planned. Other than my internship, I didn't encounter too many locals that I became close with. It's all American students in your housing and classes so branching out and making an effort to meet Aussies is a must! The upside to this is all of the awesome Americans you meet will remain friends back in the states.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Fortunately, I didn't need to utilize the health care, however from what my friends told me the health care was great. We were fully insured through CAPA and Australia has public health care. I did not need any vaccines for the program and had no problem getting my prescriptions filled for my time away before departure. Australia offers a lot of free services for everyone, even non residents. Some people on my program even took advantage of free testing (too much information, or helpful? )

Sydney was very safe. "Kings Cross" is the party area where all the clubs are for the weekend, and just like clubbing anywhere you do see some slightly sketchy people - but they are here in America too! Stay with your friends and you will be fine! The cab drivers are all trustworthy and helpful.

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

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• Hotel

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• Americans

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• Americans

• Location
• Cost
• Organization of staff

• Housing location
• More time with locals

The Outright Urbanite