Sydney was a magical experience where I got to learn, live and grow. Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The teachers understood that we were there to learn from out of class experiences. Many of us were taking on internships that took a lot of time and energy. I found a great balance between experiential and classroom learning with CAPA.

On-site administration of your program

They were there for my preparation 100% of the way. They made sure that I checked my financial aid office, my academic advisers and they helped me keep track of my CAPA application requirements to ensure that I was accepted with the internship parameters as well.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The housing in Sydney was expensive, but it was clean, safe with 24 hour personnel in the lobby of the building. It was also in a neighborhood at the fringe of the city center, so it was nice to be able to walk around quieter streets with great restaurants and shops and parks.

The food was amazing! There was great cuisine from every culture imaginable. I loved the fresh seafoods, sushi, Thai, Italian, and meat pies. The food was just so fresh. We also lived near an Aldi and Coles grocery stores, so easy access to cheap food to cook in was great!

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

It was hard to meet Australians living in the apartments. I made friends with other international students at my internship and I was fortunate to have befriended a hand-full of Australians that helped me get to know Sydney and gave me suggestions about what is fun to do in the city.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Health care was easy. I was fully reimbursed for cost of medications and services provided. I was not advised to get additional vaccines before departure. And there was also access to free clinics for sexual health.

I felt extremely safe in Sydney. There was some unrest in the city while I was there because of the political involvements and dealing with ISIS. Sydney handled the hostage situation at the Lindt cafe in the Central Business District very well. It ended unfortunately, but it was a rogue and isolated event. I do not anticipate something like this happening again in the near future.

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

Sydney is the most expensive city in the world. So I just had to manage my expenses. I bought the food that I needed and tried not to waste food. I still went out and had fun at restaurants and clubs. You just need to find a balance that is right for you. I was also not a big shopper and frequented weekend markets instead of retail to make my dollars go further.

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• Apartment

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• Americans
• Other

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• Americans

• CAPA encouraged us to pursue our interests in the city.
• CAPA was our insider's guide to the city, telling us events happening that were student friendly.
• Tamara, a CAPA staff member, got to know every student and helped us reflect on our experiences and what they mean for us.

• More integration with the local community
• Taking students with other internationals and/or local Australians.
• Lower the cost of housing

The Avid Adventurer