Australia Gave me a ride I will never forget Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The grading system is a shock. yes it was explained to us before we went but the actually system was not explained. Truthfully that would not have made much of a difference to me deciding whether to go or not. but nonetheless it was not easy to adjust to and it was something I never did adjust to. The course load is much less, maybe 2 or 3 assigments per class (taking 3 classes per semester). The classes tend to be larger that at Clark and many lecturers are not personally involved in student success. Often with the classes of 100-200 kids a PLA will grade your work, lecturers merely lecture. This is not the case for all classes though. All in all it is okay but dont expect to get great grades, lecturers are used to handing out Passes as many students striver for a pass and nothing more. My lecturers were pleasant and always willing to help, dont be discouraged it is a wonderful school with many opportunities for success!

On-site administration of your program

My program was CIEE and run by Paul Hollick and Isabella (I forget her last name). paul was the primary person to contact when questions came up. he made himself available everyday and we could go have a chat with him any time we wanted. He was supportive and encouraging during confusing times. This semester Paul traveled to the US and visited Clark and other school on the East coast who are part of CIEE. The program is small and intimate consisting of many small trip to aqariums and dinners of which all CIEE students are invited. Paul was knowledgable about American education and always helpful.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The program arranges housing in the stuident village. It is a lovely arrangement of flats where students are given a single room with either 3, 4, 5, or 7 other roomates. It was fun and you were surrounded by native peoples and students who were abroad as well.

Tehre are no food accomodations, you are meant to shop for yourself. A market is located about 3/4 of a mile down the road. Thins are more expensive here!

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

The social and cultural experiences were never ending. Everyday I learned something new about Australia culture whether it be through friends or observations. It was a constant flow of social gatherings and fun. The program takes you to Demark Australia and on the North west trip into the outback of Australia. both are incredible life changing experiences that allowed us to see the deeper culture of Australia.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Eveerything to me felt safe. It was a beautful rural area and everyone was pleasant. We were given a dicussion on safety tips such as not bringing people we dont know back to the village, locking out flats at night and our rooms when we were out. It felt much safer to me than Worcester. Of course walking around the cities int he night time, take proper precaustions and always have someone with you.

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

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• Apartment
• Dorm

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• Local Students