Australian Living: A Student's Dream Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

I think it would have been nice to know that this university is quite strict on their essay quality. They use APA format referencing that needs to be exact, however as a Biology student from the US, I've only ever used MLA. Just would have been helpful (and easier) to know beforehand that the referencing is very specific.

On-site administration of your program

Nearly all questions can be answered in Student Central in the heart of campus. Very easy to find and the people who work there are very helpful.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I had the most wonderful time living at the ECU Village Joondalup! Its a perfect experience for students living abroad. The Village is located right on campus, and is a great place to make friends! I would strongly recommend living at the Village if you are planning to attend ECU!

I always had a great experience with the food in Australia. I eat a vegetarian diet and there were always options available for me to eat, I'm sure there would be plenty of options for those with other dietary restrictions.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Because I lived on campus, I really feel that I got to be a part of the culture while in Perth. I was fortunate enough to also live with a Japanese roommate and a Indian roommate, so I feel like I was also able to get a taste of two other cultures while enjoying Australia which was another reason I'm so glad I lived in the Village at ECU.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I had Bupa for my OSHC provider and they were incredibly easy to deal with. I came down with a couple colds while I was abroad and went to the clinic right on campus. The only downside of this insurance when you're an international student is that you have to pay for your visit upfront. However, there is Bupa office very close by at the Lakeside Shopping Center (a 20 minute walk or 10 minutes by bus). They cover almost 100% of the cost of the exam, and can reimburse you in cash. It is important to note however, that Bupa does not cover NEARLY as well for other offices. I made the mistake once of scheduling an office visit at an external office in Joondalup and the copay was substantially higher. I would make sure to always schedule any visit you may need with the clinic on campus unless it is an emergency and you need to be seen sooner than they can get you in.

I always felt safe while I was abroad. Public transport is so important as a foreigner without a car; TransPerth buses and trains are always clean and there are always officers available to aid you with any issue you may have while using their services.

I would absolutely do this program all over again!! I had the most wonderful time of my life, I met so many great people while I was abroad and learned a lot about myself!

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

Of course, when going on a trip abroad for such an extended period of time, budgeting is crucial. However, I was able to feel like I got the full experience of Australia while not exceeding a budget of $200AUD for ALL expenses (including travel & misc). I did not work for the duration of my stay and was still able to do the things I wanted without having to make any major sacrifices. Coming from the US, it was also easier because of the conversion rate ($1AUD=$0.70USD).

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• International Students

• People/Culture
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• Course Structure

• Information Resources
• Financial Aid Dispersal Timing

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