An incredible and unimaginable Aussie experience of a lifetime. Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

I felt that the requirements at my home institution were much more demanding; requirements to attend classes, ways of grading course work, etc. Was not a fan of the way grades were assessed at Flinders since only a few assignments would determine overall class grades. Although, I understand this is how Australian higher education systems do their grading.

On-site administration of your program

Were good for my program, but rarely actually needed their assistance. Found out most of the thing I needed from new friends as well from the housing situation (Flinders Uni Hall).

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The atmosphere within Flinders Uni Hall was what made it great! Amazing people and events that really make you feel like an authentic Australian student and not a visiting tourist/student. The amount of money spent for the hall was somewhat steep, but then again, a lot of the expenses in Australia are costly. Also, the places where students live on campus are known as colleges, how confusing was that to adapt to!

Great food, good place to eat meals with others, and even provided kitchens in each area of each floor of the hall. The only problem was that meals were not provided on weekends. But the shopping centers are not far and students take trips all the time. Makes you prepared for life outside of a dormitory.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

GREAT! No real problems adapting to the surrounding culture. Australians are some of the friendliest people I've ever met. Some of the friends I've made really pushed me out to experience what I could all the time. The hall also provided many cultural and social events throughout the semester that made things all the easier.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Although I did get sick for a period of time, I did not seek out healthcare services. There are many lectures and talks about the services the university provides and the costs of all of them that are given in the week of orientation before classes begin.

Safety never really seemed to cross my mind as a problem. Key-card access into the hall was required after 8pm and until 8am every weekday and was required all hours of the weekend. And rooms automatically locked when you closed the doors, which may have been a hassle at times, but was well worth it. Also, if there had ever been any reportings of thefts or vandalism, the dean of the college would send emails to all residents.

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

I was expecting things to be pretty difficult, but expenses seemed to get the best of me. I did not prepare and save effectively before leaving the US, making spending more tight. I had an amazing time with what I was able to do and would not change a thing, except more savings or even getting part-time work while in Australia (great pay and student visas include a working visa with restrictions on hours).

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• Dorm

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• Local Students
• International Students

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• Local Students
• International Students

• The people/friends I've made.
• Events to make you feel included.

• Living quarters (beds, internet, etc.)

The Outright Urbanite