Macquarie University: Exactly the same, but different. Past Review
By Orvin L (Philosophy., Austin College) for
IES Abroad: Sydney Direct Enrollment - Macquarie University
The experience was certainly worthwhile. I gained a greater understanding of my ability to function independently in an unknown environment.
Personal Information
| How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | 6 months+ |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
Any student coming from a US liberal arts background must recognize that the teaching and grading style is very different from what they are probably used to. |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
Overall the program was excellently run. There was plenty of information available and the advisor was always willing to help. However, the students were left to their own devices if they wished to be. |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
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| * Food: |
The food was adequate and they catered to a variety of restrictions. |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
The IES field trips and programs were excellent. They were well run and enjoyable. |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
I did not encounter any health or safety issues. |
| If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? |
Yes
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Finances
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* Money: How easily were you able to live on a student's budget?
(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost) |
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| Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? | Over 100 dollars per week. |
| Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? | Australia is very expensive compared to the US. Most items seem to be 1.5 to 2 times what they would cost here. This is a significant factor that must be accounted for. |
Language
| How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? | None |
Other Program Information
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* Where did you live?
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* Who did you live with?
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* Who did you take classes with?
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A Look Back
| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | If you get the opportunity, take it. |
