Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

The experience of a lifetime. Past Review

By (Study Abroad, University of Rochester) - abroad from 02/22/2014 to 07/01/2014 with

IES Abroad: Sydney Direct Enrollment - University Of New South Wales

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned so much about myself, about what I value in my life, and what I want to do with my future. It was very insightful being immersed into a new culture. I love my country (America) but the emphasis on quality of life in Australia really got to me and changed my own outlook on life. It was definitely worthwhile and if anything my time there could've been longer.

Review Photos

IES Abroad: Sydney- University of New South Wales Photo IES Abroad: Sydney- University of New South Wales Photo IES Abroad: Sydney- University of New South Wales Photo

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? None

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The academics were not necessarily easier but because I had a lot more free time, I found myself less stressed and more able to complete my studies while also really enjoy my time in a new part of the world.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Getting to live on campus among other Australians really allowed me to experience Australian culture and get involved.

* Food:

The food was good, but expensive!

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I did not have any issues with health, but I was made aware of all the options and help I could get if I needed it.

* Safety:

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

Finances

* 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)

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? 300-500
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Don't overspend and take advantage of the opportunities when they present themselves.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • Americans
  • International Students
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • Americans
  • International Students
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with? 10+

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • The People
  • The Nature/wildlife
  • The culture
* What could be improved?
  • The expenses
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? That Sydney is one of, if not the most, expensive places to live in the world, and I wish I saved more and was more prepared to budget.

Reasons For Studying Abroad

To help future students find programs attended by like-minded individuals, please choose the profile that most closely represents you.
The Outright Urbanite
A social butterfly, you're happiest in bustling cities with hip people, and took advantage of all it had to offer. You enjoyed the nightlife, and had fun going out dancing, and socializing with friends. Fun-loving and dressed to the nines, you enjoyed discovering new restaurants, shops, cafes, and bars in your host country.