Best Experience of my Young Life: Study Abroad Sydney Past Review
By Christina K (Optics, University of Rochester) for
IES Abroad: Sydney Direct Enrollment - University Of New South Wales
It was certainly worthwhile. It has motivated me to get abroad again in life and perhaps go back to Australia to work and live. It also increased my confidence. Knowing I can travel in the world on my own is rewarding!
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. |
I was surprised by the vigor of classes at UNSW. Good grades are hard to get and the students put in an extraordinary amount of time into classes. The teachers emphasized deep understanding over being able to get through a test. All in all, I was impressed! |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
She was always available, came to check in on us, had great trips and all in all was an enthusiastic understanding person. |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
I merely wish it wasn't only international students. But we had to provide sheets, everything else was already in the apartment so that was convenient. |
| * Food: |
The grocery store was very close and I learned how to feed myself. |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
We had to get an insurance plan to participate in the program and our director went over what to do in the case of emergencies, plus she was available to call 24/7. |
| 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? | $50-$100 I had to pay for food and transportation almost weekly. Bus passes are fairly expensive and you will have to ride the bus often. Food will cost as much as you are willing to spend, some weeks I bought meat others I didn't. You will have to budget. |
| Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? | I wish I had taken more money for travel. It is fairly expensive to get around, especially to New Zealand so do some research, know where you might like to go, and have money available just for travel. |
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? | Go for it! I think a student looking for adventure and more nature oriented exploration versus city exploration should go to Australia. It's a great country with a laid back vibe and beautiful scenery. |
