University of Sydney through IES Abroad Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

I took courses that focused on local Australian culture (Australian Theatre, Film, and Learning; Australian Literature; Australian Politics; and Introducing Media and Popular Culture) and I think in that respect my academics were great. Everyone was knowledgeable about their field, and I felt like I was learning from the source. As far as level of difficulty, you really need to prepare yourself. As stated above, the grading system at USyd is a lot different than here in the states. The workload is also a lot less -- there's far less homework or "busy work", but that also means less chances to make (and learn from) mistakes.

On-site administration of your program

Merlin did a great job at helping us get to know the local area, he was a lot of fun, friendly, and approachable. He knows a lot about Australia and the three universities. He was sometimes running late or hard to track down by e-mail or phone, but Australians in general are more laid back about these types of things than Americans.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I lived in the Sydney University Village. These were very modern, clean, large sized apartments, and we each had our own room in a five-bedroom apartment. Some IES students lived in the studio apartments within the Village, which are basically the same amenities with your own bathroom, but they do not include a kitchen the way the five-bedrooms do. The only complaint I have is that the buildings seemed to be prone to roach-like critters as the semester went on, which is a problem especially if you have messy roommates. <br /><br /> The University Village is very safe, aesthetically pleasing, and really close to the University. It is also close to King Street, where there are great bars, restaurants, and shops (check out the $6AUD Thai lunch at Thai La Ong!) You will need to buy items such as sheets and cookware, and these can add up but in my experience tend to be slightly cheaper than the same goods here at home.

Again, the $6AUD Thai lunches on King Street are a great deal, and pretty healthy. There's also tons of other retail options, both off campus on King St. and on campus at USyd. You can also walk to Coles, or another grocery store, and cook virtually anything you want at home.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

We went to an Australian Rules Football match and a show at the Sydney Opera House, in addition to a farewell cruise on Sydney Harbour. The spring break trip to the Outback was a great experience, and something I probably wouldn't have done if it weren't for the program. I feel like I learned a lot about Australia's history and culture by attending, and I learned to push my own boundaries, conquer fears, and thus discovered new things about myself.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Healthcare is very accessible in Australia, and very similar to home. Although it is a large city, Sydney also feels very safe. It's pretty much the same as any major city back home -- keep your whits about you, don't go anymore alone (especially after dark), and you'll be fine.

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

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• International Students
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• Local Students