Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Melbourne fun Past Review

By (Economics., Wellesley College) for

IFSA: Melbourne - University of Melbourne

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Australia is not that different from the United States in terms of culture. The people however are more relaxed and seem to enjoy life more and stress out less than people I have met in the northeast. My time there showed me that though work is very important, its also just as important to make time to relax and have fun. I hope I can carry this awareness through my life. I also decided to be an econ major upon visiting Australia and taking classes in the econ department there

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 6 months+

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* Food:

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* 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)

Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Make a budget. Stick to it. alcohol and clothes and shoes are expensive. Keep money for travelling/

Language

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? None

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* Who did you live with?

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  • Local Students
* Who did you take classes with?

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  • Local Students

A Look Back

* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Do it. I love Australia and Melbourne to pieces. Everyone who went enjoyed this program. Get away from the Americans and mix with the Australians and locals. They are friendly and don't bite. Travel far and wide on breaks. This was the best year of my life.