Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

How I Fell in Love with Melbourne Past Review

By (Environmental Engineering, Columbia University) - abroad from 02/08/2017 to 06/24/2017 with

IFSA: Melbourne - University of Melbourne

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I felt very independent coming back after taking so many trips with friends. Totally worthwhile.

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.

During the semester there were not many assignments. It only really picked up at the end, which I was prepared for based on IFSA orientation but wasn't my favorite way to learn.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

Lindsey was a great student services coordinator! I loved her coffee chats and felt I could ask her anything.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

International House was a great experience. Would recommend a res college over unilodge apartments

* Food:

Food in Melbourne is great, food at IH was so-so.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Living at a residential college gave me way more exposure to Australian students, however I would say my closest friends were other Americans on study abroad.

* 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

I loved being directly enrolled in the university.

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)

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Other
  • Hostel
* 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?

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Residential College
  • Events
  • Independence
* What could be improved?
  • Information on registration
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? There are 3 orientations if you choose a residential college.

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.