Sydney Uni was a great experience overall Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

While there was not a huge amount of work for each class, there were about three assignments for each course, which each counted for a large percentage of the grade. While I was not consistently doing work while at school, it came in waves when i had a large assignment due for multiple courses. I was not taking very difficult classes (which was intentional) but even these courses were not easy. If you are looking for an abroad program where you will do no homework at all, I would not recommend the University of Sydney.

On-site administration of your program

Our abroad adviser was with us at our orientation so we got to know her immediately. She was very nice, fun and approachable. I never had any issues while i was away, so i never had to directly interact with her besides when i saw her at butler events. I have no complaints.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I lived with both American exchange students and local Australian students. I lived in a five person apartment that had 5 single bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. I liked having a single, which was nice. My roommates were extremely messy and there was no type of cleaning service. This was the main issue with where I lived. I would recommend to try to live in one of the colleges on campus. They are a really fun place to live and you will be integrated with many more Australian students.

I was on no food plan so I would generally go grocery shopping, get take out or go out to eat.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I had two Australian roommates, which was good when it came to getting to know some students who actually grew up in Australia. I also had friends who lived in the colleges, so i was also able to meet many more Australian students that way. Butler had a few special events such as a trip to the Blue Mountains, a bike tour throughout Sydney, surf lessons and a boat trip to go dolphin watching. I recommend that you go on all of these organized trips because they are fun and free.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Sydney is a really safe city. Of course you need to be careful but I never felt scared while alone during the day or when I was out late at night with my friends. Public transportation is also very safe during the day. I would never take the bus by myself late at night but if you are with a group of people it is fine. I never had do deal with any health care issues, but friends of mine that did found it easy to see a doctor when they needed to. Our program adviser was helpful with these types of issues.

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

Select all that apply

• Apartment

Select all that apply

• Other