do as the Aussies do Past Review
By Chelsey H (Criminal Justice, University of Southern Indiana) - abroad from 02/17/2015 to 06/28/2015 with
ISA Study Abroad in Brisbane, Australia
I learned entirely too much to put into words. I gained so much from this trip. I got to see one of the 7 natural wonders of the world, I met so many people from all over the globe, and I gained independence. I was able to put my phone down and enjoy the beautiful surroundings and people and never get bored. This trip was definitely worthwhile and I wish it would never have ended. I can not wait to return someday.
Review Photos
Personal Information
| How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | 0-2 weeks |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
The classes were somewhat tough when it came to assessments, but they are extremely rewarding and you learn a lot. It is crucial to attend class and ask questions when you do not understand. Education is more independent and you definitely get out what you put in. |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
They are very prompt with emailing and extremely friendly. Always willing to help and go above and beyond to make sure that your needs and concerns are taken care of. |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
I lived in a flat with 7 locals. It was a great way to dive head on into the Australian culture and meet tons of lifelong friends! The downfall is, there is no air conditioning and the bathrooms are coed with only one shower for 8 people. |
| * Food: |
The food has few to no preservatives and is extremely fresh. There are a lot of options from all nationalities to try. Eating out could be a little pricey but definitely worth it. |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
I felt completely submerged in the culture. I learned different perspectives in politics, unbiased views about my own country, and came home with an elaborate and authentic Australian vocabulary. |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
I was issued with a health coverage that is arguably better than my own coverage at home. All doctors appointments were completely covered and there was a medical center right on campus. There were no vaccines needed for this program. |
| * Safety: |
Never once was I concerned about my safety. |
| 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) |
Australia has a high cost of living, but with wise spending and help with locals, living on a student budget is definitely doable. Shop where the locals do, stick to markets for vegetables and fruits. Create a budget and stick to it. The American dollar is currently stronger than the Australian dollar, this is definitely a perk. |
| Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? | $75-200 |
| Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? | Plan and budget and stick to the plan. Plan your trips early and buy your souvenirs at the very end of the trip. |
Language
| * Did your program have a foreign language component? | No |
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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| 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? |
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| * What could be improved? |
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| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | I now realize how big of a country Australia really is, I wish going into the program, I had done more research and picked a program that included an excursion into the outback or one of the major cities that were in a different state like Sydney, Melbourne, or even Perth. Even in 6 months, it is impossible to see all that you want to see in this amazing country. -- expensive too. |
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 Nearly Native or Trail BlazerCraving the most authentic experience possible, perhaps you lived with a host family or really got in good with the locals. You may have felt confined by your program requirements and group excursions. Instead, you'd have preferred to plan your own trips, even skipping class to conduct your own 'field work.' |
