The start of something wonderful in Australia Past Review
By Chelsea K (Biology, General., University of Wisconsin - LaCrosse) for
ISA Study Abroad in Melbourne, Australia
A big thing I learned was to slow down (the US seems to be the only place that lives at such a fast pace). I learned what other people thought about my home country and now I'm very open to other opinions. This program was worth it! I am so much more aware of what's out there and ready to explore all of it. I am now willing to just go anywhere and take in the experience good or bad, because you never know what will happen. I plan to return to Australia and would love to travel the globe in the future.
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. |
I took first year classes and they were no problem- a typical first year course. There were only two exams- the midterm and final. We also met once a week for a tutorial where we looked at the material more in depth with a smaller class size. The grading system was pretty similar. I didn't see a huge difference in teaching methods either, except all of my classes were audio and video recorded and put up online. This was nice if you took a weekend trip and needed the extra day or two. |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
I was very frustrated with most of all the offices I had to deal with- it was very confusing (eg. registering for classes) and they did not explain it very well. I also had issues with insurance where they sent me back and forth and all over and no one was willing to solve the issue. I relied on friends for help. AustraLearn was the opposite! They were extremely helpful for the entire process and always replied to my emails and were there to help which was really appreciated. |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
I loved the living arrangements- great way to meet all kinds of people from all over! Housing was arranged for me by AustraLearn. The dorms were on campus and very safe and welcoming. The city was an hour away by tram, the bar on campus was busy on Thursdays, but there was always something going on in the dorms. I chose not to buy other sheets because there was bedding provided (the whole room was furnished). We had communal cooking supplies. |
| * Food: |
I cooked for myself. Ask other students, they know the best places that are close and cheap. |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
The first week spent in Cairns was amazing. It was a great way to start my study abroad experience. They were great with trips and activities throughout the semester as well. We did a wine tasting, reptile show, and a footie match. |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
I felt safe for the most part, just go with someone at night and you'll be fine. Healthcare was very accessible. The doctor was very nice. It was just like being at home. I did not have to get any real specific vaccines. |
| 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) |
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Other Program Information
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* Who did you live with?
Select all that apply |
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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? | Time is short, do everything possible! You have no past there, you can be whoever you want. Anyone would love La Trobe, there are great people there! |
Individual Course Reviews
| Course Name/Rating: |
Australia and Beyond |
| Course Department: | SOC1AAB |
| Instructor: | Dr. Trevor Hogan and Dr. Wendy Mee |
| Instruction Language: | English |
| Comments: | The course wasn't challenging but I highly recommend for anyone new to the country it was very interesting. The lecturing teacher was very knowledgeable and my tutorial teacher was super helpful and nice. I participated about the same as I would at my home university. |
| Credit Transfer Issues: |
