An Aussie Experience and an Unforgettable 2008 Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

I had astounding professors. One of mine told us about writing an essay, "if you're handing this paper in early, you're not exploring the country enough." The courses I chose to take while overseas were geared towards study abroad students, so I had the opportunity to learn about Australia's culture and history, rather than picking up where I left off at UConn. It was a decision that I am very grateful I made, because while most of my friends were busy studying for exams, I got to explore and learn about things I was really interested in (and we got to go on field trips too!) The grading system was quite different from what I was used to in the States, which was a bit harder to get used to...they were strict with following the normal bell curve, where few students were able to get (what was equivalent) to an A+ in the class. But after a few weeks we all adjusted just fine.

On-site administration of your program

Everything was wonderful. There really is no place for me to complain or give a negative opinion towards any part of my Australian experience. If I could do it over (and over and over) I would in a heartbeat.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

My housing was great; I was living with a mix of others in my program, some from a different one, and even an Australian. We all got along great. My best friends I met through Australearn lived across the hall, down the hall, down the stairs, and one building over from me, so we were all close. We felt incredibly safe in the neighborhood, and took many trips to Cinque's (a coffee shop) and explored the surrounding area quite frequently. The walk to class was very pleasant; it was not at all far, and with the spring/summer months approaching, it was great to have the chance to walk among the jacaranda trees. When we first arrived at the SUV, we took a trip to Broadway, where we purchased cookware, linens, and all the other necessities.

If living at the SUV in Sydney, there are most definitely a few places I think that everyone should try at least once on their study abroad adventure: - The African restaurant on Kings Street (I can't remember the name). - Ice & Slice - Giraffe Wrap (I will be going back here on my next trip to Sydney) - Cinque's (just past Franklin's, if I remember correctly) - Pontoon (in Darling Harbour) - Govinda's (it was a great find, and we saw a fantastic French movie we still talk about) and last, but certainly not least, is Pancakes on the Rocks. No question, everyone's got to go to this place. You'll never forget it.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

The introduction in Cairns, first of all, was one of my favorite trips that was arranged. As was the Mojo surf weekend, that Australearn had come speak to use while in Cairns so we could get some information about surf camp. I know I would have been overwhelmed with the amount of options that was available, and having Australearn tell us all the good reviews, I had no problems putting my trust in them.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I felt COMPLETELY safe while overseas. To this day I feel like if I left for Australia now, I would feel more than safe. I had no issues while abroad, and the Overseas Health Care, I had my card with me (just in case) but never had to use it.

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

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• Apartment

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• Americans
• Local Students