Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Australia: A great experience Past Review

By (BUSINESS, MANAGEMENT, MARKETING, AND RELATED SUPPORT SERVICES., Pacific Lutheran University) for

James Cook University - Cairns: Direct Enrollment & Exchange

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Yes. I've experienced a different country's approach to university that was a bit different than my home university. I've also come to realise some of the things I have taken for granted- having my own car, the food I am used to, having my mobile phone, wireless/highspeed internet- the list goes on. I have a deeper appreciation for what I have. At the same time, I had adapted to a much simpler life that was even more enjoyable than having all the conveniences I am used to. Who knew riding the bus in Australia could be an adventure!

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 0-2 weeks

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

I felt that my professors in Australia did not convey there academic expectations completely, so sometimes I was marked down for not including things that I was not told to- however the Australian students seemed to know to include those things.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

I was supposed to have my program orientation in Cairns, but cyclone Yasi hit the day before. So the orientation was rescheduled in Brisbane. As it was last minute, things were rather disorganised, but I was still impressed at how organised it was for being spur of the moment. Weakness: The program advisors while in the US sometimes took a while to respond to questions etc via email. Strengths: Program culture orientation was very informative.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I always felt safe while in Australia; I felt comfortable walking alone etc. The university housing accommodation provided sheets, towels, pillows.

* Food:

The food at the accommodation was terrible. The only good thing was fresh fruit was always offered at breakfast, as well as hot breakfast (eggs, bacon, french toast, pancakes, hash browns). However, the same food (sandwich makings) was all that was offered EVERY day for lunch. Dinners for the week: Curry, roast, curry, tacos/spaghetti, roast, fish n chips and pizza, leftovers, leftovers.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Everything that was planned in Brisbane was memorable.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

Always felt safe. I caught a really nasty cold while in Cairns, but the healthcare system was not inconvenient. I called and made an appointment with a doctor my Australian friend recommended, he diagnosed my cold and prescribed medicine for me. I had to pay for the office visit up front, which was not an outlandish expense ($50). But I sent in a claim to the program provided health insurance and received the money back within 2 weeks.

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

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)

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
  • Dorm
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
  • International Students
  • Local Students

A Look Back

* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Packing: Try to bring all the toiletry items you will need during your time away with you (i.g. deodorant, toothpaste, makeup, etc). These items, at least in Australia, were quite expensive. Save your money on souvenirs and various experiences, not on toiletry items! You have to be willing to take the step and go on adventures! If you plan on going to university only, then stay at home. But if you want to explore and experience a different culture, travel, and meet new people, then definitely go. Even if you are shy, there's something about being in a different country that brings you out.