Australia: My Second Home in the World Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Major difference between my home University and Uni abroad was the number of grades, points in each class. Most classes were 1-3 major tests or assignments or one big group project instead of several smaller assignments throughout the semester. I preferred this approach, but also felt my classes were far less focused and helpful to my degree. I did not take any of my major classes while abroad, just electives and additional PR courses for my own learning (did not count toward graduation for me).

On-site administration of your program

Bond Uni is wonderful is welcoming international students. I can't imagine a smoother transition.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The apartments were very close to campus (short walk) without being campus housing which was nice. We had a lot of space, two bedrooms and two bathrooms, living room and a small kitchen. I wouldn't have changed anything about the experience, although if I went back a second time I would have lived with more Australians or even International students rather than just Americans. They were very accommodating to International students, and had options to buy hairdryers (reduced price) from previous study abroad students, etc.

We didn't have a campus meal package. The grocery store was a short bus ride away, and there was an IGA within walking distance. There were also food options on campus for between classes and nearby restaurants. For a nice dinner out with friends, head to Broadbeach or enjoy fish and chips at Burleigh Beach. We loved Wahoos at Burleigh, yum!

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Study Australia has has such an awesome orientation. Our group went to Sydney for a week and had tons of activities planned. We went abseiling in the Blue Mountains, visited the Wildlife park and pet kangaroos, went on a harbour dinner cruise, and got a tour of the city. It was a lot of fun. They also had a 4 day pre-trip option to Fiji that the majority of our study abroad group went on. Again, an amazing experience. Well worth it and great value. There was a pre-trip option that I didn't end up taking, but my friends had a lot of fun on it. There were mid-semester travel options and activities organised via the University. Bond caters to international students and encourages travel. There is a travel centre located on campus which we took advantage of many times.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Very safe campus/area. This was never a worry for us and none of my friends had any issues. There is a medical center on campus for students, and they were very helpful.

(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

• I love the Study Australia staff. They were very helpful and friendly throughout the process. I felt they treated students like individuals and were quite personalised compared to some of the competitors.
• The pre-semester trip and orientation were awesome and great options.

• I wish they would have offered an airport transfer at the end of the semester (not just pick-up). This may have changed since I went abroad.