Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

A Dream Come True Past Review

By (University of Rhode Island) - abroad from 01/11/2016 to 04/15/2016 with

The Education Abroad Network (TEAN): Gold Coast - Bond University

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I gained so many unforgettable memories and friends while I was abroad, but more importantly I learned how to truly make myself happy. I went abroad expecting to create amazing memories (how could you not when in Australia) but what I didn't expect was to learn as much about myself as I did. Prior to studying abroad I was very insecure and would never want to be alone, but not I am more confident in myself and have learned how to be happy with myself and not rely on others for my happiness. Studying abroad was such an amazing personal journey and one that I am so grateful for.

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.

The professors at Bond University were all such a pleasure to be in their classes. The majority of the professors, while they care about your academics, also understand that as a study abroad student there is a strong desire to travel and are accommodating to work with your needs/desires.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The administration were all extremely friendly and a super helpful resource/

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

All the housing options were so beautiful! I had the opportunity to live right on one of the most beautiful beaches with an easy commute to campus

* Food:

The food both on campus and at the local shops were reasonably priced, tons of options, and all extremely good! Once you go to Aussie you will live for "flat whites" and no coffee with compare once you leave Aussie

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

My favorite part of studying abroad was being able to break away from the "tourist" attractions. By the end of your time abroad you will know all the secret beach areas to relax at, going to the bars with the locals, and you truly feel like you are an Aussie.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

Never once did I feel unsafe where I lived, on campus, or even traveling throughout Australia. Many times I would ride the bus or tram by myself and I was never concerned about my safety. No matter where I went I felt very safe and comfortable.

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

Bond University was the perfect campus for studying abroad; international students were fully integrated with the local students, the campus has a travel agency for students to use with the best deals you can find. The campus is absolutely beautiful and the perfect size, Bond isn't too big that you are overwhelmed, but big enough that there are still plenty of things to do and people to meet. TEAN made the entire process extremely doable and the staff are there through every step with you for help or support.

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)

I felt that I was able to budget very efficiently throughout the semester. The costs of necessities throughout the semester were very minimal and affordable.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Hotel
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • International Students
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with? 10+

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • the adventures
  • the atmosphere
  • the locals/people
* What could be improved?
  • nothing
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? How hard saying goodbye to a place can be

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 Avid Adventurer
The wardrobe you packed was better suited for a semester of camping than club hopping. Outdoorsy, you might forgo a crazy night out for an early all-day adventure. You'd rather take in the rich culture of an old town than the metropolis of a modern city, but for you getting off the grid is ideal.