The Best 4 Months Of My Life! Seriously... THE BEST! Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The way courses, grading, and requirements were implemented took some getting used to but was never difficult to grasp. The intensity varies depending on what classes you take. Some of my classes felt moderate will others were more difficult. Do not shy away from taking difficult classes, the professors are very helpful and can guide you through it. If needed, the campus offers tutors on your behalf.

On-site administration of your program

I have nothing but positive feedback! I was very nervous going out of the country for the first time, across the world, not knowing anyone... but that all went away as I got to know the TEAN administrators that stayed in Australia. Everyone was so kind and helpful, which put my mind at ease. I loved how they wanted to be involved in my experience and put all their efforts into making my time in Australia the best one yet!

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I chose to live in the dorms (Building 11 aka The Blocks) because I wanted to save on money. I was not expecting much because of the cost, but to my surprise, I loved it! I lived in a corridor full of TEAN students along with some locals, and we all got along very well! I had my own room which was spacious considering I was the only one in there. We all shared a communal bathroom and social area which consisted of a kitchen, couches, table, TV, and a balcony that overlooked the courtyard. The courtyard was the perfect place to be social and get to know others on campus. There were many activities that were hosted as well. Besides the building itself, I loved the location because it took no more than 5 minutes to get across campus to my classes.

The food tasted very good in my opinion! There is a wide selection to chose from and it's a lot easier to be healthy. You can choose to go to Lakeside (cafeteria), convenient store (next to Lakeside), the library, or Don's (on-campus bar).

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

The lifelong friends I met through TEAN would encourage me to travel with them all throughout Australia. Because of this, I got a good sense of what it means to be an Aussie and got to explore the different beauties Australia had to offer. The one thing I regret is not meeting more locals. If I had, I feel I would have truly been able to indulge in their culture.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

TEAN recommended a specific health insurance to carry abroad. PLEASE LISTEN! I knew a couple people who had to go to the hospital and did not purchase health insurance for abroad. The hospital made them pay for EVERYTHING up front! I think these selected students were able to get a refund somehow with their healthcare back home, but it was a very long and complicated process. As for the clinic on campus, it was easy to make an appointment and it only cost $10.

On campus, I always felt very safe. There were security guards that patrolled the campus 24/7 and are kind enough to escort you back to your building if you do so happen to feel unsafe. As for the city in general, I've never felt more safe in my life. It is always good to be conscious of your surroundings, however, you do not need to frantically look over your shoulder every second.

Yessssss! Of course I would do it all over again. I was able to experience so much all because of TEAN! They were also a great support system throughout my time there.

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

Living on campus and having a meal plan made it much easier for me to stay on budget. However, going out also meant spending more on meals and other activities. It could get very expensive. You need to find out certain deals and promos for certain places in order to save money. For example, clubs and bars in Surfers Paradise exempt admission costs if you are a Bond Student (you MUST bring your student I.D. card). Same goes for restaurants around the area.

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• Dorm

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• Local Students
• Americans

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• Local Students
• Americans
• International Students

• Support system
• Excursions
• Location

• Transportation from and to the airport

The Outright Urbanite