Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

A semester abroad on the Gold Coast- TEAN Past Review

By (Quinnipiac University) - abroad from 08/28/2019 to 12/12/2020 with

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

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
This experience and program were definitely worthwhile. I learned so much about a culture different than my own and grew into a more independent person. Additionally, this program was great because I met so many international students and made connections with people that I consider to be my best friends today.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 1 month - 6 months

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The academics at Bond University were incredible. TEAN provided great resources for students to ensure a smooth transition into Australian academic teaching style.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

TEAN was extremely organized and informational. Through ever step of the process they had helpful Q and A's, FAQ's, and open lines of communication. I always had a point person that I could contact if I needed assistance.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Housing was perfect. I lived on campus in a double with a roommate. There was cleaning services every week which was unexpected and lovely. Living on campus allowed me to meet a lot of new people and join a lot of campus activities.

* Food:

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

TEAN did a great job trying to acclimate us to Australian culture. They organized several programs and outings, such as surfing, which were really fun. Additionally, the first week of the program we had an opportunity to go the the Great Barrier Reef which was amazing. I also loved this programs sustainability initiatives.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Health care information and helpful information sessions were provided.

* Safety:

I always felt safe walking around the city and on public transportation.

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

TEAN was the absolute best decision that I made while choosing what program to pursue while studying abroad. They were helpful and informative every step of the way. The programs that they hosted were programs that I would not have sought out by myself and I loved each and every one of them! The mentors in Australia were so kind and I continue to keep in touch with them today. My abroad experience would not have been as wonderful and memorable as it was without TEAN.

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)

Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? I would recommend setting aside a set amount that you want to spend prior to studying abroad and stick to it! Creating an excel sheet would be helpful.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
How much did the program encourage you to use the language?

0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language

During the first week TEAN hosted a session to help us understand Aussie slang which was not only fun, but informative as well.

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? Beginner
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Intermediate

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

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

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • The planned programs
  • Mentors
  • FAQ's
* What could be improved?
  • Nothing!
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I wish I knew a little more about ways to track money expenditure.

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 Academic or Linguist
You went abroad with specific academic goals in mind; the program credentials and rigor of your coursework abroad were very important to you. You had a great time abroad, but never lost sight of your studies and (if applicable) were diligent with your foreign language study. Good for you!