Studying in Gold Coast, Australia! Past Review

By (Pre-Pharmacy, Drake University) for

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

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
ABSOLUTELY. I had to jump through many hoops to be able to get to go to Australia, but if I had all the time (and money) back again, I would definately spend it all the same.

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 grading system was very different from our American system. In America you start at 100% and go down from there, whereas in Australia you start at 0% and work your way up. I found that Australian profesors graded tougher than American ones.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

I had arranged to have transcripts sent to a Pharmacy school application service before I left and they still haven't even been sent from Australia yet, so I am diappointed by that, but all other facets were good.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* Food:

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

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)

Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Travel and entertainment expenses are higher than I expected, also don't forget about educational costs (books, printing, etc.)

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans