Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

An experience of a lifetime Past Review

By (Political Science and Government, University of Rhode Island) - abroad from 02/16/2015 to 06/16/2015 with

The Education Abroad Network (TEAN): Melbourne - University of Melbourne

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned about Australian culture, and gained an amazing sense of adventure. Being abroad was the greatest thing I've ever done. Between weekend trips to Gold Coast, Bali, and New Zealand, you feel like you are always on an adventure. Once you're in Australia, you have a whole new hemisphere to explore! I learned independence, and not being afraid of being afraid.

Review Photos

The Education Abroad Network (TEAN): Melbourne - University of Melbourne Photo

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.

University of Melbourne is a demanding school, however the work load was reasonable. There are usually only three big assignments in a class, so the pressure is really on to do well on those. However there are plenty of resources and time to complete the tasks.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

We were in a brand new building right in the heart of CBD, a 15 minute walk from campus. It offers the independence of living on your own, and the safety and convenience of student accommodation. There was a gym on the roof, as well as a rooftop cinema and outdoor patio with BBQs where we would throw birthday parties.

* Food:

My personal favorite part about Melbourne was the food. I spent most of my money and time checking out different restaurants. I followed a bunch of Instagram accounts that posted food all over Melbourne and I made it a point to go to as many as possible. You can get anything your heart desires in Melbourne.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

At first I felt out of place despite sharing a language. But the more time I spent riding the tram, finding my way around, the more I felt at home. Australians are extremely friendly people and the friends I made were more than willing to integrate me into their lives.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Healthcare was easily accessible, right near campus. TEAN has your healthcare all figured out, you just need to order the card online and you're all set! The healthcare was just as good if not better than at home.There are no special vaccines you need for Aussie.

* Safety:

I never felt like I was in danger in Melbourne. It's a clean and safe city.

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)

Melbourne is not a cheap place to live, however we must take into account currency exchange. I would eat out a lot so that definitely made it difficult to budget, but between going to Aldi's and the market I probably spent around $50-70 a week on groceries.

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $50-100
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Go to the Queen Victoria Market! They have delicious, local, cheap food!

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
  • International Students
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • 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?
  • Our local staff member was great and always there to help
  • Pre-semester and Easter break excursions were amazing and very well planned
  • Housing was brand new and in the heart of the city
* What could be improved?
  • Nothing
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Traveling isn't always easy, but it will always be worth it. You will meet amazing people, do amazing things, and have an experience of a lifetime.

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 Outright Urbanite
A social butterfly, you're happiest in bustling cities with hip people, and took advantage of all it had to offer. You enjoyed the nightlife, and had fun going out dancing, and socializing with friends. Fun-loving and dressed to the nines, you enjoyed discovering new restaurants, shops, cafes, and bars in your host country.