Perth, Australia - University of Western Australia: Great Fun Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

My academic experience was somewhat rigorous. I took two senior engineering classes and a two second year public policy c lasses. I did not take any “cultural” classes such as Aboriginal History. My reason for doing this was to meet as many Aussies as possible. Many of the classes such as Aboriginal History are filled with exchange students, I was trying to meet people outside the exchange bubble. The engineering classes were not terrible; I teamed up with some local Aussie students in a study group to take on one of the classes. For my second engineering class I actually managed to receive credit for an internship I found with Engineers Without Borders – Australia. The internship was fantastic! I met so many Australians working in the non-profit sector, attended several conferences and made some great connections and references for the future. Additionally, the internship gave me a connection to work for a non-profit in Cambodia for a month after the semester was over.

On-site administration of your program

I had a very good experience with the TEAN staff abroad. My point of contact, Sean Lennon, was great. I’m relatively independent so I appreciate that he did not contact me constantly but rather invited me out to grab some food 3-4 times during the semester. I never had any hiccups during the course of my studies so I had relatively limited contact with him, however, he was very friendly and approachable.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Living in the on-campus dorms during the semester was the best part of my study abroad experience. Currie Hall was FILLED with students from all over the world! I met and made friends from Pakistan, Niger, Nigeria, South-Africa, Zambia, Singapore, Canada, France, Germany, Norway, Sweden, UAE, India, the UK, the US and of course, Australia. I loved meeting people from so many different cultures and backgrounds. The next time I go traveling I’ll have a plethora of couches to sleep on in a variety of countries. The friends I made from Singapore hosted me and showed me around when I came to visit them after Cambodia, it was great. In short, I definitely recommend living in a university regulated dorm if the option exists, the variety of people you meet is absolutely dumbfounding.

Currie Hall food was not amazing. However, it was convenient to not have to worry about cooking. Additionally it was all you can eat, can't argue too much.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Covered in the housing section, meeting people form all over the world was the real kicker. I thoroughly enjoyed hanging out people of all backgrounds during the semester.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Perth is a very safe city, I never had any issues even when I was out late at night.

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

Select all that apply

• Dorm

Select all that apply

• International Students
• Local Students