Opportunity of a Lifetime Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

My experience was amazing, and the opportunity to work in the field of professional sports for three months meant the world to me. I am still close with the friends I made in Sydney, and have received a job offer to go back to Australia Rugby Union. Rather than sitting in a classroom, I was able to work in an office and have hands on experience. On the weekends I had the freedom to explore Sydney and the surrounding areas with other students studying abroad, some taking classes, some interning full time. Choosing to go through TEAN was the best decision I could have made, because I had the freedom to do whatever interested me, but at the same time I had the resources of TEAN at my disposal if I ever needed help. I was able to go to a few events to meet people, but having the flexibility to bond with my coworkers and the people I lived with allowed me to make the most of my time in Sydney.

On-site administration of your program

TEAN was there every step of the way for me, and when I needed their help they were able to make sure everything went smoothly.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I lived above the Forest Lodge Hotel, a must see for anyone in Glebe, and I loved it. We had 20 rooms with approximately 30 people living there, with ages varying from 18-30. Being in Australia in the summer, most people huddled around the AC when we were inside. Having the pub downstairs was a blessing because we could go downstairs for drinks, trivia, pizza, burgers, kangaroo steak, pretty much anything we wanted. The waitstaff was amazing and fun, and made my trip even better.

The food was great, but I'm very happy to be back in the US. Between the prices and the amount of spices used, it's nice to be back home. Everyone that goes to Australia has to try a meat pie and kangaroo, and both are better than they sound.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I felt like an American the entire time I was there, and if I move back after I graduate I'll still feel like an American, but I was embraced by Australian culture. The locals I met welcomed me with open arms, literally, and were excited to share their culture and learn more about American culture.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I had no health crises, but I was told where the hospitals and doctors offices were during my TEAN orientation.

Sydney is a beautiful city and extremely safe. That being said, always stay vigilant. There is no city in the world that exists without crime, so make sure iPhones are safely secured.

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

Sydney is a VERY expensive city, so make sure to plan ahead. Scholarships, loans, grants, gofundme, anything that alleviates the high cost of living will help. That being said, the high cost of living helps pay for one of the highest standards of living in the world, so it's a fun place to live, if you can afford it.

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The Nearly Native or Trail Blazer