Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Take me Back! Past Review

By (Dietetics and Clinical Nutrition Services., Syracuse University) - abroad from 02/13/2014 to 06/06/2014 with

The Education Abroad Network (TEAN): Sydney - University of New South Wales

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Traveling alone, not knowing anyone prior to the trip was probably one of the riskiest decisions I have ever made. Taking that step outside of my comfort zone was probably the best decision of my life, and the greatest overall experience as a whole. I made so many new friends through TEAN and I am so grateful I made the decision to study through this program. This experience was beyond rewarding and I wouldn't change a thing.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 2 weeks - 1 month

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The course I took at UNSW where extremely interesting and enjoyable. My favorite class was Sport, Law and Society

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

Everyone is beyond friendly and welcoming. The staff is extremely sincere and helpful throughout the whole process and a guide you through your entire semester.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I lived in Bondi Junction in the Meriton Serviced Apartments. My living situation was beyond what I could have ever wished for. The apartments are fully furnished and overlook the Opera house and Harbor bridge. My location was also perfect because I lived right above the bus and train station and was just a walk away to the mall.

* Food:

The food is amazing. Everything is extremely fresh and has a great plate presentation.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Everyone is super friendly and helpful. There is no language barrier so it is that must easier to feel like an Aussie!

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

The health care systems were extremly accessible. One healthcare clinic was located right next to my apartment building, and I felt I got the equivalent care compared to America. If I ever had any questions, the staff from TEAN would direct me where to go, and how to get there.

* Safety:

I felt safe 100% of the time. The Bondi Junction area where I lived was extremely safe along with the transportation system.

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)

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $200
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Buy groceries and cook in the apartments!

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
* 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?
  • pre semester trips
  • spring break trips
  • always felt safe and in good hands
* What could be improved?
  • nothing
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? All the places you can travel to in Australia. Australia has so much to offer, and you can plan a trip every weekend if you really want to explore and travel!

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.