TEAN Abroad Sydney Changed My Life Past Review

By (Knox College) - abroad from 07/09/2014 to 11/23/2014 with

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

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned so much from the Australian way of life. They work hard but never sacrifice their life enjoyment. They know how to live!

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? None

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The program had so much flexibility allowing me to choose the classes I wanted as well as the activities I could plan in my free time.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The University of Sydney staff is super friendly. Everything is straight forward, and staff is always there to help. I came from a small school where administration is known on a first name bases and we can walk into their office at anytime. However, the University of Sydney is a huge school compared to mine and I had no problems adjusting and getting the help I needed.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

TEAN has excellent housing. They are some of the best apartments in Sydney. I lived off campus, right in the middle of the city next to central station (the main public transport station). When I would invite Aussie mates over they were always impressed with the apartment. They are honestly really nice!

* Food:

I can only give food 4 stars, because, although it was delicious, it was expensive. Before going to Australia save up! But luckily with the visa you apply for through TEAN it is possible to get a job in Australia to help you earn some money.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Living off campus has its advantages and disadvantages, however, knowing that through the TEAN program you have full access to on campus activities and clubs (societies). Take advantage of these opportunities. I was able to join Soul Express on campus, which was a hip hop society. I met a lot of friends through this. Also, the visa you apply for through TEAN allows you to get a part time job. Many of the people I studied abroad with got jobs and were able to meet Australians this way. Lastly, the city is huge! Get out there, people are already going to find you interesting because its you who has the accent!

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I was fortunate enough not to get sick, however I did have to go to the health center one time. It was so easy. I called made an appointment and got treatment the next day. TEAN program includes health insurance from your host uni.

* Safety:

Sydney is a big city, however, I never felt in danger. It was rare that you heard police sirens. Australians are very friendly. Obviously, Sydney is a city so not everyone is the best person. Be engaged with your surroundings, be happy, be merry, and enjoy your time.

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)

I did not realize how expensive Australia could be. That being said, making your own food, and being wise with your money when you have a big night out are main advice I could give. Save up! All in all 3.5. I did not do the best job staying on my budget but it is very very possible.

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $100 at most
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Make your own food. Try to minimize eating out.

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?
  • TEAN excursions
  • TEAN semester trips
  • TEAN staff engagement
* What could be improved?
  • N/A
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Your time goes by fast! Enjoy every second of it!

Individual Course Reviews

Course Name/Rating:

Learning In Outdoor Eduation

Course Department:
Instructor:
Instruction Language: !
Comments: This trip offered amazing trips to the Blue Mountains and to Royal National Park, two amazing national parks just outside of Sydney. The class is very hands on and engaging. I definitely recommend taking this course while studying abroad. It takes you on hikes that some locals from Sydney haven't even been on! Amazing!
Credit Transfer Issues: