Sydney: You'll Never Want to Leave! Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

University of Sydney was an amazing place to study. Not only was the campus beautiful, there was so much diversity within students. All my professors were great lecturers, and were so excited to meet the study abroad students in their classes. I took many classes that did not focus on Australian culture/identity so that I would meet more Australians. Most of my Australian friends were those who were in my class. The curriculum usually consisted of one or two big assignments/papers/presentations/exams. Most of the learning was very individual. There were not many weekly/monthly assignments or exams to keep you up to date on the material, it was the students responsibility to keep themselves updated. Workload was perfect for a semester abroad, I would highly recommend University of Sydney.

On-site administration of your program

University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia, Spring 2010, University of Maryland. Studying Abroad with The Education Abroad Network was the best decision of my life. Everything the program did not only met my expectations but went above and beyond. When I say it was the best six months of my life, I truly mean it. Applying ...to the program and to my host University was made so much easier because of TEAN. They were always ready and willing to help you out with absolutely anything, and any question I had they answered within 24 hours. And this was before I even left! When I arrived in Sydney, TEAN had so many activities planned, and were extremely organized. Once again, they were always there to help me with anything and really took care of us. Orientation gave us so many opportunities to meet new people, and the people I met I now consider some of the closest people in my life. They had special trips, programs and dinners planned for us and would always let us know what new festivals/special events were happening in Sydney. You would think that being in a huge city like Sydney would be a little scary, but I never ever felt scared/alone or weary being in a new city because of TEAN.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Housing with TEAN was unbelievable. I have never lived in a more high-class place. We had a view of the whole Sydney City skyline and could see the Opera House and Harbor from our balcony as well. The sunsets I saw were incredible, I have never seen anything like it. We could call down for towels, soap, toilet paper and laundry detergent. The facility also included an indoor pool and sauna, gym and outdoor tennis courts which I would always use. In my opinion, You will not find better housing with any other program.

Australians usually eat the same type of food as Americans, but with different variations. Overall, the food was pretty much normal.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

The whole idea of Australians being "laid back" is so true. I have never been to a country where strangers were willing to help you out with anything, and where they were so tourist friendly. It was so easy meeting people. Whether in class or in lines at the club, people were always excited to meet someone from the U.S.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I have never felt safer than when in Sydney. I felt safer in this large city than at the University of Maryland. TEAN also made this much easier as I knew I could call my program advisors if I needed help with absolutely anything.

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

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• Apartment

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• Americans