No words can describe my amazing study abroad experience in Australia! Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

I believe our group learned and saw more in 5 weeks than most people have their whole life living in Australia. Not only did we learn from short classroom lectures, but we applied this knowledge hands on by hiking trails and mountains, camping, and field studies. This made the educational experience more interesting and unforgettable. During the 5 weeks we had to write in field notebooks, do specific activities, write a research compare/contrast paper, create a group presentation, and take a final exam. The work load was not too much and used everything that was taught. The professors Rosalie, Brad, and Geoff topped off the educational experience by being brilliant teachers, very knowledgeable of each topic, very entertaining, and could answer almost every question possible. Unlike your typical semester class, this was not one you would fall asleep too!

On-site administration of your program

The program administration made the process to prepare for studying abroad much smoother and very easy going. I have never traveled internationally before and I was doing this all on my own. With their help I was never stressed or worried about payments, flights, and what to pack. I would specially like to give thanks to Rachel Dorsey, whom had guided me since my freshman year through the process to study abroad.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

We stayed in about 6 places in 5 weeks and they were all fairly comfortable, even when camping. My favorite were definitely the hostels because you got to meet more of the locals and personally know the people in your group, since you had to live with multiple people in one room. I have never been in a hostel before, but they are much more entertaining and chill then a hotel. Overall, the location of each place we stayed was great! No matter what, you could find somewhere to go or something to do in the area, even if you had to take a bus.

Food was amazing! Although not every meal was provided, it gave you the experience of cultural food and allowed you to try new things. When camping, they cooked us fresh kangaroo and barramundi. I wish I could find them in the states, because they were absolutely delicious! All meals that were provided or cooked for us were very fresh, fairly healthy, and accommodated to anyone's specific needs (vegetarian, gluten free, etc.).

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

The locals were very chill and didn't mind helping you when lost or to take a picture. We didn't really talk to them much, but when we did, they all knew Americans were in town. It was interesting to learn if they had ever been to the States and what they think about Americans. It was also funny when going into a restaurant or bar and asking for ketchup or a pitcher, when they call is tomato sauce and a jug. They had no idea what we were talking about, so you have to get used to their lingo.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I had only gotten sick once and bought medicine from the local drug store, which cleared my cold. Other then that, I had no real healthcare problem, but those that did got taken care of immediately by staff and a doctor.

Just make sure you always look right-left-right when crossing the street! It was hard to get used to at first, but sometimes your main concern can be crossing the road and not getting close to a car. Australia rarely has crime, so as long as you walk around with one other person at night, your fine.

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

Spent way more then expected! I think one of the main expenses are the excursions you choose. Half of my money spent went to the wine tour, GBR scuba and snorkel, and bungy jumping.

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• Dorm
• Other
• Hotel
• Hostel

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• Americans

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• Americans
• International Students

• Every place we traveled was different. From the climate, people, and location, there was always something unique about each state/city that stood out from the others.
• The teachers, Rosalie, Brad, and Geoff are not your ordinary school teachers. Not only did they teach each topic full of knowledge, but they loved to have fun too. I wish I had them all year round.
• Wildlife Group! If I had done this at a different time, it would not be the same. The people in my group were amazing and we all got along in every situation. I miss them already!

• Traveling to central Australia, since it was the only region we learned about and didn't visit.
• Making Orientation the day after arrival and more exciting.