Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

I learned so much at UNSW Past Review

By (PSYCHOLOGY., SUNY - Binghamton) for

The University of New South Wales: Sydney - Direct Enrollment & Exchange

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Studying abroad is a must for every student. Not so much for the studying, but for traveling and meeting people and immersing yourself in a culture that is completely different. I learned so much from real life travel.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 1 month - 6 months
The term and year this program took place: Spring 2010

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

I really feel as though I didn't learn anything because I wasn't motivated to be in the classroom. The only real work I put effort into was the last two weeks during finals.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

I felt that I wasn't treated that respectfully. The orientation was awful, and the way they handled housing situations was atrocious.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

6 apartments in one building, 5 person per apartment. Two bathrooms. <br /><br /> I loved the location of my apartment on Bondi Beach, but the way it was handled by the Study Abroad office really made it that less great.

* Food:

I cook for myself

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

Sydney is a safe place.

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? No

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? Australia is by far the most expensive place I've ever been to. I've spent more than I ever thought I would. The expected price was 20 grand, Id say I'd spent at least 30.
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Alcohol tax is 100% here. Food, clothes, everything is way way more expensive than in the states.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

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  • International Students
  • Americans
* Who did you take classes with?

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  • Local Students