University of Adelaide Exchange Program Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

University level of education in Adelaide is different from the American educational system in that there is usually only one lecture per class per week (which is usually pretty large). The class is then divided into "tutorials," which are smaller discussion classes that meet for a couple hours every week and led by "tutors," which are usually graduate students. There is less faculty-student involvement because of this but professors and tutors are very willing to meet with students and very helpful. The workload was definitely manageable and exams are only held at the very end of the semester. I found the grading system fair and comparable to an American college grading syustem.

On-site administration of your program

I had very little contact with the Adelaide Study Abroad Office but they were helpful on the few occasions that I had questions about housing, visas, etc.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I lived in a local "residential college" about 5 minutes walking distance from the University of Adelaide. A residential college is basically a dorm that holds about 150 students who attend the various universities around Adelaide. St. Ann's College provided housing as well as food, cleaning, laundry, etc. and is run by student tutors (like RA's) and a principal who also lives at the college. Living in St. Ann's was the best decision I made in my study abroad experience-- it provided me with an immediate community of friends (who were all local Australians), safety, and a sense of comfort in my environment. St. Ann's also plans pub nights, pub crawls, balls, game nights, etc. so there is always a fun social event to participate in. Everyone there was extremely kind and helpful in making sure my abroad experience was amazing.

St. Ann's provided three meals a day that were served at a set time in the dining room. Besides that, the kitchen was always open and toast, fruit, yogurt, etc. available to eat between meals.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I had an amazing time socially-- there are tons of opportunities for going out, traveling, and meeting new people. Almost every Australian I met was so friendly and happy to help, talk, and make sure you are having a good time. My residential college also provided numerous opportunities for a fun nightlife and social involvement.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

The University of Adelaide requires all students to purchase health insurance through OHSC (about $100-200). Luckily I never needed to use it, but my OHSC card would have allowed me treatment at any doctor's office or hospital.

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

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• Local Students