Australia was the time of my life Past Review
By Kristin S (Nursing, East Central University) for
Victoria University: Melbourne- Direct Enrollment & Exchange
It opened my whole world. I gained new views, ones that my friends could never experience. I learned many new cultures and values of other countries.
Personal Information
| How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | 0-2 weeks |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
The grading system was much different than the one here in the States. To earn a grade of 75 there would be considered good or a "Distinction"grade. The workload was about the same. I did not consider my classes to be extremely difficult. |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
The Student Services were very helpful, but most of the time I felt I was on my own for everything and only depending on the other peer foreign students. It was not like the International House at my University. |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
I felt safe always where I lived. For the price I had to pay for my apartment, it was not a decent place to live. It was run-down and needed better up keep. I bought all my cookware, brought my sheets. It was not close to night-life. It took about an hour with public transportation to get into the center of the city. |
| * Food: |
I bought all of my groceries, and the prices were more expensive than here. |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
We had a beach trip, a free zoo trip, a night out in a pub, and barbeques planned together throughout the semester. |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
Melbourne was the safest place I've ever been to. I've never felt safer. |
| If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? |
Yes
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Finances
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* 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) |
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Language
| If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition? |
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Direct Enrollment/Exchange
| * Did you study abroad through an exchange program or did you directly enroll in the foreign university? | Exchange |
Other Program Information
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* Who did you live with?
Select all that apply |
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A Look Back
| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | Someone who is very independent and willing to try anything new. |
