GlobaLinks
Programs and Reviews
GlobaLinks Learning Abroad, originally titled AustraLearn, was created by Cynthia Banks in direct response to requests from an Australian university to assist U.S. students who wanted to study abroad in Australia. They have been in operation since 1987. Since then, AustraLearn became the largest provider of study abroad programs to more than 25 universities in Australia and added new partner institutions in New Zealand and Fiji.
In 2008, AustraLearn expanded its reach to more regions of the world. EuroLearn and AsiaLearn were created as additional programs of GlobaLinks Learning Abroad to accommodate an increasing demand from students and advisors for structured, well supported, and affordable programs in destinations worldwide.
Programs Abroad
Reviews
100%Overall
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100%Overall
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My semester in Brisbane, Australia, was the most unforgettable and exciting semester of my undergraduate career thus far. As a Zoology major, I chose to take classes unique to the Australian environment (like Coral Reefs) and had the amazing opportunity to conduct research with an Honors student based on gecko behavior. I crossed so many items off of my bucket list, from learning how to surf and scuba diving in the Great Barrier Reef to holding a koala and Zorb-ing down the hills of New Zealand's North Island (basically, rolling down in a giant plastic ball!). Yet the most memorable aspect of my time abroad was undoubtedly the people I met--both from Australia and numerous other countries around the world, from Fiji and Singapore to Germany and Great Britain. Living at International House allowed me to step into and experience cultures that I am generally not exposed to at my home university; I was able to engage in many events that promoted this, including special 'Bara Khana' dinner nights and watching traditional dances being performed during talent shows. Without GlobaLinks, this life-changing experience would never have run so smoothly and effortlessly; even from the first leg of my journey, I had no worries about the logistical part of my experience. The incredibly long flights, orientations upon arrival, where to pick up my pre-ordered cell phone--all of this was worry-free, thanks to the dedication and guidance of the staff both on-site and back home.
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My experience with GlobaLinks Learning Abroad was phenomenal. Every step of the way was extremely easy through them. I had a lot of doubts about going abroad as does anyone and they helped me through every step of the process. Whenever I had a question about anything there was always someone on the other end there to answer it for me. Their online checklist made going abroad an enjoyable experience because I did not have to stress about what had to get done it was right there in front of me. Also, the bridging culture program they have to help you get adjusted to the Australian culture was amazing. I met some really great friends there and learned the ins and outs of life as an Aussie!
Critical Feedback:
If I could change one thing about GlobaLinks I would suggest that the company develops some sort of return program. It is extremely difficult to adjust back to the American culture. Reverse culture shock hit me really hard when I returned to the US. If they had an online program that was optional to go through I think that I would have definitely had a better return experience.
100%Overall
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Studying abroad in Sydney is everything I dreamed it would be. I loved the laidback attitude of the Aussies. I still hope to move back someday.
I recommend taking advantage of everything there is to do. Get involved, just like when you were a freshmen at your home Uni. Join a few clubs at the involvement fair. Go to trivia night at Sydney University Village (student housing). Go on one of the abundance of harbour cruises offered at the beginning of the semester. Go to the free concerts offered by University of Sydney.
Before your trip, get an idea of where you want to travel when you are there. Once you arrive, time flies and it can be hard to leave your home base city. I knew I wanted to do a trip to New Zealand and when my friends bailed on the idea I went by myself. I met people from all over the world and still had an amazing time.
If your into being active/outdoorsy I recommend going to a weekend long surf camp. There's also camping and hiking in the Blue Mountains. I joined the Sydney Uni Waterski/Wakeboard Club and got to go on weekend trips with them to wakeboard on the Hawkesbury River. Some cool hikes in the city are the Manly Scenic hike and the oceanside hike from Bondi Beach to Coogee Beach. The Sydney Bridge Climb is a must-do as well.
If your more of a city dweller, explore the neighborhoods of Sydney like Newtown and Surry Hills. Walk down George Street. Visit the malls at Darling Harbour and Bondi. Check out the nightlife at King's Cross.
Overall, just make sure your making the most of your experience. There are endless things to do and see and you won't regret draining your bank account as you watch the sunrise over Uluru in the Outback. Cheers.
Critical Feedback:
In retrospect I would have liked to know more about the differences in the grading system compared to the U.S. It would also have been helpful to know that every exam in every class was essay style. I work very hard in school and I felt as if my hard work was not paying off at the University of Sydney like it did at my home Uni. I was in a rare situation where my grades transferred back verbatim rather than as pass/fail (the more common method).
90%Overall
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Living in HK for five weeks was an amazing experience! However, it was just enough time to get semi-used to traveling around the islands, but still not enough time to see everything! The Transportation system there was fantastic! It was easy to get anywhere around HK! We lived in Dorms and there was an above ground walkway connecting us straight to the University! The walkways are up off the ground so we don't have to deal with traffic as much! In your free time be sure to go everywhere! There is so much to see and do in HK!
Critical Feedback:
The culture program was awful! And there weren't many opportunities to used mandarin, but other then that it was a great experience!
Alumni Interviews
Staff Interview
Meet Deborah Morrison, the Marketing Director of GlobaLinks. Armed with an undergraduate degree in science, Deborah moved abroad after college, and when she returned to life in the States, followed her interests in travel to develop a career in study abroad.
What position do you hold at GlobaLinks? What has been your career path so far?
DEBORAH: I am one of those individuals who did not follow a clear career path, but rather "happened" into a job that I loved that eventually turned into a career. After returning to the U.S., I was just looking for a job that fit my interests. I started as the marketing assistant here - mailing out information to interested students, talking to student inquiries, and sending newsletters. My interest in the company, our mission, and marketing led to opportunities and as the company grew, I had the benefit of growing with it. And now, 10 years later, I have a great position where I work with a fantastic team to lead our outreach efforts.
Did YOU study abroad?! If so, where and what inspired you to go?
DEBORAH: Of course I studied abroad! I had to take a year of language for my degree in college, and I didn't see any point to learning a language in a classroom. I already had taken 3 years of French in high school, so I opted for a Spanish speaking destination in order to learn another language. I arrived in Guadalajara, Mexico knowing only the word ("Hola!") and left 5 months later with language skills, amazing new friends, and cultural and travel experiences beyond my expectations.
If you could go again, where would you find yourself?
DEBORAH: I would study in Asia - either in South Korea, China or India. The shift in emerging markets fascinates me, and I would love to experience that firsthand. I am also intrigued by Asian cultures and want to spend more time integrated in one of these cultures in order to truly experience it.
As for GlobaLinks, what are the core principles that you strive to achieve?
DEBORAH: Our vision is to live as a respected and sustainable organization. We strive to create and facilitate world-wide opportunities for people of all backgrounds and interests to engage with each other, accomplish academic learning, practice peace and understanding, and commit to becoming better global citizens and leaders.
What is up and coming at GlobaLinks?
DEBORAH: GlobaLinks Learning Abroad is always evolving and looking for new ways to serve students and advisors. Right now we are working hard on refining our overseas support staff and services. Students go abroad with us because our Discovery Model delivers a study abroad experience that encourages students to get the most out of their experience through discovery in 5 key areas: Academic, Personal, Professional, Cultural, and Social.
Do you think study abroad and international education will change over the next 10 years? How?
DEBORAH: In the next 10 years, I believe that the types of program in which students participate will continue to expand. The field has seen a significant increase in the number of students participating in short term programs, and I think that programs such as internships, work abroad, teach abroad, and experiential learning all have great potential to grow. Students' interests need to be met by a wide range of program types which will supply individuals with the global competencies which are increasingly important for graduates.
Wow, all you need to do is take one quick glance at GlobaLinks' Alumni photo album to just get a feel of the beautiful and wonderful experiences the students have when studying abroad with GlobaLinks!
Many students express that time spent abroad helped them confirm their career goals as well as offered a global and comparative perspective in their field of study...Your international education experience is a character and resume-building opportunity that will benefit you long into your future.
..but really, what are you waiting for. If I had to re-do my study abroad experience, I would have gone earlier, and more than one semester. James Cook University in Townsville, was the perfect location for studying abroad. Townsville has something for every type of student. A quick bus ride to the center of town where there are great restaurants, clubs and shopping. The bus also brings you to the beach and the airport for weekend excursions.
Now about the STUDY, in 'study abroad'. The facilities were great and the course schedule and work was very easy to adjust to. I went abroad my junior year of college and had to take higher level courses to ensure I graduated on time. Though they were higher level courses, the effort put into the courses, was equal to if I was still in the U.S. (A question many people ask me as an alumna).
I loved my dorm (or college as the locals call it). I lived in George Roberts Hall, a motel style dorm. I had my own room, two suitemates, a shared bathroom and a common living space.
Critical Feedback:
The only hiccup would be the meals. I lived off of sandwiches and cereal. It seemed as if curry was served for dinner every other night. Luckily, all my friends were locals so we would drive and eat on curry night!