TEAN: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia

My semester in Gold Coast was one of the best things I have ever done. I learned so much about different cultures that have come from all over the world to this one area and I was able to live a different lifestyle from what I was used to in the best way possible. I got to explore new places, food, wildlife, and traditions, all while meeting new friends that I will have forever. I would recommend this program to anyone who asks and could tell stories about all of the things I got to experience that I had only dreamed of.

I fell in love with Australia the second I touched down in the Airport. I could literally feel the Aussie vibe just in that airport, everyone was so happy and nice and helpful, it was such a noticeable change in pace. I am so obsessed with the lifestyle of Australia, especially the Gold Coast that I fully plan on moving back there post-grad, not a day goes by I don't think about it. I created the most amazing life day-to-day there, from sunrise beach walks, to the farmers market, to going out for food and drinks at restaurants right alongside the water, it was perfect. If you like to live an outdoorsy, fit, happy, and healthy life, would highly recommend the Gold Coast! I could not have asked for a better experience.

For Future Study Abroad Students:
As you embark on your university journey abroad, it's crucial to strike a balance between academic pursuits and personal enjoyment. While choosing courses, make sure to include subjects that genuinely interest you, but be mindful not to overload your schedule with exclusively major courses. Leave room for exploration and flexibility, as this will not only contribute to a more enriching academic experience but also allow you the freedom to enjoy weekends and engage in spontaneous trips.

Unlike the educational system back home, you may find that assessments are fewer in number but more demanding in terms of grading standards. Therefore, it's essential to approach your studies with diligence and a proactive mindset. Additionally, take the time to research and compile a list of places to visit and activities to experience both on and off campus. Having a well-thought-out bucket list can help you make the most of your time abroad, preventing any missed opportunities.

During your stay, time will undoubtedly fly by, and to make the most of this transformative experience, be proactive in socializing. Join clubs, attend events, and strike up conversations with fellow students in your classes. The connections you make and the experiences you share will not only contribute to a more fulfilling academic journey but will also broaden your cultural horizons.

In summary, approach your university experience abroad with a thoughtful blend of academic focus and personal exploration. Be proactive in creating a bucket list, manage your time effectively, and embrace opportunities to connect with people and immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of your host country. Studying abroad is not just about earning a degree but about creating memories that will last a lifetime. So branch off from what your used to/conformable with and go gain new experiences!

I was able to study abroad through the TEAN program in Australia even when I thought it wouldn't be possible, and I'm beyond grateful for that. It was my dream to study abroad in Australia and the whole experience was insane!! Bond University is an amazing place for meeting many different people. I made best friends for life here. The Gold Coast is a super convenient location to travel around Australia and I was able to visit Byron Bay, Sydney, Tasmania, and more. I loved the classes as well, I wish I could've taken them all. I also appreciate TEAN's flexibility throughout the application process.

Studing abroad at Griffith University was the greatest decision of my entire life. Going through the TEAN organization was a blessing. TEAN is the way to do it, they offer immediate friends, support, and guidance. Without the TEAN program and the staff, my experience would have been lessened. I cannot express how incredible this experience was and I cannot recommend the TEAN program enough.

The Gold Coast of Australia is such a beautiful place. The community is very welcoming and the city is great for new cultural activities. It is also close to Sydney and Melbourne if you're interested in a quick weekend there!

Studying abroad with TEAN was just as life changing as they talk about during orientation. Obviously moving across the world with no one you know can be intimidating, however not once did I feel alone. They do an amazing job at introducing you to the new culture and world while also providing an environment to build friendships and a new sense of adventure. When talking about my experience abroad the best word to describe it was surreal. There was so much to see and do, yet that only enhanced my confidence in travel and independence.

I absolutely LOVED my TEAN experience studying abroad at Bond University in Gold Coast, Australia!!! The trip started out with an amazing TEAN orientation the week prior to the start of classes where I got to SCUBA dive on the Great Barrier Reef, skydive, and hold a koala bear at a wildlife sanctuary! Bond University’s campus is in the perfect location to take advantage of all that the Gold Coast has to offer! A number of famous Australian beaches, a huge shopping center, and tons of cultural restaurants were just a bus ride away! Whether or not you decide to plan any extra trips to other parts of Australia or other countries, you will find that there is so much to do near the Gold Coast alone! The natural landscape is so stunning and lush that you will want to be a part of it - there is ample opportunity to take surfing lessons, go on long hikes, visit breathtaking waterfalls, or just grab a book to read on the beach! An excursion to Sydney is a must! While there, I visited the world famous Sydney Opera House and the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge. Just a short bus ride over to the beach, I spent a day over at Bondi Beach, where the Bondi Icebergs Pool is located. Allegedly the most photographed pool in the world, the Bondi Iceberg Pool, which overlooks the Pacific Ocean, is an unbelievable sight. With the ocean waves splashing over into the pool, my swim in this pool was a highlight of my trip that I wish everyone could experience. All of these experiences could not have been possible without TEAN. My TEAN leaders were so welcoming and personable and were available throughout the semester if we needed help or just wanted to chat. I found the TEAN weekly Coffee Chats, optional field trips, and the variety of other activities to be impressive. While adapting to a new culture and environment, it was comforting to know that they were just a text or call away and were available to address any of my questions or needs. I made so many friends from all over the world and learned so much both inside and outside the classroom. TEAN knew exactly how to set my classmates and me up for success in Australia - I could not recommend an experience more!

My time abroad with TEAN at Griffith University in the Gold Coast, Australia was most likely the most fun and pivotal experience in my life thus far. This program allowed me to travel to and live in Australia, a country filled with culture, beautiful scenery, famous landmarks, and plenty of nature. TEAN allowed me to fulfill my lifelong passion of traveling the world while still working toward my education as well. TEAN’s support during the planning, moving, and living stages of my time abroad was also a great resource that contributed to the quality of my time down under. They had great staff always willing to help solve a problem and give recommendations for traveling. They also held great events including our program to help us meet our fellow travellers and get immersed in the Australian continent and culture. This program showed me how important it is to take steps out of your comfort zones and to follow your dreams and goals, even if working toward them may seem daunting at first. Overall, I fulfilled my passion for traveling, learning about new cultures, meeting new people, and continuing my education while abroad with TEAN. I will never forget the experiences I had and the memories I made during this trip.