ISA Study Abroad in Newcastle, Australia

When picking a school through AustraLearn, Newcastle seemed like the best choice for me because it wasn't in the city, yet was close to the CBD (Central Business District) AND it was surrounded by beaches. Any of five beaches was just a train ride away. I was drawn in for it's beauty and enjoyed it more so for the people. I would strongly recommend on-campus housing. I lived in Evatt House, which was a mix of Australian's and international students. Living with Australian's and not just other people from the same country not only helped me get around Newy easier, but it gave me a first hand account of the warmth and easy-going nature of the Australian people. I got more than just the typical "tourist" view of Newcastle and beyond. I developed such great relationships with the people on Evatt and still keep in contact with my Aussie friends after 2 years. AustraLearn was an extremely valuable contact throughout my program and after. The academics were vastly different from what I was used to (my college at home was only 1,600 kids) but challenged me nonetheless. My abroad experience changed my future goals, as I am now hoping to pursue a job in international education. I plan to go back to Australia some day soon; whether to work or play or both.

I have been at Newcastle for about 8 weeks now and I love it. Since day one, people living in the International House with me have been so friendly. They plan college events often (at least 1 every two weeks, but usually more) which gets me involved on campus and helps me to meet new friends. Sometimes, the people that have been living here for a while are kind of cliquey, but overall people are pretty friendly if you are outgoing enough.

Classes are equally comparable to those in America. I am taking all 3000 level classes and they require about the same amount of time and work as the upper level classes in America. I wish that I took at least 1 class that was lower level just to lessen my work load so I could have more free time to travel and such, but it isn't too dampering.

The weather when I first arrived (mid-July) was cooler than I had expected, so don't forget a jacket if you're coming around the same time.

The downtown/bar scene is very similar to America, but people dress a little nicer here - you can't get in with flipflops, so bring at least 1 pair of nice shoes.

Things are more expensive here so think about that when budgetting. Bus fare is $3.60 one way, a box of cereal is around $7, shampoo is $10, makeup is 4x American prices... just be aware that general living expenses are more.

Overall, though, I am loving this experience and if I was to do it all over again I would do it the same, except I would have done it my Spring semester (begin at Newcastle in Feb). AustraLearn was an amazing help and they have a great system set up for everything that needs to be completed before leaving and the program in Cairns was an amazing experiences that I am beyond happy I was able to be apart of.

Studying abroad was the biggest decision I've ever made in my life thus far, yet the best decision I had made. I had never really been away from home and my University at home was relative close so I could go home whenever I wanted. I'm glad I could burst out of that bubble and come here because at first, I didn't think I could do it. Coming with AustraLearn was a huge help! I made tons of friends within 5 days. It's funny because once we all got to Newcastle we were so close everyone here had thought we had been friends for years. The adventure week was amazing!! I had done more in that week than I thought I would do it a life time because I chose to study abroad. Being here at Newcastle is even better! I have met so many people that I know I will remain life long friends with and will be sad to leave them. The classes are a good learning experience because teachers challenge you to think about the future. It's not about memorizing and spitting back knowledge, it's about taking your learnings to the next level. But it's not all about academics, we go out on weekends and I have even got the chance to visit Sydney twice since I've been here, it's an amazing experience. Coming to the University of Newcastle was the best decision I've ever made!

I studied at the University of Newcastle during their fall semester. I lived in Edwards Hall, I highly recommend living on college. This is where I met some of the most amazing people and learned most of the culture. You are living with citizens and you become a part of the community. They throw many parties, and events that should be attended regularly. The people are generous, and are always looking to do something out of the usual. If I could go back and do it all over I would do it in a heartbeat. The classes were similar to the lectures I take at my home university but the professors are more laid back. Overall fantastic experience and I plan on going back as soon as I can!