TEAN: Studying Abroad in Melbourne-Couldn't Have Asked for Better

I just want to start off by saying I am so incredibly happy that I chose TEAN as my program for study abroad. It can seem like a daunting and scary experience, but TEAN made it so incredibly easy before I left, while I was abroad, and coming home. They really take care of all questions or concerns you or your family could have about study abroad.

I started my study abroad experience with a TEAN orientation in Sydney. TEAN set up a ton of fun activities such as a Sydney Harbor Bridge Climb and going to a wildlife preserve to pet kangaroos and kolas. It was nice to meet other people from the program and get they provided you advice to get you more adjusted to Australian culture.

When I arrived in Melbourne for the rest of my study abroad, I was extremely happy with housing TEAN provided. It was right in the heart of the city near bars, restaurants, museums, and anything else you could want. It was also close to Melbourne University where I would be taking my classes. The accommodations exceeded my expectations.

University teaching style is different in Australia compared to the United States. But overall, it wasn't a hard transition and I got used to the schooling quite quickly. All my professors were approachable if I had any questions. It's fun to go to an actual Australian university and interact with other Australians my age. It can be easy to get distracted while studying abroad, but it's important to remember that you are STUDYING there and to remain on top of coursework.

Melbourne is a vibrant city with so much going on! In each city, TEAN provides a resident director. He or she tells you about events coming up in the city and is also there to answer any questions. Mine was such a great resource and it was nice knowing you had someone to turn to if you had any problems. TEAN also sets up events, such as footy games or music concerts, so you get to experience the Australian culture. I loved all of these activities and made me fall even more in love with Melbourne. The social scene is great and I felt like there was always something to do. Australians are incredibly friendly and nice so it was easy becoming immersed in the culture. Melbourne is also such a safe city! I never felt unsafe and found that really comforting.

I would definitely create a budget before going abroad. Australia is expensive and even though you may know this it doesn't actually hit you until you are there. So be smart money-wise and try to stick to your budget.

I wish I could re-live my study abroad experience. It was 100% worthwhile and I will remember it for the rest of my life. I definitely would recommend TEAN to anybody interested in studying abroad! It's a once in a lifetime experience and TEAN helped make it so amazing.