Study Abroad in Sydney, Australia with WorldStrides

Studying abroad in Sydney, Australia was one of the most transformative experiences of my life. From the moment I arrived, Sydney lived up to every expectation and dream I had for my abroad experience. Waking up just minutes from the beach, exploring the iconic Opera House, and taking weekend trips to some of the most breathtaking places in the world made every day feel surreal. Studying at UNSW challenged me academically while also allowing me the flexibility to travel weekly and enjoy everything my host city had to offer. While many people don't expect it, there was a bit of a culture shock with the Aussie slang and slower pace of life. Engaging with locals and other international students made the experience so meaningful and transformational. I will never forget the amazing Australians who welcomed me with open arms and showed me what Australia was all about. Looking back at my four months in Australia, this experience shaped me into a more confident, independent, and open-minded person. Studying abroad pushed me beyond my comfort zone and gave me a new perspective of the world. I will always be grateful for this experience.

I studied at the University of New South Wales in Sydney, Australia under the TEAN program. Academics were rigorous and stimulating at UNSW, but I appreciated taking only 3 classes per term since it allowed me more time to explore Sydney and Australia as a whole. Lab and seminar/discussion-based classes were the best way to make local friends! TEAN staff were amazing! They were extremely helpful and so sweet. I hung out with and really got to know my TEAN RD on a personal level while also knowing that they could also help me with any questions or issues I had. Housing was a mixed bag. I lived on UNSW campus and it was mostly fine. I started out living in a unit that had cockroaches. However, my RD advocated for me and the other students and we were moved into other housing quickly. I had friends living in the other accommodations option, living off campus about 15 minutes from UNSW, which was obviously superior to the on campus option. The only real benefit to living on campus was reducing commute time by a couple of minutes. I rarely ever felt unsafe in Sydney, even as a woman. Public transport and walking around at night in well lit areas was also very safe. Obviously, it is still important to apply common sense and avoid danger as much as possible, but otherwise, there was very little risk. Overall, I had an amazing experience and I would totally recommend studying abroad with TEAN in Sydney! I would recommend participating in all of the excursions, especially the surfing lesson!

While spending over five months living abroad as a student, I observed various cultural aspects within Australia that emphasized the nation's unique identity. The biggest cultural shifts and adaptations I saw while living in Australia were between the significance of sports within their society and the influences that the environment took within daily lives. In Australia, the significance of sports and the environment is an integral part of life, shaping their culture as a whole. One of the classes I took whilst participating in my study abroad was Sport and Learning in Australian Culture (EDUH), which a lot of the other study abroad students were taking also. This class allowed students the opportunity to participate in attending sporting events such as, The Australian Football League, Rugby, Cricket, Soccer, Horse Racing, Greyhound Racing, Surfing, Lifeguard training, and much more. This was my favorite class while studying abroad because it showed me and other students what Australian sports culture is all about. Furthermore, with my program manager TEAN, our group was able to attend numerous field trips including tours of the Blue Mountain National Park, Sydney Opera House, Taronga Zoo, Sydney’s Botanical Gardens, and much more. This allowed the group to immerse themselves within the environment that so many Australians are used to daily. Within the EDUH class and the TEAN field trips, I observed Australian culture through the lens of a local. While attending events from events within my EDUH class and field trips from my TEAN program I found that Australians rely on their sporting culture and environment to boost their significance within the world. I think that because Australia is so big of a country, yet has a little population, it makes it seem like the world is small while being there, yet so big at the same time. While being there I would often see the same faces, meet with friends at the same cafes or restaurants, go to the same beaches, the same parks, and much more. This has a huge roll of the environment within Australia. I was lucky enough to stay at a famous beach called Bondi Beach for a couple of weeks, and while being there I found that the environment of being there changed my mindset greatly. My friends and I were talking about how there are so many Australians surfing on a random Tuesday at 11:00 a.m., wondering if they even work or not. We later asked a local this exact question and their answer was solely related to their environment stating “I would rather live a happy lifestyle surfing and doing the things I want and working 2 days a week, rather than working 80-hour weeks like you Americans do.” This changed my perspective on how an environment can change everything about your life entirely. I really enjoyed this type of lifestyle/perspective for a while, however, after a while I learned that it is not for me. A lot of Australians seemed comfortable with where they are and not wanting any more out of life, while it seems like the complete opposite in the U.S.A. This could be because I am used to the lifestyle of always working and trying to get more money to enjoy life with traveling, I found that most Australians don’t think that way, most Australians I’ve had conversations with haven’t left their country at all. I think that this lifestyle is solely based on what you want from life and it’s okay to think either way. Furthermore, one of my favorite sporting events in Australia was the Australian Football League. This is quite similar to American Football yet with their Australian twist. From my own perspective, I found that Australians love their sports and use them as a way to go beyond fun, however, they use them for community and identities. This goes the same for how my host country acts with the sport of American Football. I am from a city called Buffalo in New York, and by far our biggest identity is our Football team. Whether it’s at home with family watching the game or attending the game in person the Buffalo Bills football team is without a doubt talked about in every household in this city. Much like Australians we use sports as a way to shape our culture and to shape our identity throughout the world, creating a positive image for the rest of the world to see us in. However, the environment doesn’t play nearly as much of a role as the Australian environment plays. The environment within Buffalo consists of some restaurants and Niagara Falls, while the environment in Australia consists of numerous parks, the Sydney Opera House, gardens, monuments, cafes, restaurants, and much more. My host country and Australia, have a huge cultural dependence on sporting events, however, my host country is less dependent on the environment while Australia is huge on the environment. This changed my perspective less on the sporting events, but mostly on the environment. Reflecting on my time abroad, I’ve gained an understanding of the cultural prominence of environment and sports within Australia especially how they’ve shaped societal values and national identity. I was surprised by how different and prominent Australian sports are within their culture, not just as an entertainment source, but as a social influence that connects people of all ages, backgrounds, regions, and much more. The environment for me was even more important seeing as how it played such a huge role in the culture. Looking forward, these experiences will shape my influence on community building, friendships, professional life, and much more, especially when considering the value of responsibility while engaging in diverse environments and other cultures.

Photos

There’s a reason why they call Australia “down under.” As soon as I landed in Sydney, I got it—not just because it’s literally below everything on the map, but because everything here feels kinda upside down. The sun’s in the opposite part of the sky, the wildlife is straight-up wild (I still can’t believe kangaroos just chill in parks), people do not wear shoes outside (kinda weird ngl) and the Aussie slang has me confused half the time. But what really makes it "down under" is the laid-back vibe. Whether I’m wandering through The Rocks, hanging out at Bondi Beach, or catching a sunset at the Opera House, I’ve totally embraced the fact that life here is just a little more carefree- and a lot more adventurous. I’ll be honest, it’s nerve-wracking to travel to the opposite side of the world alone, especially when you don’t know anyone. But once you get here, it’s so worth it. I ended up meeting so many amazing people. We’d go out and hang all the time—went to music festivals in Melbourne, did a road trip in New Zealand, and even went bungy jumping, rafting, and hiking (which took 13 hours, so pro tip: wear good shoes). We went surfing, did yoga, checked out bars, and so much more. My program, TEAN, also set up activities like going to the Great Barrier Reef, touring the Opera House, and even giving us surfing lessons. Overall, if someone asked me what’s the best thing I’ve ever done, I’d probably say studying abroad. Take the risk—it’s totally worth it!

Photos

My TEAN study abroad was so much fun and so well organized! There was a lot of on-site support for students through the university and through TEAN and I felt very safe the entire time I was in Sydney. It was also very easy to make friends through TEAN's orientation in Cairns and it was so fun going to the different TEAN events in Sydney throughout the semester. TEANs orientation in Cairns was a highlight of the semester for me and automatically made TEAN stand out amongst other study abroad companies for me. I would highly recommend studying abroad with TEAN, especially in Sydney with the University of New South Wales. There were so many events and ways to meet people through UNSW and the proximity to the beach was amazing!! The only bad thing about my experience was that there were a lot of cockroaches in our apartment, but we worked with UNSW to get them to spray down our apartment with a special cockroach-killing spray. We had them come in like once a month and it got better after that.

Studying abroad in Sydney, Australia was truly the best experience of my life filled with adventure, excitement, new friends, and new opportunities. Going abroad with TEAN was awesome because of all the opportunities offered to students, assistance with academics, housing, and adjusting to a new city, and great staff to help me in any situation I may have needed. Through TEAN, I was able to snorkel the Great Barrier Reef, hike around the Blue Mountains, and go to a very cool rugby game in Sydney. TEAN also helped coordinate my housing situation and I absolutely loved where I lived with all the amenities I needed- The Meriton Suites on Bondi Junction. During my three months abroad, I was able to travel to many places with my best friends such as Bangkok and Phuket in Thailand, Queenstown, New Zealand, Nadi, Fiji, and cities throughout Australia like Mildura, Cairns, and Nelson Bay. I took advantage of all the opportunities placed in front of me and had an adventure of a lifetime. Through TEAN, I met some of my best friends that will forever be my travel buddies! After living in Sydney for three months, it has become my favorite place in the world. The amazing people, clean and safe city, beautiful beaches, active lifestyle, and the best coffee I have ever had made my experience even better. Because of my amazing abroad experience with TEAN, I want to move back to Sydney in my near future!

I could not have wished for a better experience if I tried! I was the only student studying in Australia from my home university so I was a bit nervous going into it, but after TEAN's orientation I already made incredible friends and felt excited and much more comfortable starting my experience abroad. TEAN's program coordinators were fantastic and made all the logistics so easy. Sydney was an amazing city and I am so grateful I had the chance to live there, I look forward to traveling back one day :)

I studied abroad in Sydney, NSW, Australia in 2020. As we all know Covid started that year, but I was still able to be in Sydney for about 1.5 months before everything shut down due to the pandemic. Those 1.5 months were a once in a life time opportunity. I was able to go in the ocean for the first time, swim in the Great Barrier Reef, snorkel, hold a koala bear and many more experiences. Despite the unfortunate events of Covid, I still would never trade this experience for anything. TEAN Abroad was very organized and helped my transition to and from Australia go smoothly. I definitely recommend their study abroad programs!

Photos

Studying abroad was far and away the best experience I ever had. I am the type of person who needs to know every detail about something before I feel comfortable doing it, and TEAN went above and beyond to make sure all of my questions were answered. I was a bit nervous going in and not knowing anyone but once I got to orientation I made some of my best, and forever friends. Studying abroad made me go outside of my comfort zone and do things I never would have ordinarily done. The programs organized through TEAN taught me so much about the culture and really bonded me with the other students on the program as well. Learning to take control of my finances, my health, grocery shopping and my studies really overwhelmed me at first, but by the end of abroad I can confidently say I learned all of that and so much more. Immersing myself in the culture and becoming friends with locals really showed me a different side of Sydney that I would not have otherwise seen. I loved being abroad so much that I transferred to study full time at UNSW, and I owe that all to TEAN! <3 thank you for the best and most unforgettable experience!!!

Photos

This TEAN abroad program was absolutely outstanding. I went to New Zealand with a group of 30 people from TEAN before we arrived in Australia and had an unbelievable time. Everything was run very smoothly and it was a great way to meet people before getting to Sydney. TEAN did a great job with that trip, and the orientation experience at the Great Barrier Reef. The TEAN staff did a wonderful job in getting everyone acclimated and dealing with the logistics and little things, giving us more time to enjoy Australia. This was most definitely a trip of a lifetime and I highly suggest anyone whose interested in studying abroad to choose TEAN (and do the pre trip excursion!! Great great way to meet people).

I am so grateful that I chose to study abroad with TEAN! Navigating studying abroad and all that comes with it can be an extremely stressful process, but with TEAN that was not the case. I felt prepared, organized, and supported from before I even chose a program to when I returned home, thanks to TEAN. I didn't need to worry about figuring out which visa to get or finding roommates I felt comfortable with. Through orientation and other programming that TEAN organized, I felt connected to my peers and ready to conquer a new country the second I got there. I made lifelong friends, countless memories, and gained a newfound confidence and independence throughout my time abroad. I have nothing but good things to say about TEAN and would recommend anyone studying abroad goes with them!

The educational experience that I received at the University of New South Wales in Sydney, Australia was absolutely incredible. Being a neurobiology and psychology double major at my home institution (UW-Madison) I was unsure whether or not study abroad would be possible for fear that relevant science-based courses would not be offered. I ended up enrolling in a course on psychobiology of memory and motivation and two humanities based literature and writing courses. In regards to advising and planning, The Education Abroad Network Administration team was constantly available for me when I had questions about planning and organizing my academic interests, travel interests and making sure that I had all relevant documents and payments fulfilled. TEAN ensured that there were constant efforts to maintain a safe atmosphere throughout our entire time abroad. Safety protocols were specifically outlined in the orientation as well as a study abroad safety course that I was required to take through my home institution (UW-Madison). While studying abroad I felt well integrated with the local communities and culture in Australia. The people could not have been nicer frankly. My American friends and I noted that politeness and friendliness in general are two qualities that are priorities for Australians. I had very enriching conversations with Uber drivers (who I believe in America can be a little standoffish at times. Students at the university and locals I would encounter while at beaches, restaurants and sightseeing spots were very friendly as well and willing to get to know me and help me out with any inquiries that I had. I learned a lot about my willingness to jump into deep waters (literally and figuratively). I challenged myself, I tried new foods, I made lifelong friends, and I learned what it means to represent your culture while learning about one different than your own. I’m so proud of myself for sticking with the decision to study abroad and making it work with my academic career.

My time abroad was very fulfilling and thrilling. I learned so much about the culture and history of Australia and TEAN played a major role in that discovery. The staff were all incredibly helpful and contacted us frequently before and during our trip. We had the opportunity to go on extra excursions throughout the semester from touring the Opera House to surfing on Bondi Beach. Additionally, I had the chance of a life time to take a weekend trip to Melbourne and a week trip to Fiji before my semester. The TEAN staff were incredible there as well. UNSW was an amazing university and I miss it every day. I highly recommend this trip and all the added benefits.

I absolutely loved going abroad with TEAN. They were available every step of the way to make sure I got all the information I needed and more! They helped me choose a program, pick housing, enroll in classes, and any helped with any documentation I needed for the country and school. TEAN allowed me to make friends before starting class, making the transition easier. I could see some of these friends becoming life long friends. I am so happy with my experience with TEAN and anyone thinking about going abroad should choose TEAN.

Studying abroad in Sydney was one of the best decisions of my life! There is so much to do in the city from exploring many beaches to trying many different amazing restaurants to cultural activities like seeing a show at the iconic Sydney Opera House. TEAN was an incredible program provider that offered other cultural excursions such as surfing lessons at Bondi Beach, touring the Sydney Opera House, a weekend trip to Melbourne, and a 10 day trip to New Zealand before the program started! They were great experiences because everything was planned out very well. The staff is extremely helpful whenever you have any issues or concerns! When my flight was delayed for a few days, the staff worked tirelessly to help me navigate the situation and figure out logistics while running their orientation program at the same time! I am incredibly thankful for all of their hard work, which made me feel more comfortable abroad. Additionally, I really enjoyed UNSW! The professors were interesting and engaging. I was able to meet many locals and make some long lasting friendships with people I still keep in touch with today! Overall, I would highly recommend studying abroad at UNSW, especially through TEAN!!

Hands down the best experience I have ever had! I chose to study abroad with TEAN because of the immense amount of opportunities they offer. Everything from touring the Opera House, attending a traditional Aussie rugby game, learning to surf at the iconic Bondi Beach.. you name it, they offer the event to students for free! TEAN also offers off campus housing in which I chose and was able to live on Coogee Beach, 15 minutes outside of the city. Living off campus, on the beach was a huge advantage for TEAN students looking to be more part of the community and live a truly independent lifestyle while abroad. Furthermore, TEAN offers amazing pre-excursions and spring break trips that allow students to travel as much as they can while abroad. TEAN staff organizes it all so you don't have to worry about anything. I attended the New Zealand pre-excursion which allowed me to meet more people within the program and explore so much more of New Zealand that I would not have seen by myself.

Studying abroad with TEAN was the best thing I ever did and Sydney was the best place I've ever been to. I know that studying in a new place can be overwhelming and scary, but not with TEAN. TEAN made everything so much easier to handle. From the application process to arriving in Australia, all of the pre-departure tasks were made simple. TEAN helped me to establish my housing, my flights, my classes, and much more. Once I got there the help continued. They introduced me to the city by immersing us in the culture. We went surfing at the iconic Bondi Beach, attended a rugby game, ate authentic foods, and much more!! I never would have gotten so much out of my experience without TEAN. If you're looking for an authentic experience, you should study with TEAN. You will have the time of your life!!!

I always knew I wanted to explore the vibrant scenes of Sydney, Australia, but I could never have been prepared for the pure magic I experienced. Sydney was the most incredible home away from home. From the perfectly crafted flat white coffees I got daily at various local cafes, to the beautiful scenic hiking trails I explored with international friends in my free time, and the exciting night life beside the iconic Opera house at dusk. If I could go back now, I would. One day I will find my way back. If Sydney wasn't compelling enough on its own, UNSW and TEAN made the study abroad experience the most impeccable and memorable it could be. UNSW is an impressive university of engaging professors teaching subjects they are passionate about to students from around the world. The campus was homey and welcoming which made studying late at the library or meeting groups for projects out in the grass between classes so much more enjoyable. TEAN has left me nothing but good things to say. I will admit I was reluctant at first to let them help with registration as I felt like I was being disconnected from the process, but by the end I was so thankful for their support. They made the transition from UW to UNSW seamless through registration, to picking me up at the airport, hosting me in Cairns for an indescribable orientation, and planning group events in Sydney throughout the semester. I couldn't have lasted through the end of the semester without TEAN when I was unexpectedly diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes and sent to the emergency department. My TEAN adviser in Sydney was the single most helpful, supportive, kind, and caring person through the whole process. She made the uncomfortable and rattling experience so much more manageable by helping me to schedule doctor's appointments, navigate insurance, and giving me the courage to stay in a different country without the comfort of my family. This truly solidified my feeling of Australia and TEAN as a home and family away from the states.

Living on the beach in Sydney, Australia was a dream!! I had the best semester of my life studying at UNSW and traveling with TEAN! Sydney is an amazing city and I found it very manageable to do my schoolwork while still exploring the city and beyond! I loved using TEAN as my program coordinators. The application process was easy and straightforward. Once accepted, they were incredibly helpful in answering all of my questions about flights, housing, classes and more! In Australia, TEAN planned the a super fun orientation where I made so many friends and gained a really good understanding of the culture in Australia. Throughout the semester, the TEAN Sydney staff planned a number of great activities that took me to new places and showed me so much about beautiful Sydney! Traveling with TEAN truly added so much value to my semester abroad and I highly recommend their programs!! While in Australia, I got the chance to not only explore Melbourne, Tasmania and the Great Barrier Reef, but I also travelled to New Zealand and Singapore! Try and explore that side of the world while you're there for a long time! But no worries if you stay local- Sydney has so much to see and do, you'll never be bored!

Great to explore and see a new culture. The academics weren't as good and will try to stick you on any small mistakes, so I would not recommend attending UNSW. The TEAN program was amazing with activities and helping you meet new people. I would travel again in a heartbeat, jut prepare before hand on what classes you want to take since its a different structure there.