Field of study in Wageningen: Bsc Plant Sciences
Study period exchange: 13/03/2023 – 17/06/2023
Country (exchange): Australia
City (exchange): Sydney
University (exchange): University of Sydney
Faculty (exchange): Science
2. Motivation for exchange
Why did you choose to go on study exchange?
I heard many positive experiences about people going through personal growth on exchange and wanted to experience this for myself.
What is the reason you chose for this country/university?
USYD is a renowned university with a mission to improve the world through applied knowledge, which aligns with my values. Furthermore, I wanted to improve my English (speaking).
3. Accessibility to reach destination
Do you have any tips to reach your exchange destination?
Plane is the only way to go. I did a flight with a 19 hr layover which was the best decision as I could stay in a hotel and catch a full 8 hrs of sleep while paying less due to the long layover. Win win.
4. University and studying
Could you provide some general information about the followed courses?
How is the study formalized?
All courses had at least one essay and exam. Additionally, lectures were given each week as well as tutorials, which are often mandatory.
What is the culture of the university?
The University seemed to pride itself in helping all students stay on board with a wide range of support offered. When I got sick, however, I realised that due to the large scale of the university it was more bureaucratic and actually getting help or an extension has been proven to be troublesome with multiple parties within the university not communicating. The atmosphere overall was vry good though, just like the WUR.
What does the university offer the student additionally?
I lived in university accommodation, and it basically had everything I could wish for and more. Laundry, sport facilities, music rooms and more.
5. Housing-travelling-living
What are the possibilities for housing?
The room I had was arranged for exchange students and was a ton of fun. I lived in the Queen Mary Building, which is full of exchange students and it has a fun and social atmosphere.
What is the culture of the country like?
I would say it is more relaxed and diverse, which both are pleasant and refreshing. A large difference is the difference in size of Sydney and Wageningen, with Sydney obviously having more to offer, but both having its own charm. Over all I have found Australians to be very accepting and polite and willing to help.
Could you give a general price indication of the place of residence compared to living in Wageningen?
Living is a lot more expensive. I paid around 900 euros per month for my room, which is a lot more than the 400 euros in Wageningen.
Could you give some information about public transport infrastructure?
Travel by bus to the supermarket and campus is pretty cheap, especially with a student opal card which is similar to a OV kaart and offers a 50% discount. Bikes are of no use there so keep this in mind.
6. Free time
What are must-sees in the area?
I’ve heard a great deal about the blue mountains, which was apparently stunning. Additionally, the city center is just beautiful with a mix of old and new buildings. I found the best beach to be manly beach, which is a little over an hour away from the accommodation and includes a ferry ride that has a great view on the harbor.
What does not appear in the travel guide, but is worth a visit?
Sadly I have not seen too much due to long covid, but I would say make sure to visit all the nearby beaches which are all stunning.
Do you have general tips and tricks about leisure time?
King street is nice and close by. There are lots of restaurants there. The nigh life is oddly enough not too great for a big city and it takes some time to find nice clubs. Food is everywhere though, so finding a place for dinner is an easy job.
7. Challenges & best moment abroad
What was a challenge you have experienced?
I experienced a long term illness, which sadly left me bedbound for a good portion of my stay.
What was your best memory abroad?
The country is ABSOLUTELY stunning. When I get better I will for sure return to finish what I wanted to do there. If you are debating where to go, look no further.