Claire Briggs

Host University: University of Queensland
Year of Study Abroad: 2010-11

Where did you live? Would you recommend it?

I lived at Union college on the St Lucia campus and absolutely loved it! Staying at college was a great way to meet people and there were always socials and inter college competitions.

Which department(s) did you study in?

Mathematics

How does the workload/classes/teaching styles vary to Sheffield?

There was more constant assessment during the year with final exams worth less. The work load overall was pretty similar.

What did you do for fun at the weekends and during the holidays?

Brisbane is on the east coast and near to some amazing beaches with great surf and diving. During longer breaks I explored the rest of Australia and New Zealand and also went to Fiji and Indonesia.

Did you join any societies or clubs?

I was part of UniDive and would go on regular Scuba diving trips around Brisbane. I also played for Union college's Soccer and AFL teams which was particularly fun as it involved learning a completely new sport.

Describe the University/City/things to do

Brisbane is a great place to live, with amazing weather and a really relaxed friendly vibe.

Could you give any travel or immigration tips?

Australia is so big with so much to explore so just travel whenever you get the chance!

Could you give any advice or tips to a student preparing to go or tell them anything you wished you knew in advance?

Save as much money as you can before you go as Australia is very expensive.

Would you say it is cheaper or more expensive to live than Sheffield?

It is a lot more expensive, especially the university accommodation but I would still recommend living at a college.