Tom Spackman

University Degree Title: Politics and International Relations
Host University: University of Western Australia
Year of Study Abroad: 2009/2010

Where did you live? Would you recommend it?

I lived in Trinity College which was one of five Residential Colleges at the University. I would thoroughly recommend it. The college is a mixture of Australians and International students so you get to meet people from all over the world. The college provides all your meals, plenty of social functions and sporting opportunities.

Which department(s) did you study in?

Arts Faculty – Politics Department

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

Fairly similar to Sheffield. I had more contact hours than in Sheffield but the emphasis remained on individual study/reading. The main difference was that there was more ongoing assessment (presentations, essays etc) throughout the semester and the final exams were worth a little less than in Sheffield. Overall I preferred the system in Australia.

What did you do for fun/ at weekends / holidays?

The college provided a great atmosphere to make good friends and socialise. There are plenty of nice pubs to go to in the evenings. Would recommend travelling South of Perth to Margaret River, Albany and Esperence if you get the chance. East Coast of Australia is also great over their long Christmas holiday.

Did you join any societies or clubs?

The college provided the bulk of my social life. I was able to play several different sports at the college as well as attending the various social functions, that were organised by students at the college. I was also involved in a 5-a-side football team (similar to inter-mural sports) and joined the Golf Society. If you get the chance to join a sports team and go to the Australian University Games then I would definitely recommend it!

Describe the University/City/things to do

The University Campus is fantastic with water and grass between all the buildings and set right next to the main river in Perth. Perth is a brilliant place to live. There are several beaches within 20 minutes of the university and public transport is good and cheap. Freemantle (particularly Little Creatures Brewery!), Cottesloe ,Rottness Island and Scarborough Beach are must visits!

Could you give any travel or immigration tips?

Immigration was all very straightforward.

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

Would definitely recommend going to one of the residential colleges. A lot of the students at UWA live at home with their families so the college is the best way to meet people.

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

Forget the myths about Australia being cheap! Basic food and amenities tend to be more expensive than in England and alcohol is heavily taxed and very expensive! Living in a residential college is more expensive than renting a house but I would say worth the extra money, particularly in your first semester. Exchange rate is also important, when I was there it was at an all time low but if the exchange rate picks up then it won´t be as expensive.

Any other information or comments

Worth pointing out that although it is more expensive casual jobs pay extremely well. I was working a couple of shifts a week washing up and getting paid $19 an hour so if you get a part time job it really helps with the cost. Plenty of opportunities to work full time doing manual jobs, on a vineyard for example, over the long Christmas holiday at similar pay.