Graduate student Isabell Winkler reports about her Semester Abroad at Bond University in Robina, Australia. In the article she writes about her experiences, her courses and specialization modules at Bond University, describes the differences to studying in Germany, and you will learn why the Semester Abroad program in Australia was one of the best decisions of her life.
Since my Semester Abroad during my undergraduate studies could not take place due to the pandemic, it was clear to me that I definitely wanted to go abroad during my graduate studies. And preferably as far away as possible! Apart from getting to know a place that was new to me, the national language English was an important factor, as I wanted to learn to speak this language more confidently. Australia had been on my travel list for a long time, because I had heard a lot of positive things about the multifaceted country from friends and relatives. For these reasons, I decided to spend a semester abroad on the sunny Gold Coast - it was hardly possible to go further away 😉.
Welcome to Bond University in Robina
Bond University is located in Robina. The town is only a few kilometers away from the beach and the famous "Surfers Paradise". In Robina itself, there are numerous shopping opportunities and restaurants. The campus of Bond University fascinated me immediately alone from pictures. In the end, similar to accadis Hochschule, the small learning groups and the personal atmosphere convinced me. Bond University is the number 1 Australian university in the category "Student Experience" - I could confirm this from day 1 when I got there. There were many events and theme weeks to get to know the Australian culture and to foster the Bond community. Already during the introduction week, I got to know some other internationals with whom I spent my free time. I was also excited about the sports center on campus, which included a gym, tennis courts, and swimming pools. The student organization also regularly organized recreational activities, such as barbecues, parties or excursions.
The courses offered by Bond University
Bond University offers a wide range of courses in the field of business with different specializations. I was already able to choose my courses from Germany via the student portal, however, an exchange was possible without any problems during the first two weeks of lectures. I chose the courses Sport Business, Adventure Tourism and Strategic Organisational Communication and Leadership. I knew from experience reports that the learning effort would be significantly higher than in Germany. Unlike at accadis, the final grade at Bond University is made up of three to four exams per module during the trimester - so I had enough to do with my three courses. It should also be mentioned that in many modules there are lectures for both undergraduate and graduate students together, with only the exam grades differing. From September to December 2022, almost all modules were offered in a hybrid format. However, in-class attendance was preferred by the lecturers. There was no full attendance requirement in my courses. Nevertheless, attendance is useful to be able to follow the subjects effectively.
Excursions on the Gold Coast
Because I only had lectures three days a week, I found enough time to explore the immediate surroundings of the Gold Coast despite the heavy learning load. For trips to rainforests and islands, a rental car was an advantage. Apart from the excursions, I managed well without a car, as I lived within walking distance of the university and also benefited from a good bus connection. My highlights on the Gold Coast were the trips to North Stradbroke Island, to Springbrook National Park and to a wildlife sanctuary, where I got to know the Australian wildlife. To travel to destinations further away from the Gold Coast, it is recommended to schedule time before or after the trimester.
My conclusion
Doing the Semester Abroad program at Bond University in Australia was one of the best decisions of my life. I had an unforgettable time and can definitely recommend the university and the country. Thanks to the openness of the Australians and the support of the "International Student Support" of Bond University, I felt at home there from day one.
Isabell Winkler, Global Marketing Management 2023