From the same class as the other reviewer, I can corroborate the accuracy of everything stated in their review. However, I felt compelled to write a review because the other author neglected to mention the illustrious city of Dubai. As one of the hottest

travel destinations for the rich and famous of world, Dubai also has mighty prestige beyond the flashy cars you will find on a Google search. You will not be disappointed by the sights you will see, and for me, that alone should persuade you to take the journey to the other side of the world. The UAE is exuberant. From the luxury brands you will not see in such concentration to what I deem to be the highest social standards of any country in the free market. This place is CLASSY, and best of all, you get to experience it for months on end without breaking the bank. From campus, a 20-30 minute cab ride into the city split 3-4 ways was hardly ever more than than a few dollars each person. Therefore, I was under the impression that the cabs in Sharjah were pretty reasonable. Also, local cuisine could be enjoyed for ~$4-6 while the food chains, and the UAE had practically ALL of the food chains I frequent, were on par with prices in the U.S. As for collectibles and apparel, the items in the bazaars and independent shops were a bargain compared to things found in the mall. Back on campus, you'll be stunned by the beauty of the academic buildings, impressed by the composure and elegance of your peers, and even challenged by the high standards for academics. Don't sweat it, though! Most universities allow study abroad credits to be exempt from GPA calculation (pass/fail). Trust me, you would rather be spending time with your new friends than studying anyway. Exchange programs are 100% about the experience so attend your classes and do your assignments, but be ready to prioritize your own whims and those of your peers over institutional learning each and every day. As I begin to wrap this up, I want to mention that I had no Arabic experience (and neither did most of my peers) and it was no problem! Everyone in the university knows English and every sign in Dubai is in English as well. This is the perfect study abroad trip for a wannabe world traveler! Seriously. Once you return home, you will have more friends to visit than you ever imagined. I do mean connections from quite literally ALL over the world. It is an amazing feeling to know you have friends spread all around the U.S., Europe, Middle East, and Asia. This campus is an absolute dream of diversity with over 70 nationalities represented and the strongest national concentration at a mere 15%. Awareness of this fact makes each and every person you meat uniquely fascinating with their own story defining what brought them to Dubai and the University of Sharjah!

AUS is an amazing place to study and the people at IXO couldn't be more helpful. Everything ran smoothly from the time of my arrival until my exit. The country is safe and the people respectful. Many outings are planned by the IXO team so you get to see

and do a lot while you are there. From overnight camping in the desert, to trips to neighboring countries like Oman. Not only does IXO do great trips but the university has many, many clubs that plan trips as well. It is great to get involved. The standard of education is high. The learning resources avaliable to you are many. The architecture of the university is absolutely stunning. The grounds are very safe with police guards and the majority of the women's dorm staff were lovely. Bring money! Money goes quickly. The only downside is, although beautiful scenery AUS is in the middle of no where. Taxis begin to cost a lot as the bus schedule too get off property is not the greatest. All and all I had an amazing time and highly recommend AUS to anyone looking to receive a great education as well as explore the Gulf region. It's a safe place to live where everything is accessible and other countries are just quick plane rides away.