Very basic question, but what's Sydney like to live in? Would you recommend it?

The rent is crippling for students on low incomes, unless you live in the outer suburbs. But then your lifestyle may not feel as glamourous as living in the inner-city, and you may end up spending heaps on transport anyway. Some students share rooms in crowded shared houses. If you have to work long hours to pay the rent and bills then you may have less time to study and socialise.