Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

I reckon this was the best semester yet June 04, 2026

By (Brandeis University) - abroad from 01/26/2026 to 05/16/2026 with

Advanced Studies England: Bath - ASE Study Centre

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I became more independent and I was able to grow a lot. I learned that I am capable and that I can do hard things and that anxiety doesn't stop me. It is okay to do things alone it doesn't mean you have no friends. Do what you want to do but also try new things with your friends. So incredibly worthwhile. Will never stop talking about it.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 6 months+

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

I met some wonderful tutors and was really immersed in the British education system but the program is very rigorous and sometimes it can be hard to balance. Interesting classes though.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

PERFECT!! Loved every part of it. So grateful for the staff at ASE who made my experience what it was.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

My flat was in the perfect location right in the center of Bath and a one minute walk from the building with classes. Flat itself was beautiful and the views were insane. Had everything we needed and more.

* Food:

Food is totally independent. If you don't know how to cook it can get a little difficult but there are plenty of grocery stores nearby. Loved trying all of the different British snacks.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I did the Intercultural Literacy Award and so I did things myself that integrated me but if you want to be integrated you have to do it yourself because ASE doesn't really do it for you.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

I felt very safe the whole time I was in Bath. I would say don't walk alone at night but that is pretty standard.

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

I had the most amazing time and made memories that will last a lifetime. Yes some of it was hard but that is what makes you grow. I met some great people and explored so many awesome places. Bath was the perfect place to study abroad and I wish I could go back and do it again.

Finances

* Money: How easily were you able to live on a student's budget?

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? Not including trips I booked probably 60-100 dollars I am not sure
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Travel at weird times the flights are usually cheaper then. Airbnb is so useful if you are traveling in groups.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with? 0

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Bath itself, best location ever
  • The ASE staff because they were amazing and I couldn't have done it without them
  • My flat and my friends
* What could be improved?
  • More opportunities for integrating with the local community
  • Less work because it felt like we were swamped
  • More bonding for students as a whole group
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? How academically rigorous it is and how much work we would have to do. It just felt overwhelming.

Reasons For Studying Abroad

To help future students find programs attended by like-minded individuals, please choose the profile that most closely represents you.
The Avid Adventurer
The wardrobe you packed was better suited for a semester of camping than club hopping. Outdoorsy, you might forgo a crazy night out for an early all-day adventure. You'd rather take in the rich culture of an old town than the metropolis of a modern city, but for you getting off the grid is ideal.