Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

I Want To Go Back Everyday; Do It All Past Review

By (University of Hartford) - abroad from 07/07/2017 to 12/17/2018 with

AIFS: Stellenbosch - Study Abroad or Service Learning at Stellenbosch University

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned a plethora about myself, a lot about my country, a lot about humanity, and how I view/walk in the world every day.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 2 weeks - 1 month

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The classroom is vital to experiencing the culture too. I got to go to an amazing University taught by the best professors I've ever had. The coursework challenged me as a student in a different light. The workload is far less than one is probably used to at Uhart but nonetheless still requires you to be involved.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

Hestea and David are everything! I truly believe I wouldn't have been as satisfied with anyone else as my advisors. They were there to guide us on a unspeakable level. Highest level of gratitude I have for them.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Loved my housing flat! Minor issues with squirrel, heat, wifi, etc. but beautiful views.

* Food:

Best food Ive eaten in my life... And I have an Italian mother and a dad from the caribbean that cook. Probably one of things I will miss the most.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I felt very integrated into the culture based off the courses, friends, excursions and extracurriculars I was able to join. I even went to church services while abroad.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

No problems or issues.

* Safety:

I felt safe in my flat but safety was definitely batchy. You personally have to be alert and aware of your surroundings because ive seen many others faces consequences as a result.

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

I loved the excursions and help with selecting courses. Flights were horrible and overpriced.

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)

The exchange rate works in your favor but you will still find yourself spending a moderate amount of money.

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $100-$150
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Spend it all.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
How much did the program encourage you to use the language?

0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language

Encouraged us to take the language course, we had to learn everyday lingo

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? None
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Intermediate
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? Spanish 4
How many hours per day did you use the language?
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? Use it with the new things you see. Association with words help.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
  • Hostel
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • Americans
  • International Students
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

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

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Scenary
  • Experiences
  • Food
* What could be improved?
  • Flights
  • Safety
  • Transportation
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I researched everything I possibly could before leaving but I wish I knew how hard it was going to be coming home.

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 Networker
An active student leader, it was important for you to network abroad as well. Once overseas, you sought out student clubs, volunteered with local organizations, or attended community events. You encouraged your friends join you, and often considered how you could reflect your international experiences in a resume.