Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Al Akhawayn Past Review

By (Baylor University) - abroad from 08/18/2014 to 12/18/2014 with

Al Akhawayn University: Ifrane - Direct Enrollment & Exchange

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned a lot about myself and made some amazing friends. It wasn't as cushy as some study abroad programs (which I observed when visiting friends in Italy and Spain and they complained about their "tough times") but it was definitely enjoyable. I feel more confident and also more comfortable using my arabic.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 1 month - 6 months

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Certain classes were very interesting and educational. For example I learned a lot in my United States and Middle East class as well as my Intro to African Politics. We had useful readings and class lectures. Other classes were less organized and not as educational. It depends on what classes you take.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The OIP (International Office) was very helpful however sometimes it was a lot of paperwork to add/drop classes or get residency papers done.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

They had housekeeping every other week which was amazing. Personally I had quite a few problems with my shower but was able to get it fixed when I put in maitenance requests. There aren't any elevators so be prepared to carry your own bags.

* Food:

The food on campus was not good. Off campus it was great.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

It's Morocco. On campus it is safe. Just be aware of your surroundings and where you are. Dress appropriately and remember that you are in a foreign country.

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

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? Depended on how often you ate off campus
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? It is easy to find cheap flights from Fez to Europe for long weekends, especially if you buy them early.

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

The rest of my classes were taught in English but I frequently talked with other students in Arabic and they were more than willing to help me practice.

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? Beginner
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? Arab 2301?
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? Speak to taxi drivers on trips!

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Other
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • 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?
  • Friends
  • Seeing a New Culture
  • Learning from a different perspective
* What could be improved?
  • FOOD ON CAMPUS
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? At Al Akhawayn students dress like a normal campus. I packed very conservative clothing. I might have packed one or two more cute outfits and also some peanut butter or breakfast snacks. Or instant coffee.

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 Academic or Linguist
You went abroad with specific academic goals in mind; the program credentials and rigor of your coursework abroad were very important to you. You had a great time abroad, but never lost sight of your studies and (if applicable) were diligent with your foreign language study. Good for you!