Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

The Perfect Amalgamation of Caucasian Studies Past Review

By (Eurasian, Russian, and Eastern European Studies, Georgetown University) - abroad from 07/05/2015 to 07/31/2015 with

American Councils (ACTR): Tbilisi - Peace and Security in South Caucasus

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Even after a year of living in Tbilisi, this course offered me not only a review of the history and politics of the region, but also insight into a number of different aspects I had not previously focused on. If you are interested in specializing in Caucasian affairs, there is truly no better program available.

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.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

American Councils's Tbilisi office was easily accessible, available, and routinely able to handle any and all concerns of the program's participants.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Nearly all of my housing concerns were met and I was able to stay with and to get to know a very modern Georgian family who welcomed me wholeheartedly.

* Food:

Georgian food is gaining an increased reputation internationally, but having lived in the country for nearly a year by the time I started my program, I was able to pick and choose what dishes I liked best.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Very immersive, but the short program time requires students to really push themselves to branch out from the rest of their classmates.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I had no issues, but know that those students who did were well taken care of and looked after by the American Councils staff.

* Safety:

Tbilisi is a very safe place for men and women, but especially so if participants avoid drinking copious amounts of alcohol.

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? $40-50, without much limitations or budgeting
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Georgian food is very cheap, so avoiding larger chain restaurants and learning to love the country's cuisine can save any student a significant sum.

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

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? Intermediate
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Advanced
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? Beginner/Intermediate Georgian
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? Do not feel embarrassed about making mistakes. Georgian is a very tough language and its speakers truly appreciate any attempts to use their native tongue.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* 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?

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Lectures
  • Home stay
  • American Councils' staff
* What could be improved?
  • Extend program's length
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? How incredibly hot Tbilisi gets in the summer.

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!