I learned to see the Middle East through multiple narratives. I grew. Past Review
By David F (Oberlin College) - abroad from 02/14/2011 to 06/26/2015 with
Arava Institute for Environmental Studies: Hevel Eilot - Study Abroad in Israel
I learned to live in a deeply diverse community, which is a reflection of the world. I learned to engage in constructive dialogue and build partnership across deep difference. And, I completed 300 level natural science credits that counted towards my undergraduate degree at Oberlin College. It was remarkably worthwhile.
Personal Information
| How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | 1 month - 6 months |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
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| * Food: |
As a vegan, I was very well cared for. |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
I could not have been more thoroughly integrated into Israeli culture, and the Middle East more broadly. |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
The program could not have been more supportive. When students need assistance, the campus life team adopt them and ensure that all of their needs are fully met. |
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| If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? |
Yes
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Finances
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* 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) |
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Language
| * Did your program have a foreign language component? | Yes |
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How much did the program encourage you to use the language?
0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language |
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Direct Enrollment/Exchange
| * Did you study abroad through an exchange program or did you directly enroll in the foreign university? | Direct Enrollment |
Other Program Information
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* Where did you live?
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* Who did you live with?
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* Who did you take classes with?
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A Look Back
| * What did you like most about the program? |
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| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | It is natural that it would take me a few weeks to adjust to life in this type of setting. I found it difficult to settle in, to adjust to life in the diverse community, on Kibbutz Ketura, in the desert. |
