Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

An eye-opening, unforgettable, self-discovering, once in a lifetime experience. Past Review

By (Business Administration, Trinity University) - abroad from 06/03/2014 to 07/26/2014 with

Arcadia: London - London Internship Program

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Living on my own in a foreign country pushed me to get outside my comfort zone and discover things about myself I wouldn't have at home. I gained a new sense of independence and I know I can do anything I put my mind to. I learned how to rely on myself and navigate a new country by myself. I love telling people at home about the London transportation system and how I mastered the different routes and stations! By the end of my stay, my friends were asking me how to get places and I was the one leading us through different routes! This study abroad experience was very worthwhile and gave me an experience and memories I will take with me everywhere I go.

Review Photos

Arcadia: London - London Internship Photo Arcadia: London - London Internship Photo Arcadia: London - London Internship Photo

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? None

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

I enjoyed my internship with The Prince's Trust and the experience it gave me. I also took an architecture class that I enjoyed. We had discussions for one day each week and then the other class day we were out in London observing the architecture we were learning about. I really liked this about the class because we got to see first hand the material we were learning about. It wasn't too intense which was also nice because I worked 3 days a week and didn't have to stress a lot about school work.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

Arcadia University administration was very helpful throughout my stay in London. They were always available through email or even in the office if I needed anything. Anytime I had a question or concern, I could contact them and get help in a timely manner.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I loved the flat I lived in. We were in a great area in London and had a lot around us to do. I also loved the girls I lived with!

* Food:

Food was great!

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Doing the internship program definitely helped integrate me into the London culture. I felt like I met more locals and developed deeper relationships than I would have just taking classes. My colleagues were so welcoming and really helped me transition into the London life.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I didn't have any health issues during my stay in London. There were no prevalent health issues in London and I did not need any vaccines for my program.

* Safety:

I felt safe throughout my entire stay in London. I was also very careful about where I went, what time I went places, and who I went with. One of my flat mates did get hit by a car while on a run, so I would advise for those who go on a run anywhere in a foreign country be extremely careful. In London they not only drive on the opposite side of the road, but they also don't have to yield to pedestrians.

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)

I tried to budget as best I could. Some weeks I used about $100 which was my goal for each week, but there were some where I had to use more because of mainly transportation costs. Budgeting was definitely harder than I though it would be!

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? Usually about $100
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? I found writing down my expenses helped me be more frugal, but it was still hard to budget!

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Other
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

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

Select all that apply

  • Americans
  • 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?
  • My internship because not only did it give me work experience, but it allowed to meet locals and develop relationships with them I will always remember.
  • Also, Arcadia did a really great job pairing everyone with awesome internships.
* What could be improved?
  • I know one thing I stressed a lot over and others in my program was the big research paper. It was doable, but it added a lot of stress while I was there. Maybe finding an alternative or shortening the requirements on the paper.
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I did not need everything I packed! I think that's probably the #1 thing everyone realizes. Also, everything was a lot more expensive in London than I thought it was going to be.