Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Best adult decision I've made Past Review

By (Brandeis, Brandeis University) - abroad from 01/04/2016 to 06/11/2016 with

Arcadia: London - Queen Mary University of London

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
An increase in independence, an idea on how to budget, evaluating the opportunity costs of traveling to one place over another, etc.

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.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* Food:

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Join a society/club if possible. Most British students I came across were reserved, and it was my responsibility to make the effort.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Fortunately I didn't have to deal with the health care system. One person I know had a rough time with it.

* Safety:

Area around the university can be a little off-putting at night. As long as you're alert, you'll be fine.

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

My experience with Arcadia was fantastic. They did a great job of preparing me for courses, but most importantly, helping me experience British culture. Whether it be a trip to Stonehenge and Bath, a West End production, or a walking tour of London street art, Arcadia was fantastic.

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)

There are three supermarkets within a 10-minute radius from campus. I cooked 4-5 nights a week and went out the other 2-3. It's hard to budget but do your best.

Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Cook!

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

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

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • 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?
  • Excursions
  • Insight on modules
* What could be improved?
  • Socializing
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? You can socialize on trips but Arcadia never really provided us with a way to meet other study abroad students at different universities. Excursions could feel a bit cliquy.

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.