Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Change in Worldview Past Review

By (Benedictine College) - abroad from 01/29/2013 to 04/19/2013 with

Benedictine College: Florence - Semester Program in Florence, Italy

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Studying abroad in Florence completely changed my worldview. I've become more aware of cultures beyond my own. I've gained a richer appreciation of the world we live in. I have a newfound understanding of how European history relates to American history and a greater respect of people from different backgrounds. I learned how to communicate, navigate, and interact effectively as a result of my experiences. It was an extremely beneficial growth and education opportunity. I will carry the lessons I learned from this trip with me forever.

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.

* 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?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

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)

Less spending required if I traveled less.

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? None
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Beginner
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? Spanish Level 4
How many hours per day did you use the language?

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
* 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?
  • Educational Experience
  • Relationships with Teachers and Other Students
  • Ability to Travel
* What could be improved?
  • Immersion in the Language
  • Language Preparation before going to Italy
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I wish I would have known more Italian. I also wish I would have gotten more advice on travel.

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!