Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

İstanbul'u seviyorum! Past Review

By (Macalester College) - abroad from 01/17/2016 to 06/01/2016 with

Bogazici University: Istanbul - Direct Enrollment & Exchange

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I feel like I can take on challenges with a greater sense of courage and competence. I have a greater understanding of a culture different from mine, and it has truly made me a stronger, more compassionate person.

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?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Health care was easily accessible. It was rather difficult to communicate with the hospital staff given the language barrier, and I had an incorrect diagnosis at first, but the medical issue was resolved. The IES staff were INCREDIBLY HELPFUL and were by my side through the entire process.

* Safety:

Everyday living was extremely safe. I felt safe walking about the city. I strongly feel that Istanbul is a safe city if you use common sense (as one would in any major city across the world). I gave four rather than five stars given the political instability and occasional security issues. However, as a whole, Istanbul was very safe. I would recommend that future students just follow the advice of IES staff, and everyone will have a safe and fantastic time!

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

This was an unforgettable program. To be in one of the most beautiful cities on the planet with incredible people was just a wonderful experience. I can't put it into words - I will cherish my memories in Istanbul for the rest of my life.

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)

It was roughly one US dollar for every three Turkish lira, so my money went VERY far! I was able to continue a very tight budget while still eating extremely well and having fun!

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? Around 50-60 lira (16-20 dollars) during an average week. Depending on the week it was either higher or lower of course, but it was very easy to spend little money and have incredible meals and experiences.
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Shop at Migros (a grocery store chain in Istanbul), and get a student metro card!

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? College level advanced French.
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? Go to the local markets and speak! Read signs out loud, go into shops to speak to shopkeepers, and make flashcards. I found that practicing Turkish in the open air markets and bargaining was very effective!

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
* 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?
  • The incredible IES Istanbul staff.
  • The LOCATION!
  • The commitment that IES Abroad has to each and every one of their students.
* What could be improved?
  • Perhaps the IES Istanbul Center hours could be lengthened. Sometimes it was difficult to do laundry when it was closed.
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Honestly, I wouldn't change anything about what I knew before going on this program. All of my experiences, good and bad, contributed to my personal growth and understanding. Learning is a process, and every part of it is valuable.

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!