I never wanted to leave London. Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

My English professors were far more "hands-off" than my American professors. This means that knowing the material was left completely up to us. They did not hold our hands throughout the course with homework and study guides, but rather expected us to know the information for the final exams. In the US, American professors seem far more invested in making sure that the students are doing okay, but I think this is to American students' detriment. I became more responsible with staying on top of papers and reading. At the same time, the workload was a little easier than at my American college because the institution wanted us to travel and experience the host country for ourselves, rather than learning about it solely in class.

On-site administration of your program

Everyone in the program office was very enthusiastic, knowledgeable about the country and home country, available for help, and hard-working. The program was relatively small and the facilities intimate. The office also organized many activities for us to get involved in, from a weekly newsletter to cultural trips and mixing parties. All of my expectations for the program administration were met and exceeded.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The flat where I lived was in Kensington, a very posh and safe neighborhood. I had to take the Tube to central London, but we had a very quiet and convenient location. All housing was taken care of online. Students can put information about themselves on the website so that you can decide who you want to live with. Unfortunately, most of the students are from Boston University, so they had friends and did not feel the need to share information, which was hard for me to get used to. But I eventually made very good friends and settled in well. Sheets are not provided in the flat, but I was fine with just the duvet. The kitchens are fully equipped and you only have to buy groceries for yourself every week.

Sainsbury's is a good, cheap supermarket a short walk from all the flats. Tesco Express is also cheap, but has far fewer selection.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

London hosts various cultural festivals throughout the year, all of which are worth seeing. Field trips arranged by the program are fun and cheap. London is a cultural center of the world and there is so much to see, no matter what your interests are.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Universal healthcare in the UK meant that students had no fears about paying for the doctor. Health services were accessible and helpful. There were no health issues in the UK while I was there. London is very safe and tourist friendly. As in any city, there are dangerous areas, but the program educates its students about these areas. I rarely traveled in groups and always felt safe.

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

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• Apartment

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• Americans

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• Americans

• London and traveling to Europe

• I wish I had studied with British and international students.