Sri Lanka - (re)discovering South Asia and myself. Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The workload was comparable to that at Middlebury - very academically rigorous, yet enjoyably so. The faculty were some of the most renowned and prestigious in Sri Lanka, and it was an honor to be able to take classes with them. Grading standards and expectations were made very clear to us, and Professors were always available via email and appointments to help us.

On-site administration of your program

The strength of the ISLE program is that it has been well established over the past 30 years. It has a structure in place that provides for all our needs in a way that an American college would. A strong academic program, immersion and the host family arrangement are all exemplary. Perhaps one of the weaknesses is that it doesn't allow for too much freedom to go out and explore the country individually because of the tight academic schedule that we followed.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I was treated like a member of the family, invited to special events and ceremonies. The house was in a wealthy, safe neighborhood and I was provided with all my necessities. Transportation to and from the University was arranged for by the ISLE Program. I was very comfortable in my home.

My host family cooked all my meals for me, and were very sensitive to my likes and dislikes.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

We went on a week long 'Northern Tour' with Professor Sudarshan Seneviratne who excavated most of the ruins that we visited. This was an AMAZING opportunity to learn first hand the history of the ancient cities through the excavations, as well as the process of excavation in itself. We were also taken to a few other cultural events like the Perahera (a parade), the Hindu temples, and were given tours around town with our instructors.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Be aware of cultural norms regarding womens' dress/attire. If you adhere to those norms and do not attract too much attention to yourself, you will generally not be harassed. Avoid travelling alone at night, keep emergency contacts on you (it would be useful if these contacts spoke both Sinhala and English fluently), and let someone from the Program know where you are at all times.

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

Make sure you talk to as many Sri Lankans as possible. It seems like the obvious thing to do, but it often becomes easy to just talk in English to the Professors and American students.

Select all that apply

• Host Family

Select all that apply

• Host Family

• I made wonderful relationships with my American peers, faculty and host family that I value deeply.
• Great academic program
• The country is beautiful, and the ISLE program gives us meaningful ways with which to access the culture and people

• More effort into relationship with the University and students
• More volunteer opportunities made available
• Integrating ISLE extra-curriculars with the University clubs