Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

It will stay with you forever Past Review

By (Brigham Young University) - abroad from 08/04/2012 to 11/24/2012 with

Brigham Young University: Traveling - India Study Abroad

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I really got out of my comfort zone. I learned so much how things and comforts don't make you happy--it's the people around you, and how you look at your situation. I learned that life is about what you do, not what you have. I had my eyes opened, and I was humbled by what I saw. I saw the best and worst of humanity, and life, but surprisingly more of the best. It's something I'll never forget, and beyond worthwhile. I'm never going to forget it.

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)

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $10
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Budget--don't spend it all the first month and a half. Also, remember whenever you're buying: you still have to get it back on the plane.

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? French 102
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? Read the paper, and talk with the translators. Don't be afraid to give them sample sentences and ask them to correct for you. Try out your Telugu with the Auto drivers, the cashiers, church members-- everyone will love it!

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Other
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
  • International Students
  • Other
* 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?
  • The people
  • The food
  • The atmosphere
* What could be improved?
  • The class testing schedule
  • ...
  • ...
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Don't put anything in the wash that you'd hate to get ruined. The bus system goes pretty much anywhere in the city and is infinitely cheaper than Autos. Don't leave electronics or other heat-generating appliances on/ sitting on the floor at night, or they'll have ants in them by morning. Budget for gift-giving; it's cultural and very important.

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!