An incredibly fun, challenging learning experience! Past Review

By (Linguistics., Brigham Young University) - abroad from 04/15/2013 to 07/22/2013 with

Brigham Young University: Ukraine - International Connection Internship

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
It was definitely worthwhile! My entire outlook on life changed. I learned so much about people from other countries. Definitely opened up my eyes!

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?

All health problems were dealt with extensively and quickly.

* Safety:

I only felt unsafe when I was walking home alone at night

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)

Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Do not spend all of your money eating out. Take advantage of the market!

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? Beginner
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Intermediate
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? RUSS 101
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? Find someone to practice speaking the language to each day. And tell yourself that you won't speak English when you're out in public. It helps!

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Other
  • Host Family
  • Hotel
  • Hostel
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
  • Host Family
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Local 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?
  • amount of time available to explore the city
  • travel time
  • the kids I was able to teach English to!
* What could be improved?
  • training for the program
  • organization of teachers
  • feedback on teaching
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? It's important to be independent and not rely on anyone else for help.

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 Nearly Native or Trail Blazer
Craving the most authentic experience possible, perhaps you lived with a host family or really got in good with the locals. You may have felt confined by your program requirements and group excursions. Instead, you'd have preferred to plan your own trips, even skipping class to conduct your own 'field work.'