Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

One of the most beautiful environments and groups of people ever Past Review

By (Lesley University) - abroad from 07/08/2018 to 07/31/2018 with

Broadreach: Program at Sea - Fiji Shark Studies

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned so much about sharks for one thing, and how they play huge role in the lives of the Fijian people we met; a stark contrast to the way sharks play a role in our life back in America. But I also learned a valuable lesson about perspective, because most of the people we met had very little material things, but were happier and more fulfilled in their lives than most people I know back home. I have tried to take this with me.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 1 month - 6 months

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

I loved my program in every aspect, even when we got sick of each other in the house at times! :) Aside from the amazing dives and fascinating lectures, there was available time to space ourselves out from the group and take some alone time when we needed it.

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? <$50
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? I would recommend waiting until the end of the trip to buy souvenirs, unless you see something you absolutely love, because I found that I bought a bunch of trinkets I didn't especially need, along the way.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Other
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
* 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 adventure (diving, white water rafting, hiking, etc.)
  • Getting to know the locals and learning about their culture
  • Making close friends in the house and sharing great (and hilarious) memories with them
* What could be improved?
  • Organization on site
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Nothing

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!