Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

The best experience of my life. Past Review

By (Riverside City College) - abroad from 09/07/2016 to 12/03/2016 with

CEA CAPA Education Abroad: Florence, Italy

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Experience and knowledge about another part of the world. There is so much out there that I used to never think of. It makes me want to continue to explore.

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.

The professors that studied abroad with us, were amazing. We were really lucky to have an art professor with us being in Florence!

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The CAPA staff in Florence are amazing people! Super helpful with everything. Whether it has to do with something in Florence or traveling to another country, super helpful.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Our apartment was in a great location; however, we had many issues with our heater breaking throughout the cold nights. Not so fun.

* Food:

The food in Florence is amazing! Panini shops were my go to!

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

By the end of my study abroad program, I truly felt Italian! I just wish I would have taken more time to learn the language.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I never had any issues with healthcare. If I ever felt sick, I would go to one of the many pharmacies in Florence. They all spoke english, which was super helpful!

* Safety:

I felt safe most of the time! The only time I did not feel safe was at night time, so I tried avoiding being alone at night. Always use the buddy system!

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

I would do it all again in a heartbeat with CAPA! They were more than a staff. I felt like I could reach out to them without a problem, as opposed to some of the other programs that were also studying abroad in Florence.

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)

It was hard living on a budget because I am so used to working. I wish I would have saved a lot more before my departure.

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $100
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Try not to eat out so much, you can save a lot. Also, try not to spend so much money on clothes. Take as much as you can from home.

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

CAPA definitely encouraged us to use any italian words or phrases we knew with the locals! They also suggested taking an Italian class they offered as well.

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
How many hours per day did you use the language? 0
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? Pick up any small language book or even download a free app on your phone! It will help.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* 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 location
  • The staff
  • The location of my apartment
* What could be improved?
  • Advertisement
  • Pro's and Con's
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? How cold it would be in Florence.

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 Networker
An active student leader, it was important for you to network abroad as well. Once overseas, you sought out student clubs, volunteered with local organizations, or attended community events. You encouraged your friends join you, and often considered how you could reflect your international experiences in a resume.