The Time of My Life Past Review

By (Business Communications, SUNY - College at Oswego) - abroad from 05/20/2016 to 07/02/2016 with

CEA CAPA Education Abroad: London, England

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
My time abroad in Europe was such a rewarding and life changing experience. Being able to live and work in a foreign global city taught me so much about different cultures, and taught me a lot about myself as well. My time in London allowed me to grow infinitely as a person, as I gained a new found sense of independence and appreciation for the world. Going abroad made me more aware of how the world works on a larger scale. I was exposed to an entirely different culture and way of life, which forced me to adapt and grow into a more well- rounded version of myself. Being able to navigate myself around a new city and work with a global company gave me a sense of purpose and shaped me to be open to new possibilities and opportunities. In my opinion, there is no better way to find and create oneself than to immerse oneself in an entirely new and foreign culture. I am forever grateful for the life changing experience that CAPA provided me with.

Review Photos

CEA CAPA Education Abroad: London, England Photo CEA CAPA Education Abroad: London, England Photo

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 2 weeks - 1 month

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

Choosing to study abroad with CAPA was the best decision of my life. I had the opportunity to be fully immersed in the incredible city of London. Through the CAPA program, I was able to live and work in a global city, which left me with so many wonderful memories that I will cherish forever. The CAPA program arranged an internship for me based on my qualifications, major, and interests; and I could not have been more pleased with my internship placement. I was able to work at a leading global engineering company alongside the Business Development Team, which provided me with great exposure to the world of business. My internship allowed me to network and create lasting connections with my coworkers that will better my opportunities for my future career endeavors. While I was abroad, I really enjoyed the tightly knit community that the CAPA program provided. CAPA ensured that all the students felt comfortable and safe every step of the way by providing constant support. I was able to create memories with the other students in the program through various CAPA led excursions and trips around or outside of the city.

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? At least $200
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Purchase food to cook at the grocery store instead of eating out all the time.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

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 living accommodations
  • The internship opportunities
  • The assistance/ support provided by CAPA
* What could be improved?
  • Perhaps CAPA could become affiliated with an actual university to take classes at instead of the CAPA center.
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I wish that I knew how much extra money I would need for additional weekly expenses. I had an idea going into it, but I ended up spending much more than I had initially expected to spend. I also wish I knew more about my internship placement prior to my arrival.

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.