Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

The Best Time of My Entire Life, No Question Past Review

By (English/Communication, University of Massachusetts Amherst) for

CEA CAPA Education Abroad: London, England

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Absolutely.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 0-2 weeks

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

It was the perfect workload for someone also doing the internship aspect of the program. I was never stressed or overwhelmed.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

There were all strengths. Capa is a great program, I loved being able to also have an internship and not just be in classes. I feel I got a better experience from doing both. And everyone who works for the program is very helpful and did the most they could to get everyone really emerged in our new atmosphere.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The tube was a life-saver, as were night buses. I bought my own pillow because the one provided was uncomfortable. But kitchenware was included. I also had to buy my own groceries, but with a stipend given to my by CAPA.

* Food:

It was England, it's not known for its food...

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Everything about London was amazing. I miss it every day. The nightlife is incredible, the sights are incredible, the people are incredible. I've gained so much valuable life experience from studying abroad.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

There were bomb threats, which was cool. But I never felt unsafe.

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)

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans

A Look Back

* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Absolutely study abroad. No matter where you go, study abroad. I absolutely would recommend CAPA London. I have never had a better time in my life, I am depressed I couldn't have stayed longer.

Individual Course Reviews

Course Name/Rating:

Learning Through Internships
Course Department:
Instructor: Anthony Gristwood
Instruction Language: English
Comments: It was pretty dull, but required to get credits for my internship. Definitely my least favorite of my classes.
Credit Transfer Issues: Yes.
Course Name/Rating:

20th Century British Writers
Course Department:
Instructor: McConnelly
Instruction Language: English
Comments: It was a very good course - we would read a book a week, discuss it and then watch the film version if applicable. We also took many field trips, and learning by experiencing the place is the best kind. Plus, I loved the instructor.
Credit Transfer Issues: Yes, I did receive transfer credits for my English major. Definitely take courses for your major if the credits are going to transfer.
Course Name/Rating:

British Pop Culture after the Second World War
Course Department:
Instructor: Mo Dodson
Instruction Language: English
Comments: This was the best course. I loved it. We went on many interesting field trips all around London, watched many interesting films and honestly just learned a lot from Mo. I highly recommend it.
Credit Transfer Issues: Yes, I also received credit for my communication major.