Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

THE BEST FOUR MONTHS OF MY LIFE Past Review

By (PSYCHOLOGY., Providence College) - abroad from 06/08/2013 to 04/27/2013 with

CEA CAPA Education Abroad: Rome, Italy

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned about the world and how to travel and be an international citizen. I also learned about myself in so many significant and personal ways. I learned to enjoy each day to the fullest and to take advantage of every opportunity. It was 100% worthwhile.

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.

The work load was just right for the abroad experience. The professors expected our work to be completed and well done, but also understood that we were study abroad students and we gaining a great deal of experiences outside the classroom.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

WONDERFUL!! I miss everyone already!

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

My apartment was beautiful, clean and in minutes of campus. I had a true Roman living experience- I lived just outside a piazza and discovered several favorite local spots.

* Food:

Every food item in Italy is wonderful.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I met several local spot owners and felt comfortable walking and taking the metro and busses by myself

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Easy access, great doctor. No vaccines were needed.

* Safety:

I felt very safe in Rome. It is always good to remember though that we are visitors and need to be aware of our surroundings.

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)

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? 150 Euro
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Save, save, save prior to leaving. When abroad, don't waste money (or time) going to shops that we have at home. Spend money on travel and eating well. It's smarter to spend money on a flight to a different country than it is to spend that money on an outfit.

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

We needed the language in the city, etc, but all the classes were in English.

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? Intermediate
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? No college language classes
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? Chat with local coffee shop owners!

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? 0

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • the city of Rome
  • traveling
  • my classes
* What could be improved?
  • nothing
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I was very prepared. I wish I realized how fast it would go by.

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.