Studying in Wales was so amazing, I want to go back! Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

I discovered that university courses in the UK are slightly different from colleges in the United States. There is a much higher level of independence required for students to keep up with readings, essays, and homework studies along with less supervision of the actual instructor. Less time is spent weekly in the classroom, but the amount of outside work and preparation makes up for that time. Overall grades, in most courses, are based solely on a single test or final essay. I learned a lot from my classes and thoroughly enjoyed my lectures.

On-site administration of your program

I whole-heartedly give a solid five stars to Tecwyn Vaughan Jones, my program adviser in Wales. A mere three stars goes to the Bangor Administration Office because their communication wasn't the best and the office hours were limited.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I loved living on-site with the other university students. The community styled flats allowed me to get to know students from the UK as well as other international students. The private bedroom/bathroom allowed for me to have my own space, but the shared kitchen and sectioned hallways allowed me to live and interact with everyone else too. Through this experience, I made many life-long friends while living in Bangor.

Food is very similar to the United States. You may get homesick for your favorite cereal, but you can quickly learn to navigate Morrisons, the local grocery store, for foods you enjoy. Eating out is relatively cheap in Bangor, so meeting up with friends is a great way to socialize. Cooking a home-cooked meal together is another great way to get to know other students.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

This program is well worth the experience alone, but the field trips planned are amazing and add so much to the cultural knowledge gained. Medieval castles, palaces, villages, coastlines, and mountains galore await your future...make sure to pack your camera! The program site is also very close to other countries to allow for cheap independent traveling. While abroad in Wales, I was able to visit France, Ireland, England, and Scotland!

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I felt very safe while in Wales and throughout my entire abroad experience. Common sense can keep anyone safe while in the UK.

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

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• Dorm

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• International Students
• Local Students