London Bliss Past Review

By (Communication Studies & Psychology, Austin College) - abroad from 01/15/2012 to 05/05/2012 with

Central College Abroad: Study Abroad in London

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned about the British culture and discovered more about my identity as a person. It was definitely worthwhile! An adventure that I will never forget!

Personal Information

If you took classes at multiple universities, list those universities here: University of London London Southbank University
How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 6 months+

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

This program couldn't have been a more perfect fit: I had the freedom to explore London yet the mentoring I needed to have a safe, pleasant experience. The courses were wonderful as well with a variety of interesting topics to pick from! The professors were great and catered to our study abroad experience giving the students a chance to incorporate their learning through the culture of London.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

Perfect! The director and assistant director were always available, full of fun, and made sure we thoroughly enjoyed our stay in London comfortably.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The housing was in the heart of Central London: 5 min north you'd reach Buckingham Palace and 5 min south you'd reach the Thames River, Big Ben, Parliament, and Westminster Abbey! What more could I ask for? The housing has changed for the next set of incoming students however, closer to the University of London but nevertheless a fabulous spot and close to some fabulous markets and shopping with tourist spots just about 10 minutes away!

* Food:

Continental breakfast was served every morning! We had a full kitchen available to use for other meals. Grocery stores were around the corner and several food spots as well as shall be around the new housing.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Your fellow immediate peers are American as well. You interact with the locals yes but I would say my experience was enriched with social and cultural integration because of my internship where I interacted with my co-workers.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

All health care matters were explained to us upon our arrival. We were told where the local hospital and doctors' offices were. Any emergency and the staff was available to help.

* Safety:

Incredibly safe because of the housing location. Just make sure if you go out at night to travel at least in pairs for precaution.

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)

There is always great and affordable options available to you. You just have to be smart with your money and do your research.

* Was housing included in your program cost? Yes
* Was food included in your program cost? Yes
Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $125
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Plan a budget! It will help immensely to know where you stand throughout the semester with how much money you have.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Hotel
  • Hostel
* 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 freedom to explore London.
  • The location of housing.
  • Great advisers!
* What could be improved?
  • Nothing!!
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? How important it is to really plan a budget.