All That Is Gold Does Not Glitter in Jordan Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Overall, the academics were not that different from academics in the States. Many of the teachers had taught in the U.S. before so they understood American students and our expectations. The Arabic classes were difficult but the area studies were not as difficult as typical courses in my university. Overall, the academics were of good quality and the professors I had were able to give me viewpoints that I never could have gotten in the U.S.

On-site administration of your program

Most of the staff was personally invested in helping us get used to the country and to help us to experience all that we could. The trips that we took were a great way to see Jordan. However, when students had problems with host families or with professors, situations were not always handled tactfully or quickly, although the problems were usually solved. Also, communication from administration to students was often very poor and information was sent out late.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

My housing experience was one of the most challenging but also the most rewarding part of studying abroad. My host family welcomed me as part of their family. I still keep in contact with them and we are trying to make plans to visit each other in the future. They provided me with everything I needed (other than toiletries), although this was not always the case with other students.

Surprisingly, the food in Jordan is fairly bland compared to American food, and consists mostly of chicken and rice variations. There are a few gems that you can find, but don't have high expectations. It was fairly easy to find vegetarian options, although it was harder to find dairy or gluten free. For finding the best food, never judge the outside look of a store on whether the food is any good. Look for busy places that look like a dump, and you've probably found one of the best spots in town.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Jordan's natural areas are incredible, and taking both the CIEE-sponsored and personal trips into the desert, the northern hills, or the eastern swamps are the some of the best ways to get to know others in your program and to explore the country.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I felt safer in Amman than I do in San Antonio, TX. Violence is very low and the police system is excellent and extremely responsive, especially to foreigners. The only thing you will have to consider is avoiding demonstrations, although I rarely ran into these. Health-wise, it is nearly inevitable that you will have digestion issues. Be sure to bring some stool softener or anti-diarrheal medication with you and make sure the meat you eat has been well-cooked.

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

Don't be afraid to mess up. Although the first few weeks will be very frustrating in how well you're able to communicate keep pushing yourself to speak as much as possible. The people love it when you try. Most people do speak some amount of English so if all else fails in Arabic you can usual figure the rest out in English.

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• Apartment
• Host Family

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• Host Family

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• Americans

• The homestay
• The CIEE-sponsored trips

• Academic and travel balance
• Internet access