Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Learned a lot of Arabic. Past Review

By (International and Global Studies, Brandeis University) - abroad from 09/01/2014 to 12/19/2014 with

CIEE: Amman - Language and Culture

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Definitely worthwhile. I gained great knowledge of the Middle East, improved at local and FusHa Arabic, got to know more about the culture, and make great friends.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 6 months+

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* Food:

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I think no matter how hard a westerner tries they will never be fully integrated into the culture.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? No

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)

Cost of living in Amman is very cheap.

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? about 100-110 per week
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Cook your own food, share cabs, don't get cheated by the locals, and learn how to haggle

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

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? Beginner
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? Beginner II
How many hours per day did you use the language? 10+
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? Talk to locals that you encounter and practice with friends

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
  • International Students
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
  • International Students
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?
  • My classmates and Friends
  • The local culture
  • Language immersion
* What could be improved?
  • Host University (PSUT)
  • CIEE's nickel and diming
  • Overall cost, Brandeis policy of full tuition
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? It's fine to wear shorts, gentlemen. Don't be too afraid of what they tell you about cultural norms.

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 Academic or Linguist
You went abroad with specific academic goals in mind; the program credentials and rigor of your coursework abroad were very important to you. You had a great time abroad, but never lost sight of your studies and (if applicable) were diligent with your foreign language study. Good for you!