Jordan: It's probably your best option for studying Arabic Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The workload was pretty light and grading was average, not too challenging. The actual institution, University of Jordan, was terribly equipped with a small library (not many English language books), ancient technology and no usable public restrooms. The CIEE facilities across the street were fine and in the same building was the TAGKs center, which was basically the only place in all of Amman that had decent wireless internet. These drawbacks were not all that serious though, and all in all I had a great experience.

On-site administration of your program

The program was highly regulated- they always knew where we were and were looking after us. This could be a drawback since it limited our travel, but I'm grateful that they kept us safe. They were attentive to the needs of the students and were very gracious about listening to us complain about things that couldn't be changed. They knew exactly how students our age behave, what makes us happy, and how to treat us. It was a hard position for them because they had to treat us like adults while keeping us safe in the Middle East. They walked the line as well as I could have hoped.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

My host family worked out fine. My host mom was a little nuts but it all added to the flavor. I was very near the campus but the apartment was very simple. I had to get a gym membership just to take a hot shower. And I slept on the most uncomfortable bed! Your freedom is very limited in a home stay. I had a 12 o'clock curfew (and I was lucky, some people had a 10 o'clock one!). My host mom always had to know where I was. All in all it was a good experience. I would recommend being in a homestay over staying in an all-American apartment. I got a much better cultural experience that way.

The food in Jordan is amazing!!!! It was a highlight of my whole experience. There are some great, cheap places by the university that you'll find out about quickly. Blue Fig has the best cocktail menu and western style food. Cantaloupe and Books@cafe and al-Quds on Rainbow Street are good options. The ultimate place is Amigo's by first circle. It's a dive bar with the best burgers you will ever have in your life. I spent most of my weekends there- the staff is great and if you become a regular you'll get all kinds of free stuff. I actually miss Amigos a lot.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I went to an engagement party- it was the best! Also the CIEE trips were great.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

There is almost no crime in Amman- the culture simply doesn't allow law breaking. You will be swindled pretty regularly and men might follow you home (scary!) but violence and thievery are very uncommon. The climate is warm and arid so I've never been healthier. I don't think I needed any vaccines.

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

Nearly everyone spoke English. I learned certain things really well, like taxi interactions and falafel purchases. For more complex things, I would always use English. I stayed in a host family and they spoke English too. It was entirely my fault but I spoke more English with them than I should have. I regret it!

Select all that apply

• Host Family
• Apartment

Select all that apply

• Americans
• Host Family

Select all that apply

• Americans