Year Abroad at Peking University - PKU Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

My Chinese has obviously improved. However, Chinese universities cannot in any way compare to American universities. The lectures are a recitation of facts with no analysis; there is no discussion; no papers or exams are ever returned to students; and the readings are completely unnecessary. I've learned much from the experience of living in Beijing but not much from PKU.

On-site administration of your program

Nobody knows what they're doing. No one can answer questions I have about PKU policies. They don't seem to have any connection with the university outside of the Chinese language program.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

15 minute walk from campus, FX Hotel <br /><br /> I would have preferred to live alone (I have a roommate) but otherwise very good.

Beijing food is overly greasy and unhealthy. The food on campus is worse.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I didn't participate

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Health: the insurance provided by CIEE doesn't cover anything and isn't accepted in any hospital in China. Safety: China is very safe.

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

My reading and writing has improved, as I am writing papers in Chinese. My listening has improved from listening to lectures. Speaking hasn't improved as much.

Select all that apply

• Hotel

Select all that apply

• Americans

Select all that apply

• Local Students