Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

A Worthwhile Experience! Past Review

By (Arts & Sciences, University of Hartford) - abroad from 09/01/2018 to 12/01/2017 with

CIEE: Cape Town - Arts and Sciences

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
This program is both enjoyable and teaches you about both the physical, geographical beauty of South Africa and its history, both in terms of notable South African people and of apartheid and decolonization. Also, definitely would recommend for animal lovers as there are many beautiful animals in South Africa!

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? None

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?

* 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)

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $100
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Plan things to do with your friends, it will cost less money to go in a group!

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No
How much did the program encourage you to use the language?

0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • International Students
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • 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?
  • I loved meeting new people from America and South Africa
* What could be improved?
  • The excursions could be improved, many were cancelled during my term.
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? The flight (from the East Coast) is over 24 hours, be prepared! Also, the currency are Rand, and it is easy to use their ATMs with only about a $3 fee, with your American bank card. And there is uber in South Africa, but renting a car needs a down deposit and is hard to get. :)

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 Networker
An active student leader, it was important for you to network abroad as well. Once overseas, you sought out student clubs, volunteered with local organizations, or attended community events. You encouraged your friends join you, and often considered how you could reflect your international experiences in a resume.