A Summer in Shanghai: A Life-Changing Experience Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

See my comments about the classes above. As long as you're at least semi-serious about getting your work done, you shouldn't have a problem. The teachers know you're there to explore and have fun in addition to class, so as long as you show that you're putting forth some effort they'll cut you some slack.

On-site administration of your program

While I was disappointed with some of the program-organized trips (they were VERY touristy, not really my thing), everything else was amazing. We students were given a lot of freedom (some might argue TOO much, haha), and had a great time exploring Shanghai and the surrounding areas.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

We had three housing options: off-campus host family, dorm with a local roommate, dorm with an American roommate. I lived in the dorm with a local roommate, which I think was the best option. Having a Chinese roommate allowed me to learn so much about the culture, including more up-to-date colloquialisms and phrases you just won't see in a textbook. It also helped in meeting other Chinese students, and the extra time spent speaking Chinese really paid off.

Food is a love and hate situation for most people. The Chinese don't have the classic breakfast/lunch/dinner divide we have here in America, and dessert (except for fruit) is almost non-existent. That being said, real Chinese food is amazing if you know where to go (there's nothing like in the States). It's also super cheap. The only downside is that you WILL have some digestive issues. Bring plenty of diarrhea medicine and Tums.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

The CIEE events, while fun and entertaining, were very touristy. Most excursions ended up with all the students in a market of some sort (I have a feeling this was not a coincidence). That being said, they did take us to quite a few interesting places I would not have found on my own.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Long story short, I felt safer in China than I did in America. In order to encourage foreign investment, China has enacted laws than enforce stronger penalties for crimes against foreigners, so I never even came near to being in trouble. Health is another issue. China is dirty, no way around it. Bring plenty of medicine and hand sanitizer, don't drink the water, and be sure to eat a few vegetables with your jiaozi!

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

Most Chinese do not have a very firm grasp of the English language, but there are still plenty who do, especially the college students by whom you're surrounded. I met with a language two twice a week for an hour in addition to my Mandarin class, which helped. Also, while being able to speak Chinese is not an imperative to studying abroad in Shanghai, you will have a much better/easier time if you at least attempt to use the language. The Chinese know how hard their dialect is, and will go to great lengths to accommodate foreigners who show some effort.

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• Dorm

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• Local Students

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• Americans