Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Changes in perspective and understanding while living abroad Past Review

By (Berea College) - abroad from 01/13/2017 to 05/05/2017 with

CISabroad (Center for International Studies): Cusco - Semester in Cusco

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned what it felt like to be different. I was the minority and I was able to gain new perspectives on the thoughts and feelings that minorities must deal with everyday. It opened my eyes and humbled me.

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.

I enjoyed my educational experience while I was abroad. The classes were interesting and not overbearing. They allowed me to have the opportunity to travel and explore as well as learn about the culture and history through my travels and classes.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The on-site director in Cusco could have done a better job of talking to the students. He very rarely ever checked on us or saw us. He did help us plan some excursions while travelling but that was about it.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I enjoyed my living arrangements. However, I would suggest making sure they advertise better. Some of the things the program originally claimed to be there was not. I did not have a kitchen in my apartment and that would have been nice to know ahead of time.

* Food:

The food in Peru was amazing. I miss it already.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I loved the culture.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I had to stay a few nights in the hospital while in Peru. The healthcare was very different and it was hard to understand while barely knowing the language.

* Safety:

Cusco was safe and I never felt threatened or in harms way.

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

I enjoyed my experience and am more than grateful for the opportunities that were given to me.

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)

I was able to budget and live comfortably while in Peru. I could live on about $100 a week and even less than that some weeks.

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? ~$90-100
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? I suggest finding cheap and safe places to eat. I budgeted most of my money so that I could travel more and eat cheaply.

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

I spoke and practiced Spanish everyday.

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? Spanish 2
How many hours per day did you use the language?
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? The best way to practice is to go out and start conversations with people. Put yourself out there and try your hardest.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
  • Hotel
* 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?
  • Opportunity to travel
  • Food
  • Culture
* What could be improved?
  • Housing
  • On-site director
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I wish I had known more information about the school and program

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.