Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

The most fun and re-affirming experience I have ever had in comedy. Past Review

By (Brandeis University) - abroad from 01/09/2018 to 05/18/2018 with

Columbia College Chicago - Comedy Studies at The Second City

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I re-affirmed my passion for comedy.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 0-2 weeks

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The workload is really what you make of it, I found the work to be exciting, fun, and challenging so I spent lots of time doing it. If you love comedy it doesn't feel like too much work but it is a incredibly rigorous program.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

Some of the most amazing, caring, and passionate teachers I have ever had. They take individual care in every student.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I was in a mediocre location with horrible roommates not in the program. Make sure you find a place with good people.

* Food:

The food in Chicago is great! Not enough veggies unless you cook for yourself. Cooking with friends was the best way to eat! The program does not offer food.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I saw 3 comedy shows a week and traveled all around Chicago with my ventra card. Best city to learn comedy because it is constantly happening around you.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I went to the counseling center weekly for therapy sessions included in my tuition.

* Safety:

You're in a city. Be smart and travel with friends.

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

It was the most fun and I met the best people.

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)

It was hard not to have a meal plan. Meal planning and prep are the biggest expenses. Rent is expensive as well.

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? 150 a week.
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Cook your own food. Take public transit.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Direct Enrollment/Exchange

* Did you study abroad through an exchange program or did you directly enroll in the foreign university? Direct Enrollment

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Other
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • Americans
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?
  • My friends.
  • My teachers.
  • All I learned about comedy.
* What could be improved?
  • Food.
  • Apartment.
  • Expenses.
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Find good people to live with. Work hard and give your all. See as many shows as your can.

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.