Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

I love Second City so much I'm moving back out there after I graduate Past Review

By (Brandeis University) - abroad from 01/22/2019 to 05/09/2019 with

Columbia College Chicago - Comedy Studies at The Second City

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Completely changed my work ethic. I have such a better understanding of how to approach making and applying comedy.

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.

It's a consistent workload - multiple projects each week. Never an overwhelming amount, but for sure requires keeping on top of.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I had to find housing on my own, but honestly having my own apartment was ideal.

* Food:

Same as above.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

The Second City community is incredible, the teachers and students there are such a great support system.

* 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? Yes

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)

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

  • Local Students
  • Americans
  • Other
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • Americans
  • Other
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?
  • The work
  • The teachers
  • The people I got to work with
* What could be improved?
  • Getting my commuter pass was a process that could be made easier
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? People told me "going abroad" to Chicago was a dumb idea, and I'm glad I ignored that because I had a lot of doubt at first but it was one of the best experiences of my life.

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.