Kasteel Well: The Happiest Place On Earth Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The courses were challenging, yet informative. I found that certain classes were more interesting than others, just as I found some instructors to be more helpful than others. Many classes found a way to incorporate students' travels with academics in a way that made the material more interesting.

On-site administration of your program

I have nothing but nice things to say about OSA and the administrative staff at Kasteel Well. I have never met a group of people so caring and committed to their students in all of my years of academia.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I was living in a castle overlooking a moat... there's really nothing I could complain about.

I didn't have a sweet tooth until I went to the Netherlands! Overall, the food seems to be more heavy and filling than the food I was accustomed to in the States. Most meals were very delicious and included several popular Dutch foods. There were a few times that I skipped meals because it was something I didn't enjoy, but that was rare. Meals are served three times a day at designated times. This is different from the Boston campus, but something all students grow accustomed to soon enough.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Most people in Well speak English. However, we had to get groceries at a Dutch grocery store/bakery, learn to use the public transportation, say "thank you" in Dutch, and eat local foods. I think it was a great experience.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I'm giving this 5 stars, although I didn't need to utilize the local health care. I just know that there were several people who had to see a local doctor and the staff was willing to drive them there. Most people were content with local healthcare and a few had complaints. There is no nurse on campus, but the local doctor isn't too far away. I didn't need any specific vaccines before leaving.

Well is a safe little town with friendly people. I never felt unsafe, even walking around at night. However, fair warning: don't get in the way of bicyclists in the Netherlands! They will run you over if you don't move.

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

I came back from Europe a new person and with an empty wallet. Expect to spend a lot of money depending on where you're traveling each weekend. Also, sometimes things come up (emergency expenses, lack of employment, etc.) Just be sure to budget before you leave and always have extra money in case of an emergency. Utilize an app for currency conversion. It's super helpful!

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• Dorm

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• Americans

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• Americans

• Amazing new friends
• Calling Kasteel Well home
• The chance to travel so much in such a short period of time

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