Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

The best 3 months possible Past Review

By (Technical and Business Writing., Emerson College) - abroad from 01/16/2014 to 04/16/2014 with

Emerson College: Kasteel Well: The Netherlands

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned that there is so much to see. I saw a lot through this program, but I know there is still so much more to explore. These 3 months were just the tip of the iceberg. Going to the castle was the best choice I think I've ever made.

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 professors at the castle are some of the most brilliant people you will meet in your life. All experts in their field, they will provide international insight and viewpoints on a huge range of topics.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The administration at the castle were kind, helpful, and friendly. They knew each of us by name, and made sure we were always informed about what was going on.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

There's nothing like living in a castle! The rooms were huge and unique, and the view of the moat with the icing on the cake.

* Food:

The food was traditional Dutch cuisine-- can't say I'm a fan.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* 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)

While at the castle, no money was spent. While traveling, too much was.

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $100
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Budget, and use skyscanner.com to find the cheapest flights. Make sure you understand the conversion in each country you go to.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with? 0

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Traveling
  • The other students
  • The people who worked there
* What could be improved?
  • Food at the castle
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? You will regret staying home more than you will regret spending money.

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 Academic or Linguist
You went abroad with specific academic goals in mind; the program credentials and rigor of your coursework abroad were very important to you. You had a great time abroad, but never lost sight of your studies and (if applicable) were diligent with your foreign language study. Good for you!