I can now say that I have experience every human emotion possible! Past Review

By (Theatre Design/Technology, Emerson College) for

Emerson College: Kasteel Well: The Netherlands

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I can definitely say it was. I have learned many different things. From working with people that I may not necessarily like, to balancing my work and even becoming more responsible.

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 grading system was much harder. A few teachers even mentioned that they do not give out 'As, however, if you do the work and hand everything on time you will not have a problem. I found this to be extremely true. At first, I was a little overwhelmed by the amount of work between other classes and travel etc, but I was able to manage by the end.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

Overall I think it is a great program. It allows students to grow and see the world while having fun and continuing their education. One of the frustrations, I experienced was the poor communication between the Kasteel and the Boston offices. The Boston's packing list needs to be updated. Half of the "to bring" list is not necessary, while important things are left off the list.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The Kasteel was divided into dorm rooms that were acceptable. They were usually very spacious and everyone had their own space, however, did not have much privacy.

* Food:

The food was ok. It definitely could have been better, however, I do understand that American Culture has food to be full of flavor, while the Dutch food is lacking in some areas.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I remember one of the school excursions we went to a museum and there were other college students from the Netherlands. We all talked about our differences and it was neat to talk to them and listen to how they view the world. I wish I had more time to talk to them or even had more opportunities to interact with them.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

I had an issue with bloody noses and was a little nervous to go to the doctors. I was pleasantly surprised that they spoke english well and we were able to communicate perfectly with no problems. The doctor was able to prescript something to me and I was healed shortly after.

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

If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition?

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans

A Look Back

* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Anyone who is open to new things and seeing the world (obviously).

Individual Course Reviews

Course Name/Rating:

Hist West Art 3: Modern

Course Department: VM212
Instructor: Jenneke Lambert & Marjon Degroot
Instruction Language: English
Comments: Great course. It was nice to apply what we learned in class in the art galleries that we visit in different countries.
Credit Transfer Issues: No issues.
Course Name/Rating:

World Drama in Its Context 2

Course Department: TH216
Instructor: Emile Schra
Instruction Language: English
Comments: This class was ok. I wish it was more interactive. There is alot of information and I wish I was able to obtain more of the information because theatre is my major. The teacher was a little disorganized at times, and there was some problems communicating with him via email which was frustrating.
Credit Transfer Issues: No issues.
Course Name/Rating:

Topics in Global Literature

Course Department: LI211
Instructor: Liesje Schreuders
Instruction Language: English
Comments: This was a pretty good course for a general education requirement class. There was alot of reading, but it was a literature class, so that is expected. I believe the teacher did a great job teaching the material. (It was her first time teaching in English and she did a great job).
Credit Transfer Issues: No issues.
Course Name/Rating:

Special Topics in Ethics

Course Department: PH203
Instructor: G. Van Der Heide
Instruction Language: English
Comments: This was an ok course. It was a little dry for me just because I am not all that interested in Ethics. However, the teacher made the class fun and interesting at times. I appreciated his efforts.
Credit Transfer Issues: No issues.