Castle in the Netherlands = Awesome Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The academics at the castle were well put together. The work load was just as intense, if not more so, than what you would usually expect at the Boston campus. Some teachers perhaps assigned work of a higher difficulty than normal as a way of proving that just because you're in Europe doesn't mean academics are frivolous. At the same time, most of the teachers were really great people and educators. I had language barriers with a few of them but it ended up working out in the end.

On-site administration of your program

The administration at the castle consists almost entirely of the Office of Student Affairs (OSA). The four members working here are the greatest people I met in the Netherlands. They are extremely helpful in all matters of life, not just ones strictly relating to school or academics. I felt like I could talk to them about anything.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

This study abroad program is based in a castle, which was kind of amazing. The town of Well where it is located isn't exactly a buzzing place but it's easy to get to train stations and other hubs of transportation. Lots of general life items were provided, like a pillow, blankets, laundry facilities, but I would've liked access to a refrigerator, microwave or any sort of cooking facility.

The staff in charge of food at the castle are wonderful people. It's all done by Stefan and Nellie and their son Yanto and it's actually really yummy food. They listened to our suggestions and always made things of a high quality.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

There are no Friday classes held at the castle in order to make travel across Europe easier for us. I had the most amazing cultural and social experiences of my life when I was there. Not only did I meet new Emersonians while living abroad, I made friends with lots of local Dutch people and other Europeans during my travels.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

In order to get into the castle you have to tap a microchip against a code reader for the doors to unlock. I never felt unsafe at any time inside the castle grounds. Well is a very safe little town too and I had no problem walking anywhere alone, even as it was getting dark.

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

Select all that apply

• Dorm

Select all that apply

• Americans