Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

An Unforgettable Experience (sorry, not very creative) Past Review

By (University of Southern California) - abroad from 07/08/2017 to 07/29/2017 with

Fulbright Killam Foundation: Exchange Program

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Undoubtedly worthwhile. I have definitely learned more about being on my own and taking on that responsibility. I also learned many tips and tricks on exploring and becoming knowledgeable about an area which is something I plan to do even back home. It feels good knowing the history and cool facts about the place you are existing in. From my class, my skills in the area have definitely improved exponentially and I am grateful for that. I also learned a lot on being open to new cultures and people. Throughout my time, I met local, international students, and even Americans who grew up and live differently. It was interesting learning about other people and their thoughts and feelings.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 2 weeks - 1 month

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

My academic course was definitely one of the best parts of my experience. It helped me learn so much more about London than I would have if I had simply gone for vacation. My professors were always more than willing to explain the UK system and answer any questions I had. They showed us all the great resources the university offers; personally, I had no trouble when I used the library and computer labs for research. Overall, everything was excellent.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The administration was always friendly and willing to help. No complaints here.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I stayed at Alexander Fleming Residence Halls. Overall, I liked the area we were in. We were close to the tube stop, Sainsbury's, some restaurants, and shops. I also enjoyed it because I had the opportunity to explore East London and Shoreditch.

* Food:

In terms of university food, I did not really buy or try any of it. For food in London, I would say it's good. Some places were better than others. I did cook a couple times and that was interesting.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

At first, it was a bit difficult because everything was new despite it all being in the same language as home.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

No applicable.

* Safety:

I did not find anything out of the ordinary. Just like any place, one must always take precaution for their own safety. People on buses and theaters would always go over emergency exits and other safety measures.

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

I love that University of Westminster is spread out around London. London became our campus in the few weeks we spent there.

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)

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? About 200 a week sounds right
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Sometimes, I would convert the price to how much it would cost back home and that would usually scare me into not buying something.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No
How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? None

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

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

Select all that apply

  • Americans
  • International Students
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?
  • Photography Module and Professors
  • Social Programme
  • Class Schedule (i.e. afternoons free, Fridays off)
* What could be improved?
  • More UK students would be nice
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I knew this, but I didn't full listen to it. London weather is unpredictable. Pack as if you will experience each season.

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!