An Inspiring and Educational Experience Past Review
By A student (Environmental Studies and Economics, Northeastern University) - abroad from 04/07/2012 to 04/15/2012 with
Global Student Embassy: Service Program in Ecuador
Traveling with GSE was easily one of the best choices I have made so far. I learned not only about the environmental and political issues facing my generation but more importantly I learned how to address these problems in a positive and active way. I've learned extremely valuable lessons about sustainability in terms of agriculture as well as the biological science behind the lessons. This trip was by far worthwhile and has inspired me to continue to work with the Global Student Embassy to this day.
Personal Information
| How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | 0-2 weeks |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
This is a highly educational trip that allows you to observe, conceptualize and actually gain hands on experience with sustainable agricultural techniques along with a surprisingly detailed emphasis on the cultural history between the country you are working in and your country of origin (U.S.). |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
The host country administration is without a doubt what makes the trips. Lucas, Ricky, Wyeth, Jen and the local administration are all extremely fun to be around. They are inspiring, love to work hard and will definitely push you to try new things while constantly educating you on the environment and your surroundings in a humorous and engaging fashion. |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
Camping on the beach in Bahia was the single greatest experience I have ever had camping. As for the hostels we stayed in they all felt safe and were run by friendly, organized locals. |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
We were working with the community nearly everyday through schools or otherwise. All meals were had in a local cultural context and many of the staff helped to give you an idea of what the culture was like. |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
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| If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? |
Yes
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Finances
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* 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) |
All accommodations were provided. |
| Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? | About $20 |
Language
| * Did your program have a foreign language component? | Yes |
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How much did the program encourage you to use the language?
0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language |
There was certainly encouragement to use the language but it was not required. |
| How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? | Advanced |
| How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? | Advanced |
| What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? | Advanced Spanish |
| How many hours per day did you use the language? | 10+ |
Other Program Information
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* Where did you live?
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* Who did you live with?
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* Who did you take classes with?
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| 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? |
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| * What could be improved? |
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| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | You will not regret it. |
