Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

A fast-paced rigorous journey in London. Past Review

By (Philosophy, Brandeis University) - abroad from 01/12/2019 to 04/20/2019 with

Hansard Scholars Programme: London - Hansard Society

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I gained insight into the workings of UK Parliament which is worthwhile for anyone interested in political systems.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 6 months+

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Classes were rigorous but manageable.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

While the administrators for the program were highly receptive to feedback, aspects of the program were poorly planned and there was confusion around how the program worked.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The location of the housing was excellent, but the facilities were mediocre.

* Food:

The food was good.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

After the first few weeks I think I was able to integrate fairly well into British society.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

No issues.

* Safety:

I always felt safe on the program.

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

Overall, I think I learned as much from this program as I could have hoped to while abroad.

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)

London is an expensive city and food and supplies are no exception.=

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $230
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? The best way to save money in London is to cook your own food.

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
  • International Students
* 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?

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • The internship
  • Living in London
  • The other students on the program
* What could be improved?
  • The organization
  • the classes
  • the timeline for the program
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I wish I had written a dissertation before.

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!