Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Tremendous cultural experience Past Review

By (Economics, Tufts University) - abroad from 01/28/2015 to 05/27/2014 with

IES Abroad: Amsterdam - Social Sciences & Humanities

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned a great deal about art and the history of the city. The program was definitely worthwhile!

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.

The courses were interesting and the professors were engaging. They did a tremendous job of taking us into the city and experiencing the sites. They also brought in great guest lecturers.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The abroad office was very close to the apartment complex we stayed in and very accessible. They did a great job making sure our transition was simple and easy.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Our apartment was nice and I liked living among other international students. The location was also fantastic.

* Food:

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

Amsterdam felt very safe and I do not know of anyone on program who had an incident.

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)

The markets and supermarkets are affordable in Amsterdam. Cooking is definitely the best way to get by.

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? ~$125
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Cook as often as possible and find the cheapest markets.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
  • International Students
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • 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?
  • The courses
  • Excursions
* What could be improved?
  • Integration with local students
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? That I could get involved with local student organizations.

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 Networker
An active student leader, it was important for you to network abroad as well. Once overseas, you sought out student clubs, volunteered with local organizations, or attended community events. You encouraged your friends join you, and often considered how you could reflect your international experiences in a resume.