The dream semester! July 19, 2024

By (Brandeis University) - abroad from 01/29/2024 to 06/01/2024 with

IES Abroad: Amsterdam - Social Sciences & Humanities

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
You learn endless things every day in a new and diverse city like Amsterdam - you are surrounded by all different kinds of people and have access to tons of exciting experiences. The city is truly your oyster. I learned a lot about myself while overcoming obstacles and also just having fun!

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.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* 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:

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

Amsterdam was the best city for me, and I was overall very pleased with IES's programs, courses, and help while abroad. It certainly may not be for everyone, but I had an incredible semester!!

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)

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
How much did the program encourage you to use the language?

0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language

Taking Dutch was fun! But you do not need to speak it to get around Amsterdam.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

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

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • Americans
  • International Students

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • housing
  • resources and trips
  • kind staff
* What could be improved?
  • class absence policy !!!
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Cooking in a communal kitchen is not easy. People can be very dirty and inconsiderate :(

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 Outright Urbanite
A social butterfly, you're happiest in bustling cities with hip people, and took advantage of all it had to offer. You enjoyed the nightlife, and had fun going out dancing, and socializing with friends. Fun-loving and dressed to the nines, you enjoyed discovering new restaurants, shops, cafes, and bars in your host country.