Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

My study abroad experience was completely transformational! Past Review

By (Howard University) - abroad from 01/21/2019 to 06/08/2019 with

IES Abroad: Cape Town - University of Cape Town

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned the true value of living in the moment. I enhanced my intercultural communication skills, and I truly transformed as an individual. It was the best time of my life.

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

I would do this program again without a doubt! It was a very supportive and culturally immersive program.

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? $80 per week approximately
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Please budget for groceries and avoid eating out often. If it is safe, please budget for public transportation and take advantage of free shuttle services to avoid more expensive transportation costs such as Uber. Have at lest $1500 saved prior to traveling abroad.

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

  • Local Students
  • 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? 10+

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Service-Learning
  • Cultural Immersion
  • Independence & Autonomy
* What could be improved?
  • Dorm Options
  • Community Tours
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I wish I would have taken a language as a course, and I wish I knew that it was smarter to avoid taking major courses abroad.

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.