Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Challenging, Exciting, Amazing Past Review

By (Public Policy Analysis/Politics, Pomona College) - abroad from 01/14/2016 to 05/11/2016 with

IES Abroad: Freiburg - European Union: Politics, Law & Economics

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
It was definitely worthwhile. I learned so much about the European Union, traveled constantly, met wonderful American/local friends and got the opportunity to learn a new language.

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 generally good, but there was a lot of busy-work. Time management was key. Overall, I enjoyed my classes, but they were not the highlight of my semester.

* 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

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

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? None
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Beginner
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? I had taken multiple French literature classes at Pomona, but I had never studied German prior to departure
How many hours per day did you use the language?
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? Meet German students and don't be shy!

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • 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?
  • Travel
  • Living with German/International Students
  • My summer internship opportunity, offered by my program
* What could be improved?
  • The class schedule
  • Too many tests
  • More emphasis on German language classes
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? -Always plan your trips in advance--don't waste time once you arrive looking up tourist attractions/restaurants. -Work hard in your classes, but don't miss out on opportunities with friends.

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!