Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

The Real London Experience Past Review

By (English (Creative Writing), University of Puget Sound) - abroad from 09/12/2014 to 12/13/2014 with

IES Abroad: London Direct Enrollment - Queen Mary

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I wanted to determine whether or not I want to study in the UK for my postgraduate degree, and I also wanted to generally experience London life, and I was able to perceive that I would probably not enjoy studying under the British education system for postgraduate education, but that I would like to work in the UK at some point in my life. I also gained a better sense of who I am, and of my strengths and weaknesses as a person, and a stronger grasp on grammatical structures for MLA paper writing.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 2 weeks - 1 month

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

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? 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
* 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?
  • Location
  • Transportation
  • Entertainment
* What could be improved?
  • Food
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Students should be aware that service people may seems less friendly, but that is just how customer service is: less engaged. I was very surprised, and it may be a bit jarring at first, but you also, generally, don't have to tip. Although it is nice to tip people, you would save that mostly for really excellent service. Also, it's crazy cold in the winter, so bring a heavy jacket.

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!