London: Greatest Experience of my Life Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The overall academic experience was great. The professors were top-notch and honestly some of the best professors I have ever had in my academic career. The courses were as difficult as any course at my home institution. I went to London to learn about British history and British politics, and I was extremely satisfied with my learning experience. The grading system is slightly odd when compared to the American grading system. Other than that small difference there wasn't really too many differences in the educational system.

On-site administration of your program

At times the Host Country administration seemed a bit unorganized, but for the most part I was always happy with the administration. The director and all the other faculty and administrators in the Host Country center were incredible and I thoroughly enjoyed working with them and getting to know them.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I chose my housing by filling out a questionnaire and was placed by IES. I was not happy with my roommate because we did not get along, which I believe means that IES should change the way they place students. However, I don't fully blame IES - some people just do not click. Beyond my roommate issue, I enjoyed living in the dorms because you were in the same building as all of your friends within the program. The dorm is in the neighborhood of Chelsea, which is incredibly safe and an all-around wonderful place to live. The dorm was only a bus ride or tube ride away from night life and school. The dorm had pretty much everything you would need in terms of kitchen utensils, however students will need to buy some kind of bedding and towels as well as other types of things needed for dorm living.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

The field trips were always well thought out and made sense in terms of the course subjects. I spent fall break in Scotland, which was an incredible experience. Traveling is incredibly accessible from London and if you work your schedule in the most effective way there is a way to have a three day weekend for traveling.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Never once did I feel unsafe in London, whether that be on the tube, taking the bus home from a night out, or simply just walking around the neighbor in the evening. I will admit I am a male and probably felt more safe, but as long as you are smart and think about your surroundings, there really is nothing to worry about.

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

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• Dorm

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• Americans