Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

A Summer in London Past Review

By (Communication and Science Disorders, University of Missouri - Columbia) - abroad from 06/07/2015 to 07/25/2015 with

IES Abroad: London - UK Today Summer

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
From studying aboard I gained more self confidence. Being in a foreign country on your own forces you to go out, explore the city, mature and become more assertive. I'm a shy person so being in a big city helped me to come out of my shell a little bit. It was definitely a worthwhile experience.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 0-2 weeks

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The academics in London compared to what I receive at my home university was a little different. I'm used to lectures, however, in London it was more informal and discussion based. I actually liked the discussions because it gave me an opportunity to hear from other classmates what they were taking away from the course. The UK grading scale is quite different however IES staff really tries to compare it to the US and help you achieve your goals in the classroom.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

I loved the IES Staff in London. Anytime I needed directions, advice, ideas for things to do or help with school work there were very willing to help me.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I stayed in a residence accommodation quite similar to a dorm on a US campus. I had one roommate who I shared a room and bathroom with. There was a kitchen on the floor that was shared with around 30 people. I loved the kitchen because it was a nice way to meet people studying at other universities in London from all over the world. However, there is no AC and there was a couple of days were it was unbearable to be in the room. Also, sometimes the staff as the residence hall was not the friendliest. There is a laundry room in the basement, however it was a little expensive. The accommodation was located right by King's Cross tube station so it was super easy to get around the city which was great.

* Food:

London offers so much as far as food. My two favorite meals would have to be the Turkish dinner and Indian dinner. Culturally, London has so much to offer in food. Also, the markets in London are a must. Borough, Camden and Spitafields were by far my favorite for food. They offer anything form Mexican to desserts and homemade lemonades.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

One of the downfalls of the program is that you are on studying abroad with fellow Americans so it was hard to fully get immersed with locals. However, there are plenty of opportunities to go to pubs, bars and clubs and meet locals there.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

IES staff explained the way the health care system in London. Any questions you have about a health concern they are more than happy to answer questions for students.

* Safety:

During our orientation on the first day we had a police officer come and talk to us about safety. After his lecture all my worries were put to rest. I never once felt like I was in danger. However, when traveling to tourist attractions such as Big Ben and Buckingham palace or outside of London I made sure to use a cross body purse because of the increased risk of pick pocketers. I never had a issue with theft though.

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)

Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? London is an expensive place to live. So when shopping for produce it's much cheaper to by those items at local markets.

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

  • Americans
  • 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? 0

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • the classes
  • the other students
* What could be improved?
  • -
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I wish I had known that this was an American only program. I assumed that going abroad I'd be in class with locals and other international students.

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!