Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Living La Vita Bella Past Review

By (University of Southern California) - abroad from 09/02/2013 to 12/19/2013 with

IES Abroad: Milan - Study Abroad With IES Abroad

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
It was definitely a worthwhile experience! I significantly improved my Italian language skills and I learned so much about not only Italian culture, but also European culture. I was able to experience first hand the differences and similarities between regions and also learned about Italy's political structure. I gained a lot of practical experience, such as how to best travel between countries and communicate with limited language skills.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? None

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? Yes
How much did the program encourage you to use the language?

0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • Americans
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • 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?
  • The Community Assistants-who were Italian college students that worked for IES and provided information/support and became trusted friends.
  • The expansive course offerings/universities that one could take courses at.
  • Offering of cultural events to attend and a supportive staff to answer any questions and help with travel questions!
* What could be improved?
  • The registration process for courses was initially a little confusing.
  • Encouraging students to use Italian more.
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I wish I knew how quickly my time would be over! I would have liked to plan more trips and set more goals!

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!