Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Simply Irresistible!!! Past Review

By (Accounting, Trinity University) - abroad from 01/10/2017 to 05/12/2017 with

IES Abroad: Milan - Study Abroad With IES Abroad

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned about being completely independent. I also learned plenty on the refugee crisis. It was definitely worthwhile because I was able to experience a different culture and learn at the same time.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 1 month - 6 months

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Not a very rigorous program.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

Everyone is very friendly and nice. Always willing to help you.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I was a Homestay. My host family was very nice. We always had dinner together and even invited me to go out for dinner or some type of activity.

* Food:

Italian food is amazing!!

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

It was very easy and accessible.

* Safety:

Milan is very safe. There is a lot of pickpocketing so you have to be aware of your surrounds at all times.

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

It was everything I wanted. Great location. Perfect size. People are very friendly.

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)

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? I spent around 80 euros a week.

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
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? Live with a host family.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* 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?
  • Location
  • IES Staff was very friendly
  • There are may things to do in Milan
* What could be improved?
  • Length of classes
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? To plan ahead and purchase flights around Europe earlier.

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 Networker
An active student leader, it was important for you to network abroad as well. Once overseas, you sought out student clubs, volunteered with local organizations, or attended community events. You encouraged your friends join you, and often considered how you could reflect your international experiences in a resume.