Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Texas Girl in England Past Review

By (Human Biology, The University of Texas at Austin) - abroad from 09/14/2013 to 12/12/2014 with

IFSA: Brighton - University of Sussex

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned about myself. I learned how to be content with being on my own and adjust to new situations. I also learned how to make decisions in frustrating or even scary situations.

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.

I felt that overall, I gained the academic experience I wanted. I do feel that I could have been better advised how the class assignment system works abroad so that I was more understanding (at the University of Sussex their courses were pre-set for them while I'm typically allowed to chose what classes I take freely-- this made scheduling in time blocks a little more difficult). I felt that lectures were helpful, but found that I was not offered enough outside resources or guidance to excel like I was at my home university.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I lived in East slope. For the social aspect of it, the housing was great. However the housing was very uncleanly and a little sketchy at times. I also wish the program would have integrated me with more locals rather than just exchange students.

* Food:

I cooked for myself. There were no on campus meal plans as these are actually uncommon in Europe.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I did experience a sinus infection abroad. As their health care policy is different, they typically do not give out antibiotics which I found to be a problem since I had a severe sinus infection. However, I was satisfied with my overall level of treatment.

* Safety:

I do wish I had been advised a bit better that the city I was going to was known for its nightlife. This presented some problems with my roommates and with the safety of campus at times. Its something you just have to be conscious of as a student.

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? Plan travel early. Cook if you can.

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

  • Local 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?
  • Friends
  • Traveling
* What could be improved?
  • Assimilation/Pre-leaving education
  • Integration of abroad advisors and home advisors-- it was more than frustrating to get classes approved in time for add/drop deadlines
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Take a deep breath, keep going.

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!