PKP program in Cambridge - Pembroke-King's Programme Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Cambridge is a tough school and it is easy to feel intimidated by the professors and by the other students. However, the classes are similarly structured to American classes with the exception of more outside prep instead of learning everything through lecture. The workload is heavy especially in the reading area but seminars makes it easier to digest the information and to ask question in a smaller group setting.

On-site administration of your program

Every expectation was met. They are easy to find and speak to about anything and are very helpful!

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I stayed at Spalding Hostel which is an off campus King's College owned Hostel across the street from King's College. <br /><br /> The rooms are very spacious with a sink and vanity area included. There are water closets (toilets) and showers on every floor as well as a kitchen on every floor. The kitchen is already filled with cookware and cleaning supplies. The building has easy access to the college and to markets close by. The school also provided bedding and towels which are changed weekly for us by a cleaning staff. However, there is no air conditioning which can make it hot at times but it is not unbearable. Some students have bought fans for there rooms, but I have found it unnecessary so far.

The food is not typical cafeteria food. Many times items such as chilled salmon are served. I find it difficult to find simple items to eat. At dinner we are served items such as duck confit and couscous. The food is not bad, but there are times when I personally need something simple due to my stomach getting easily upset by certain foods. Also, it is very difficult finding drinking options. The dinning halls give an option of water, orange juice, apple juice and wine at all the meals and the glasses are very small. Water especially is difficult to get a hold of unless you go to a store and buy bottled water.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

We went to Richmond, Edinburgh Scotland, and Fountains Abbey on one weekend which was amazing. We saw castle ruins, the Roslyn Chapel, the Abbey and other great national landmarks across England and Scotland. We also will get a day trip to London. PKP also has Formal Halls where we all dress up and a candle lit dinner is served. It is a nice experience to get to know the people around you.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Just always look like you know what your doing. Try to avoid looking like a tourist and then you won't be targeted for theft or other crimes. I was stopped on several occasions in London by people asking me for directions even though in reality I was just as lost as they were. I have not had any health risks but Cambridge has a nurse on call and can make room stops if you are too ill to go to her.

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

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• Hostel
• Dorm

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• Local Students
• Americans

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• Americans