Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Awesome experience! February 20, 2023

By (Occasional Science, Middlebury College) - abroad from 09/26/2022 to 12/02/2023 with

IFSA: Dublin - University College Dublin

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I gained a lot of independence from my experience abroad. I also learned a lot about many different cultures, as there were many international students. It was worthwhile and I would love to study abroad again.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 6 months+

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Most classes had class material available and professors were willing to support me and any questions. One of my classes however provided little feedback and it was very difficult to improve as the professor didn't give time to ask many questions.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

My advisor was extremely responsive and helpful. My questions were always answered very quickly, and she made adjusting to the university very easy.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* Food:

I did cook my own food as there wasn't a food program included, however getting groceries and supplies was very easy.

* 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

I really enjoyed being able to take multiple different courses as it helped me figure out which classes I like more than others.

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? 100
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? I would plan grocery shopping ahead of time to make sure you stick to a budget you are comfortable with.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • International Students
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • 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?
  • Travel experiences.
* What could be improved?
  • Communication with professors.
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I wish I knew how much independence was needed prior to going.