Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Place was sweet as July 22, 2025

By (Computer Science, Brandeis University) - abroad from 02/11/2025 to 06/19/2025 with

IFSA: Dunedin - University of Otago

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned so much about the Māori indigenous point of view, life and politics in a smaller country, the experience of being a foreigner abroad, and how to have fun with just about anyone.

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.

* 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

IFSA is a great program that prepares, entertains, and helps you throughout. Expect included restaurant meals and experiences!

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)

Food is cheaper than in the US. especially if you go to Pak n Save. Going out to eat is also much cheaper!

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? 100$/week
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Learn to cook

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Other
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • Americans
  • 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?
  • Group trips
  • 24/7 very friendly staff
  • 3 day wildlife orientation
* What could be improved?
  • Can't think of anything! Just don't change it.
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Make plans with your new friends to go places in your host country early and often, because that's how you explore the country.

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 Avid Adventurer
The wardrobe you packed was better suited for a semester of camping than club hopping. Outdoorsy, you might forgo a crazy night out for an early all-day adventure. You'd rather take in the rich culture of an old town than the metropolis of a modern city, but for you getting off the grid is ideal.