Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

A Semester in Historic Edinburgh Past Review

By (Art History, Criticism and Conservation., Brandeis University) - abroad from 09/04/2013 to 12/21/2013 with

IFSA: Edinburgh - University of Edinburgh

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
My semester in Edinburgh was definitely worthwhile. Edinburgh is a great location for a semester abroad. I gained an appreciation for Scottish history and culture, a heightened sense of independence, and some incredible experiences traveling around the UK and Europe.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 2 weeks - 1 month

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The IFSA Scotland staff are incredibly helpful, generous with their time, and concerned about your experience.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I loved living in a flat with a mix of American and British students.

* 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

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? Remember the conversion rate when you are spending money. If you plan on traveling around the UK, invest in the Youth rail card early on -- it's worth it. Plan your trips abroad early on -- the earlier you book flights and train rides, the cheaper they will be.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* 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?
  • The location -- Edinburgh is a beautiful, historic city that has a lot to offer.
* What could be improved?
  • Academic integration at the University of Edinburgh
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? The importance of budgeting when the conversion rate is unfavorable.

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!