University of St. Andrews (IFSA-Butler) Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

I personally *chose* to take less rigorous classes--the University of St. Andrews offers some amazing courses, but my primary goal was to travel around the UK, especially Scotland, and so my academic experience was just what I needed: interesting and challenging enough that my brain didn't turn to mush, but not so rigorous that I couldn't leave to travel.

On-site administration of your program

Fantastic! The IFSA-Butler staff were incredibly friendly and helpful, always available to help or to just talk about traveling and life, or share funny stories.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

David Russell Apartments at St. Andrews were really nice--your own room/bathroom, with a shared flat kitchen/common space. The heated floors were particularly nice when winter set in. However, they were pretty isolated--if you are looking to integrate with other St. Andrews students, I would suggest choosing a different housing option.

The food at restaurants in St. Andrews: quite good--but VERY expensive. The Vic, the Grill House, and a bunch of other local places have the best food though. My personal favorite were the paninis (and the brownies) at Taste coffee shop. Nando's is excellent, and the University has a few cafes that have decent options. Pub food is great; Dominoe's does "Two for Tuesdays" which is a good way to save. Zizzis is good (expensive) Italian, and the Whey Pat is a must to try the Haggis Nachos (even haggis is palatable covered in salsa and good cheddar cheese). Cooking for yourself: the best way to be cheap. Tesco refrigerated meals are a godsend and far superior to frozen food you get in America. When in doubt, porridge for breakfast, or eggs, toast, and vegetables make for a good and cheap meal.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

See above about DRA housing. Part of this, again, was my personal choice to travel so much, that I didn't join many clubs or societies--join any of these, and you will instantly feel a part of St. Andrews.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I didn't have many experiences myself, but there was a flu vaccine clinic. Note: pharmacies close at 5:30 pm. If you need prescription medicine after this time, it's the emergency room for you. The hospital is fairly close (it's actually next to the grocery store Morrison's) so it's not a terrible thing.

I felt completely safe walking around late at night in St. Andrews! That said, use common sense--try to have someone with you and don't purposely walk down deserted and dark roads. Be careful on Raisin Weekend--this is a huge drinking weekend to the point of hospitalization for many students, so again, common sense. If you think it's a good idea to try to leap over a wickedly-spiked iron fence or jump into the frigid North Sea while plastered, then think again. Also: don't forget that in the UK, cars and bikes and all drive on the other side of the road! Look twice before crossing the street.

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

3--because I tried very hard. The UK is expensive, and so is St. Andrews as a town. Don't eat out too much or you will feel it. But shopping for yourself at Tesco or Morrisons, it's pretty doable.

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• Dorm
• Apartment

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• Local Students
• Americans
• International Students

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• Local Students
• Americans
• International Students

• Travel Opportunities
• IFSA-Butler Staff
• IFSA-Butler trips and reunion meals

• Integration with St. Andrews students
• More trips!