Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

it was motivational and inspiring Past Review

By (University of Hartford) - abroad from 01/14/2019 to 05/04/2019 with

International Studies Institute / ISI Florence

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned a lot about myself and my future plans when I graduate. Going abroad was a terrific experience that was unforgettable.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? None

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The educational experience was fun and inspiring

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The administration for the program was great, if you needed help they were willing to help at anytime

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

My apartment was at the perfect location and we loved it

* Food:

The food was excellent, the restaurants were the best no matter where you go in italy

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I felt pretty integrated with the local culture, I was well aware of any important holidays or celebrations going on. In addition, the people were very welcoming.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

If you had any health problems they was a doctor or medical service available to you if need be

* Safety:

The city’s overall safety was good. You have to keep a look out for pick pocketer’s and if your living your apartment make sure you close your windows and doors.

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

Yes because they program made you feel welcome and the city was amazing

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)

2.5, it was fairly easy but we did exceed a certain amount sometimes if necessary.

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $200 a week maybe
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Don’t spend money on things you don’t need

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
How much did the program encourage you to use the language?

0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language

5, They encouraged you to speak the language everyday

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? Beginner
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Intermediate
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? Beginner
How many hours per day did you use the language?
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? The best way to learn a language is to speak it everyday with your friends, locals, and by yourself.

Direct Enrollment/Exchange

* Did you study abroad through an exchange program or did you directly enroll in the foreign university? Direct Enrollment

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
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?
  • Administration
  • Language class
  • school activities
* What could be improved?
  • classes
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I was pretty informed about everything before going to the program

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!