Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Autralearn and New Zealand Blew my Mind! Past Review

By (Print journalism, University of Southern California) for

ISA Study Abroad in Auckland, New Zealand

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
to look more closely at the things I value and why. To look more closely at my home government/business and it's treatment of citizens and the environment. The development of strong leadership skills. Really questioning American consumerism. Mentoring younger students. Expanded world view and glimpsing the world stage. ...Fantastic relationships with beautiful, exotic and international women (What can I say, I was in college).

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 0-2 weeks

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

All reasonable and challenging.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* Food:

The food offered was not great, but you'll learn to cook.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

When to a Maori cultural museum, went to a Maori village

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

Never felt I had to watch my back. Auckland is a mellow city, lots of law enforcement too.

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)

Language

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? Fluent
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? Spanish 3

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • International Students
  • Americans

A Look Back

* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Stay open to new experiences. budget your money beforehand (at least roughly), make a list of personal goal and experiences you want to have out there and set out to achieve them. Use this opportunity to be your true and honest self.