ISA London: Best Experience of My Life! Past Review
By Laura V (Physical Education/Health, Montclair State University) for
ISA Study Abroad in London, England
I have gained a broader perspective on different cultures and even our own. I've become much more culturally aware.
Personal Information
| How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | 0-2 weeks |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
There was more responsibility on the students with work and studying. There weren't many tests and no quizzes between mid-terms and finals. |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
The program administrator was always available for help day or night. The office had long hours and students could always reach the administrator whenever necessary via cell phone. The activities and trips were well-planned and always fun and educational. I felt right at home despite being in another country. |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
The neighborhood I lived in was exciting and had everything I needed within a few blocks' walk. It was necessary to purchase bedding but there was already cookware available to students from previous students who donated them upon their departure from the country. There were also some other miscellaneous items available (hair dryer, straightener, iron, etc.). Class was located almost across town but was very easily accessed by using the underground. |
| * Food: |
Food is England is what you expect. Nothing too exciting but I sure do miss fish and chips and Sunday roast! |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
Every trip was a memorable one. I made a lot of really good friends, most of which I have remained in contact with since returning to the states. We also went to a few movies premieres which was really exciting. Anything our coordinator planned was fun and educational on different levels. |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
City was very safe. I didn't experience any problems during my stay. Police aren't allowed to carry guns in London, which was a bit of a surprise. Also, there were CCTVs EVERYWHERE! Walking down the street, in restaurants, buses, even the tubes were being monitored. Safety was a high priority in London. Also, there were no trash bins in the tube stations for safety reasons. |
| If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? |
Yes
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Finances
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* 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) |
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Language
| Language acquisition improvement? |
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Other Program Information
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* Where did you live?
Select all that apply |
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* Who did you live with?
Select all that apply |
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A Look Back
| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | Do it! Studying abroad was really the best experience of my life. I met so many new people and made so many friends. ISA couldn't have been more helpful and supportive. The staff was fantastic from pre-departure to returning to the states. I was so comfortable, thanks in large part to the program coordinator, I felt like London was my home. I never wanted to leave! Anyone who is looking to broaden their mind and do something fun and exciting that not many other people do should definitely study abroad and choose London as their destination! |
