Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

UK: We Might Both Speak English, But It's Still Different Past Review

By (Kinesiology, New Mexico State University) for

ISEP Exchange: Sunderland - Exchange Program at University of Sunderland

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
My study abroad experience was rather good, despite some odd happenings. Although I hadn't realized it, my acceptance for differences has grown, and I didn't realize this until returning and talking with people who have never been abroad. I now feel that everyone should spend some time abroad, not as a tourist, but actually living in the culture. I've learned a lot, especially about European culture in general compared to the general American mentality about life. If anything, I've come to appreciate America more, although I really enjoyed the public transportation of British/European cities. Academically, I can't wait to get back the American system. While it can be expensive to travel, studying abroad has only increased my desire to travel more and see more of the world.

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.

In American tests, it is known that if you answer all the questions correctly, you get a 100. However, in the British grading system, they aren't really looking for you to get a good grade. Something like a 55-65 is considered a good grade, which can be hard on an American ego that is used to thinking of a 90-100 as a good grade. As far as workload, there was little work outside of classes besides reading. Grades depended on a project (essay/practical) turned in around the end of November and then the final exams in January. While something similar happens in many American universities, I feel that more is expected of you throughout the semester in the American system.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

I felt that this program's study abroad office was rather weak, and perhaps understaffed. The office was located on a floor that inaccessible to students, which allowed students to only contact the administrator by email or phone. She was typically quick to reply to emails, but it was inconvenient to not be able to just go directly there to ask questions or get papers lined out. As far as I know, there were only two people working in the Study Abroad department. I would have also liked to know more about the differences between the British and American grading systems, as they are quite different.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* Food:

Food here wasn't too different than in the US. However, if you are from the Southwest, like I am, it was rather hard to get accustomed to not having Mexican food and red/green chile. However, one should definitely try the local cuisine, especially the fish and chips. A big, hot meal that can be eaten on the go or to just sit down and enjoy.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I traveled to London right before Christmas. Already a beautiful and brilliant city, the holiday season added a special flare to the city as there were Christmas fairs in the parks and along the Thames and a general relaxed feeling about the city. Edinburgh and Highlands are also definitely worth a visit.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

Sunderland is a very safe city, from my experience. I never felt threatened or unsafe, even when walking back alone from the university to my flat at night. The university provided information on several local doctors. Definitely get signed up with a doctor as soon as possible! You never know what can happen, trust me. However, because of the health care system in the UK, even with a visit to the emergency room and receiving several types of drugs, I didn't have to pay anything.

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? I would recommend investing in buying a 16-25 Railcard when you get to the UK if you intend to do any type of travel. It gives you at least 1/3 off of train tickets and even a discounted price for day passes in the London metro system. It quickly paid itself off and was only about 25 pounds. I easily saved 100 pounds (about $160) on my traveling.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • International Students

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • I liked the affordability of this program, as I only paid a little more than my home institutions costs for everything in general.
* What could be improved?
  • Not much, this was a good experience!
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I would not necessarily recommend Sunderland if you are looking to really get the whole British experience, or if you are looking for an excellent academic learning experience. However, you are looking yo do lots of traveling, this is a good place to be. Being located in northern England, it is easy and quick to catch a train north to Edinburgh or south to London. If you are looking to fly, Newcastle International Airport is about 1 hour by metro where you can take a quick, cheap flight to Paris or Amsterdam.