Italia. Will never forget. Past Review
By Veronica G (Psychology, Our Lady of the Lake University) for
Italy Study Abroad Reflections: Comprehensive Reviews of Past Programs
My life has been changed. To have been able to see the world in another place was the greatest experience ever. To be immersed in another culture, was eye broadening. My cultural awareness has intensely grown thus made me into a person who is capable of understanding many more perspectives.
Review Photos
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. |
Though more papers were required the courseload was less. Thus, making study abroad student's journey a lot more pleasant. However, the coursework was graded the same and covered about the same amount of material the American educational system would. |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
I cannot complain. The program administration was great, they were always there to help in any way possible. They extended their hand and offered even more help that was probably needed. The administration made me feel very special because the first time I met my advisor she knew my name and never forgot it. It could have been that the program size was smaller then usual ones, but I felt they were very prepared. My expectations were beyond met. |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
The apartment came fully furnished, which was a plus. Space was more than enough for eight girls living together. Safety, I felt ok about that, but it was just probably me knowing that I was in an unfamiliar place. Class was a good distance away, however, nightlife was quite far. It would be about a 35 min walk one way. |
| * Food: |
Quality was always great, same as quantity. Advice of where to dine was always offered. |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
I came with an open mind and the my whole study abroad experience was special and memorable. |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
I did come across any healthcare issues. There was just a warning to be careful about drinking water. |
| 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
| * Did your program have a foreign language component? | Yes |
| Language acquisition improvement? |
Although many people spoke and understood English, I did have to use the host country, Italy, language everyday.I would practice the language with friends as well as people I met, in restaurants, in bars, in museums, etc. |
| If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition? |
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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? | Students who look for assistance throughout the way would benifit from this program because their communication is excellent. If you are looking for a smaller population program this is it, it's not too small it's not huge either. Academics are thier focus and they take this seriously as well. They are looking for the students best interest overall. |
