Studying in London Past Review
By Johanna A (Art History, Criticism and Conservation., Wellesley College) for
King's College London: London - Direct Enrollment & Exchange
Extremely worthwhile. Every single day that I've been back, I wish I was still in London. It's so important to choose a location that will fit you. For me, London was exactly that. The culture, the city, the food, the architecture, everything about it was such a great fit for me.
Personal Information
How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | 1 month - 6 months |
Review Your Program
* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
My workload was manageable, although concentrated at the end of the semester which was a bit frustrating. Also, all of the assignments were research papers as opposed to shorter assignments. Although the professors were available to answer questions, they were generally more hands-off than professors at Wellesley, and more of the focus was placed on the students' own choices and involvement in the class. (No individual readings, but just a very long list of suggested articles and books to read throughout the course of the semester). |
* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
I really didn't utilize our study abroad office that heavily as I had no major concerns or problems before departure, or while I was abroad. My limited contact was positive. |
* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
My neighborhood was a bit sketchy, so the dorm had a guard 24/7. It was close to the best market in the city, 2 tube stations, grocery stores, and several pubs. |
* Food: |
Because each student is in charge of their own meals, I never heard of anyone having a problem. |
* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
I didn't really have any from the program--all my activities were arranged by myself or by friends I made while I was there. |
* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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* Safety: |
Overall safety was good, although my neighborhood, Borough, South London was a bit dicey at times. (Where my dorm was, not the actual university campus). Just make sure to walk around with someone else at night and stay on the main streets. |
If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? |
Yes
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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) |
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Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? | Probably between 100 and 150 dollars every week. Make sure to have a cell phone, transportation money, and food. I also spent a bit on dorm items, like blankets, plates, cups. |
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? | Just know that you will probably spend more than you plan. |
Language
How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? | None |
Other Program Information
* 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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* Who did you take classes with?
Select all that apply |
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A Look Back
* What did you like most about the program? |
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* What could be improved? |
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* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | An independent, curious, outgoing student is the best suited for direct enrollment. Make sure to enjoy every minute of your experience because it will end before you know it. |