No personal space, too much tea, and the perfect amount of Love. Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The classes were not difficult. I felt like I had a leg up because I already speak English whereas most of the students from Koc University are learning in their second language. Despite this language gap, I think the classes could've been more difficult. I didn't feel challenged enough. However, every teacher was kind and willing to provide assistance and answer any questions..

On-site administration of your program

The orientation for the program was phenomenal. The assistance after orientation was not so wonderful. There was a situation where I needed the help of a health mentpr. Not only did they say they couldn't go with me multiple times, The one time I had to go to the hospital instead of the on-campus health facilities, The mentor canceled less than an hour before my appointment. There was another situation where some of my friends had to go to the police station because they were sexually harassed by a taxi driver, and Koc's OIP office was not supportive at all. They made my friends feel as though it were their fault. Though I did appreciate the thorough introduction to Turkish culture, continuing support through out the semester was non existent.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

My room and roommates were phenomenal. I couldn't have asked for a better living experience.

I am very used to having a meal plan, so getting acquainted with paying for every meal was a bit difficult. The food on campus isn't too expensive, but it isn't easy to cook in the dorms. There are kitchens but there is only a stove top and a sink (no oven or microwave). I ended up eating out a lot.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I felt very integrated by the end of the semester. I sincerely loved being in Turkey

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I had a terrible rash on my arm, and it was a pain in the ass to get health care,The health mentors canceled not only on me but canceled my actual appointment without telling me. The health center on campus was alright, but like any college campus health facility, they aren't equipped to handle much more than the common cold. I really think Koc could improve this aspect of their study abroad program. It took a really long time to get the help I needed,

Koc's campus is very safe. I never once felt endangered there. For most of the time I was there, Istanbul was about as safe as any city in the world. There are going to be some problems when you have that many people living in one place no matter what the culture. That being said, the last several weeks of my stay were not safe. There were (and still are violent protests in many parts of the city. Another safety concern is the treatment of women. I've found that no matter where you go in turkey, people stare (men and women) just because you look so different. Most harassment can be shrugged off just as it would in the states. My advice is deal with things undramatically and efficiently. Appeal to the harassers better side. If a man won't stop trying to rub against you say "Big brother, I need more space!" If you remind people that you are somebodies daughter or sister, they usually feel to bad to do anything terrible. Never feel like you are being rude if you tell someone to leave you alone. If someone is making you uncomfortable, do something about it - move, say something, push them away, scream. If you ignore things, they just get worse.

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

1.5

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• Dorm

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• Local Students

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• Local Students
• International Students

• The coffee
• The people
• The gym on campus is top notch

• OIP
• Dining services
• More Turkish language practice

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