Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Outstanding program Past Review

By (Rutgers University - New Brunswick) - abroad from 05/17/2019 to 08/27/2019 with

Learn Russian in the EU: Daugavpils, Latvia - Semester Abroad Program in Russian Language, Literature and Culture

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
My Russian listening skills have improved a lot, as well as fluidity.

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.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* Food:

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

This program is without a doubt the best one you could choose if you want a Russian cultural immersion plan with a lot of options in terms of local classes, organized travel, and outstanding professors. All of the teachers and staff at Latinsoft and DU are really at the top of their profession, and each truly care about your education (and that you enjoy your time in the Baltic). I absolutely recommend this program.

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)

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
How much did the program encourage you to use the language?

0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language

The program is entirely in russian, complete immersion

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? Intermediate
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Advanced
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? 204
How many hours per day did you use the language? 10+
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? Try to learn the grammar before going abroad

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with?

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Location
  • Staff
  • Travel
* What could be improved?
  • Nothing, really
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Russian poetry is difficult

Reasons For Studying Abroad

To help future students find programs attended by like-minded individuals, please choose the profile that most closely represents you.
The Academic or Linguist
You went abroad with specific academic goals in mind; the program credentials and rigor of your coursework abroad were very important to you. You had a great time abroad, but never lost sight of your studies and (if applicable) were diligent with your foreign language study. Good for you!