Unforgettable every step of the way! Past Review
By melanie.matta.5 (Illinois State University) - abroad from 02/04/2013 to 05/17/2013 with
Lorenzo de' Medici – Florence
Stepping out of your comfort zone and not letting anything stop you from doing what you want to do! Taking time to enjoy the little things and not always feeling so rushed and busy as I am back at ISU.
Personal Information
| How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | 1 month - 6 months |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
It was not too difficult but I enjoyed all of the classes very much! |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
They were always very helpful with any aspect or issue that came up when here. |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
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| * Food: |
Loved all the fresh markets in Florence! |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
I was very comfortable here within the first few weeks as if it were my own campus town. |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
Did not experience any healthcare issues. |
| * Safety: |
I was always on very close watch of myself and things, but felt as though it was never too dangerous compared to other cities traveled. |
| 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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| Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? | Shop for fruits and vegetables that are in season and shop at the farther out very large grocery stores because they are cheaper. |
Language
| * Did your program have a foreign language component? | Yes |
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How much did the program encourage you to use the language?
0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language |
Much english was spoken at LdM and Italy. |
| How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? | None |
| How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? | Beginner |
| What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? | None |
| How many hours per day did you use the language? | |
| Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? | Use it at the markets and in stores for practice. |
Other Program Information
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* Where did you live?
Select all that apply |
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* Who did you live with?
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* Who did you take classes with?
Select all that apply |
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| 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? |
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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? | Basic things such as the best points in Florence, places to shop, eat, markets, and how to live in Italy day to day. |
