Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Unexpectedly Life Changing Past Review

By (Nursing., Loyola University Maryland) - abroad from 09/15/2013 to 06/05/2014 with

Loyola University Maryland: Newcastle upon Tyne -

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
It was not that I was skeptical about going abroad I just didn't feel at 20 years old something like this could truly change my life as much as it did. I learned more about myself then I can put in this one little box. I gained so much indepence, cultural knoweldge, and fiscal responsiblity. I am very close with my family and to see I could stand on my own this far away from them has encouraged and relaxed me about my future as an adult. The lessons you learn aren't always big one though and even the little ones count.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 2 weeks - 1 month

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

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)

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? I budgeted 150$ a week for food, activities, and my phone bill.
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Put a spending limit on your debit card that reset weekly and make sure you keep track of what you spend and pull out. I kept almost like a mock check book and had no problems.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • International Students
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • Americans
  • International Students
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?
  • Classes
  • City
  • Culture
* What could be improved?
  • Housing
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? It sounds silly, but I think it is important to remember the world is still going on while your there. I found myself falling behind in American news and almost thinking that everything back home kinda stopped while I was gone. You will come back and things will be different, but don't let that scare you because you'll also be differnt.

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 Networker
An active student leader, it was important for you to network abroad as well. Once overseas, you sought out student clubs, volunteered with local organizations, or attended community events. You encouraged your friends join you, and often considered how you could reflect your international experiences in a resume.