Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Could be better Past Review

By (Middlebury College) - abroad from 07/17/2018 to 11/16/2018 with

Middlebury Schools Abroad: Middlebury in Delhi

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned to be independent in a whole knew way. I was able to learn about the importance of self care. I also learned how to accept differences and try knew things. Academically, I don't think I grew too much.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 0-2 weeks

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

It was hard for me to understand the education system that existed in India. A lot of is memorizing facts in order to pass an exam that as international students we did not have to take.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

Some of the administration was there to sign papers but for the most part they all cared about us. The most helpful person was a student mentor who really helped in creating our schedule.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

We had our own apartment. It was great to go back and relax after a hectic day.

* Food:

Food in India is amazing, even if you can get sick. The college canteen is very cheap, I recommend the samosas and chole bhature.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I think it was very difficult to make friends in college because of the hours that are put into Hindi. Either I was too busy in Zabaan or college friends were too busy with their work. (Keep in mind these girls are at college from 8am-4pm)

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I didn't really have to deal with anything too major but the two times I went to the clinic they gave me the medication necessary.

* Safety:

As a woman in India you do have to be aware of your surroundings but since the apartment was in South Delhi it was relatively safe.

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

I think the location was ideal, it gave us the space to immerse ourselves. I would've wished to have more time.

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

It was encouraged in class but it wasn't necessary for day to day interactions.

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? Meet local students who can help with your Hindi. I was able to study for my final by having my friend speak to me in Hindi.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • International Students
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Local 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?
  • Location
  • Host School
  • Housing
* What could be improved?
  • Support
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Take Hindi slowly. We tried rushing things and while it did give us more free time in the end it wasn't worth it. The beginning is when the students aren't stressed or busy so it is the best time to hang out.

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!

Individual Course Reviews

Course Name/Rating:

Sociology of India I
Course Department: Sociology
Instructor: RK
Instruction Language: English (Some jokes in Hindi)
Comments:
Credit Transfer Issues: