Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Best experience of my life July 01, 2026

By (International Studies, Covenant College) - abroad from 01/18/2026 to 05/18/2026 with

Middlebury Schools Abroad: Middlebury in Yaoundé

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I can't explain all the ways I changed through this program, but I see the world now with more curiosity and with more empathy. It was humbling to talk to people daily whose lives are objectively more difficult than most americans but who are also the most resilient, fun and kind people I've known. I learned so much about Africa and it's place in the world. I learned about international intervention and how it has hurt the most vulnerable people. I learned about my own ability to adjust to a new culture, language and community. And i did it all alongside a wonderful cohort of strangers who became the very best friends.

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

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? $100
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Cameroon is not very expensive but when you go to the markets, be aware that they will give VERY high prices if you are white or have an american accent. Always always bargain for a price lower than you think and be ready to (at least act) walk away and find another option!

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

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? Advanced
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Fluent
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? Advanced
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? Just create immersive experiences for yourself as much as possible and dont take yourself too seriously—language learning requires a lot of humility and curiosity!

Direct Enrollment/Exchange

* Did you study abroad through an exchange program or did you directly enroll in the foreign university? Direct Enrollment

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • 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?
  • Community
  • Language Immersion
  • The Classes
* What could be improved?
  • Clarity in expectations for classes
  • Internship timelines
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Be curious! Assume the best of people and always be ready to make a friend.

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 Nearly Native or Trail Blazer
Craving the most authentic experience possible, perhaps you lived with a host family or really got in good with the locals. You may have felt confined by your program requirements and group excursions. Instead, you'd have preferred to plan your own trips, even skipping class to conduct your own 'field work.'