Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

A second home halfway around the world Past Review

By (Rtf, Journalism, The University of Texas at Austin) - abroad from 01/14/2013 to 05/14/2013 with

Nanyang Technological University: Singapore - Direct Enrollment & Exchange

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Overall, I think I learned to ask questions. Learning about different cultures is fascinating, but talking to the people who live these different cultures every day was one of the best things I will take back with me. The experience was more than worthwhile.

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.

The academic challenge was about equal to my courses at UT. The resources were excellent. Taking classes in the art school, I had access to tons of great equipment and facilities.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The administration system was difficult to navigate, but all the employees were incredibly nice and helpful, especially with registration, which was challenging and very different from UT's.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The dorm I stayed in was quite old and had no A/C, but you couldn't beat the price. Staying on campus was very affordable, and I've heard the older dorms are now getting renovated.

* Food:

All the food in Singapore is excellent. I loved it. Eating in the canteens at school gets old after a while, but there are so many options and so many different canteens that you can always find something you like.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

It was very beneficial for me to make Singaporean friends who were able to take me to some places and show me experiences I wouldn't have had otherwise. I would say the local Singaporean culture is very accessible though!

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I went to the clinic once for bug bites and skin problems and the on-campus clinic was efficient and fast. No complaints!

* Safety:

I always felt safe in Singapore.

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)

Food is cheap, but activities are relatively expensive. Daily items like shampoo and toiletries are also more expensive.

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $80-130
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Eat on campus. If you are a girl and want to go out clubbing, go on Wednesdays. If you plan on traveling, look way ahead of time for airfare - there are lots of good deals.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Direct Enrollment/Exchange

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

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Local 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?
  • The people I met
  • The opportunities to travel
  • Quality of instruction and resources
* What could be improved?
  • Registration
  • Communication with home university while abroad
  • course offerings
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? How much of a challenge registration was going to be and how to navigate NTU's system.

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.