Amazing field research experience in the African savanna! Past Review

By (Tulane University) - abroad from 01/27/2012 to 05/04/2012 with

Organization for Tropical Studies (OTS): South Africa - African Ecology and Conservation

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned how to write a good scientific paper. It was definitely worthwhile.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 6 months+

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The field study portion of this program is amazing. I learned so much about research and writing scientific paper. If you are considering a career in research this is a must.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

A little disorganized, but very nice and awesome staff.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The housing changed a lot but it was nice because you got to know different people at each place.

* Food:

Food was amazing. The chefs are awesome and definitely can cheer up your day.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

The homestay portion of the program is one of the best things you will do. However, other than HaMakuya we were kinda removed from everything.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Very well. I got a bad sinus infection on the program and it was taken care of right away.

* Safety:

Cape Town is always a little sketchy but I never felt unsafe.

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)

Everything was paid for except your days off and Cape Town break.

* Was housing included in your program cost? Yes
* Was food included in your program cost? Yes
Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $5, if that
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Save all your money for the Cape Town break.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Other
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

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

Select all that apply

  • Americans
  • International Students
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with? 10+

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Were able to research anything you wanted.
  • Worked out in the field with the animals.
  • Made amazing friends.
* What could be improved?
  • The program needs to become more organized.
  • Professors need to communicate better.
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Bring more outdoor clothing.