Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Building courage and character on the other side. Past Review

By (Psychology, Oklahoma State University - Stillwater) - abroad from 08/17/2015 to 12/05/2015 with

Peruvian University of Applied Sciences: Lima - Direct Enrollment & Exchange

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
It was truly a worthwhile experience. I would do it all over again, but for a different purpose aside from studies. It encouraged me to continue to learn beyond the classroom, to approach my studies in a different manner. My experience abroad taught me how to approach obstacles and to do it with all the courage possible, to persevere. Ultimately, I gained the best, sweetest of friends, a new home, and a bigger heart for people.

Review Photos

Peruvian University of Applied Sciences: Lima - Direct Enrollment & Exchange Photo Peruvian University of Applied Sciences: Lima - Direct Enrollment & Exchange Photo Peruvian University of Applied Sciences: Lima - Direct Enrollment & Exchange Photo Peruvian University of Applied Sciences: Lima - Direct Enrollment & Exchange Photo

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?

I was absolutely satisfied with my housing, with its location and the host family. I would have loved to live with another student, however.

* Food:

The food was delicious. They serve a lot of rice the majority of the time.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Other than the usual cold, my health was good.

* Safety:

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? No

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? Approximately $150 per week.
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? At the beginning, buy what you absolutely need. Be aware of the exchange rate for meals and meals that you can buy for cheap.

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 Converation
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? Only stop to use your native language when you need to, not when you want to. Get out and find opportunities or friends to practice the new language. Continue to practice it as often as you can.

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

  • 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
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?
  • The culture
  • The people
  • The experience
* What could be improved?
  • Certain resources
  • Accomodations
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I only wish that I would've known how to brace myself for the challenge.

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.