Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

London is calling Past Review

By (Queen Mary University of London) - abroad from 09/13/2020 to 06/04/2021 with

Queen Mary University of London Study Abroad programme

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
My exchange year was very enriching, instructive and fascinating, especially, my academic education was very rewarding and gratifying, and I am very grateful that I was offered this unique opportunity. I could develop many skills, such as my independence, my responsibility and my social skills, and I am confident that I will be able to apply these in the future. In addition, I got to know many different people and cultural backgrounds as well as British culture and academic system, which I appreciate a lot. I’m already looking forward to returning to London in a covid-free time.

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)

Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? - Go to a supermarket e.g. Asda or Lidl, which is cheaper than e.g. Sainsbury's. - make a grocery list with what you really need so that you don't randomly (and uncontrollably) buy things when you are in the supermarket

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? Fluent
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? C2
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? - speak with your friends, flat mates etc. - participate in the seminars at uni - read books, watch tv, etc.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • 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?
  • my modules at uni
  • exploring the city
  • getting to know locals
* What could be improved?
  • accommodation
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? How complicated the planning (flights etc.) of my stay is going to be in the middle of a pandemic.

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!