Epic London Abroad Experience Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The classes that I enrolled in were part of my major, I also enrolled in elective classes. I truly enjoyed the interaction and smaller group study enviroment. One major difference while taking classes abroad, many projects are team geared (depending on class) or indivdual project assignments. Many times classes will meet at Historical London sites ( History of London) which is great because you are out of the classroom and outside learning about interesting history facts of the country you are experiencing a study abroad education. Some classes will meet only once a week, however the class will meet for 4 to 5 hours. I feel the work load was just right, not too light or to overwhelmed as long as you stay on track of due dates. The tutors or professors are very interest in assisting you and take the time to personally know you during the term you are in their class. They are very hands on and make themselves available. Grading is based on projects and assignments due during the term. Attendance is very important and grading can be dropped or you can be dropped if you miss classes due to a shorter term period.

On-site administration of your program

I truly had a great experience and had no issues or problems. Communication was great, I felt as any issues other students raised were addressed, the housing was great, modern and rooms were spacious and clean, not your typical dorm experience like back home. Woodland is the Unite site I stayed at. The underground system might seem really confusing upon arrival, but after a few days, you will just get it. I love being in a big city enviroment so London is perfect if you are looking for a city feel. Support services were great, as stated before class sizes were small and professors attentive.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Everything was preety close by, or just a tube ride away. I feel safe, but as my parents reminded me before studying abroad, never go out alone to nightclubs or bars and always be aware of your surroundings. I take cabs home if I am by myself, only to be more secure and because tubes stop operating after midnight. One thing that is very common in Europe is unfortunately pick pocketers- many students blackberry phones , wallets or cameras taken right from their purses or pockets, especially in bars or tubes were there are crowds. So you need to wear a money belt towards your front or a cross body purse with it towards your front as I did, to avoid getting pickpocketed.

Food is a bit different- but I am a picky eater, so I learned how to survive on sanndwiches or making pasta and chicken at home. There are plenty of places to eat, but the it is quite expensive (the exchange rate) I did venture out to Starbucks and McDonald's a lot.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

London is a beautiful historial place! I was able to attend the Royal wedding celebration at the park and the day's festivities of Prince William and Kate. It was a memorable moment and I felt lucky to be able to be a part of London History making! There is absolutely so much to see and our Host school AIU had nightly activities every week and trip excursions at least two a term. I was able to fo to Paris, Amsterdamn, Spain, Ibiza, and Rome because travel within Europe is quite affordable. My favorite school trip was of course the Hidden Old Pub Tour and Jack the Ripper Walking Tour. The London Eye is really awesome :)

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Although you have an insurance card paid for abraod travel, you still need to pay out of pocket. You need to keep your receipts for expenses and them submit them for reimbursement. I did get sick twice (cold, bad cough) and I had to see a Doctor, if you do not regrister with a clinic as soon as you get there, then you will need to go to a walk in clinic which can have a long wait time. So get regristered with the closest clinic before you get sick. Your program book will have all the doctors and clinic's listed so it's easy and accessible. I did not need any special vaccines for travel to London, but I would advise getting a full check up before leaving for your host school.

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

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• Dorm

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• International Students
• Americans