Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Multi-Country Study Abroad: Phenomenal Opportunity to travel THE WORLD in one semester. Past Review

By (History And Political Science, University of California - Riverside) for

Semester at Sea Study Abroad: Make the World Your Campus

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Learned an enormous amount about the world through sheer EXPERIENCE. In four months I was able to go around the world, and learned an enormous amount about topics that I came home and continued seeking knowledge about. Studying abroad was only the beginning ...

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.

It can be incredibly difficult at times getting used to taking classes while on a ship while having to balance it with time in port. If you're dedicated and focused however it is completely manageable and worth it! One of the most challenging, yet absolutely valuable and phenomenal opportunities you'll ever be given. Having the opportunity to learn about so many countries all in one Semester allowed you to draw large over-arching connections between politics/economies/societies from around the globe! Brings the classroom to life in unimaginable ways.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

Ship becomes a tight-knit community. Unfortunately, on one of my voyages there was a lack of diversity among the faculty that was disappointing. My first voyage however, was a very diverse range of professors--just depends.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Lived on MV Exlorer. Had cabins with 2-4 roommates depending on which deck you purchase.

* Food:

Dining hall that is buffet style.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Lack of diversity on the ship was disappointing. But everyone found their friends and it was a phenomenal opportunity to become really close to people while traveling the world.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

Follow the ship's advice--they offer an enormous amount of information. Don't be afraid in port, just be cautious and wise.

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? None; just be willing to travel light and you will be fine. You'll realize how LITTLE you actually need to get by--and it will be liberating.

Language

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? None

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Other
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

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

Select all that apply

  • Americans

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Going around the globe, meeting such a wide variety of people IN port.
* What could be improved?
  • MORE DIVERSITY ON THE SHIP.
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Don't be afraid of uncomfortable truths. Be open to new ideas. Take off your American lenses and learn from others. Enjoy every moment. Give back to the communities you visit at every chance you get.