Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

A Transformative, Immersive Experience Past Review

By (The Catholic University of America) - abroad from 08/30/0013 to 12/05/0013 with

SIT Study Abroad: Czech Republic - Arts and Social Change

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
The SIT Czech Arts and Social Change Program truly stands out from every other study abroad program I had considered. The small cohort, supportive program staff, and local professors make the academic courses rigorous and culturally enriching. Each course offered an opportunity for both classroom and experiential learning, taking theory out of the classroom and putting it into practice. There is an immense amount of creative support in the students individual interests. The SIT Prague Program really encouraged me to ask questions. As a college student, I felt independent and open to everything. However the program pushed me out of my comfort zone. I realized that college is still quite a controlled environment, and that I shouldn’t be afraid to question everything. My fellow students were amazing, and I still keep in touch with nearly everyone! My host family was also the best I could ask for. I still keep in touch with them as well. If you want a rigorous academic program, with local professors, amazing regional excursions, opportunities to pursue individual interests, and never feeling like an American tourist, this program is for you. I could not recommend it more highly.

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.

I was drawn by the small size of the cohort and that the curriculum was taught by mostly Czech professors. To me, it was also important that each class integrated learning outside of the classroom as well, through visits to NGOs, museums, and excursions throughout the region. The small cohort, supportive program staff, and local professors make the academic courses rigorous and culturally enriching. Each course offered an opportunity for both classroom and experiential learning, taking theory out of the classroom and putting it into practice.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

There is an immense amount of creative support in the students individual interests. Sarah Brock, the program director, strives to establish a close working relationship with each student, and has been an incredible mentor both during the program and beyond.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

To me, the host family was also a big part of why I chose the program. By living with a family, you are able to immerse yourself more deeply into the culture and learn more fully about the culture. I have also kept in touch with my host family and have visited with them multiple times since the program ended.

* Food:

Meat, Cheese, Potatoes...DELICIOUS

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I never felt like a tourist. The academic and extracurricular activities were so incredibly immersive. I felt very connected to both the place and community thanks to the information taught in the classrooms, the experiences in the city and on regional excursions, community building through art-making, and the kindness of the Czech people.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I personally had no issues with healthcare. I found everything I needed to basic needs at local pharmacies and fortunately never had any serious concerns.

* Safety:

I felt incredibly safe in the city, both walking and navigating public transportation. However, it's always important to be aware of your surroundings.

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)

I had no problems at all. SIT helps put your initial tuition payments into a pre-payed budgeted stipend (at least it did when I was there). This was very helpful. Also, the city is not very expensive and there is so much you can do on a student's budget.

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

I used my (basic) language skills every day! With my host family, in restaurants and stores, and I even use it sometimes today!

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

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

  • Americans
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?
  • Regional Excursions
  • Courses
  • People
* What could be improved?
  • nothing!
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I loved everything that came, even as a surprise

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!