Best semester of my life Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The educational system used by SIT might be somewhat different from what you'll see in your college/university. Instead of having a fixed professor for the seminars, you'll have a speaker for each class session that is an expert on that session's topic, and they range from professors and scholars to politicians. At first this might seem weird or pedagogically incorrect, but it's a very effective system! Also, it might sometimes feel like there's not a lot of academic rigor or not many assignments are being given, but you must consider the intense component of experiential learning that is essential to this program.

On-site administration of your program

The on-site administration for this program is outstanding. They're an amazing group of people that are always looking out for you, making sure everything's going well and that the program is meeting (or exceeding, as was my case) your expectations. I honestly can't wait to go back to Jordan and visit them.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

My host family went above and beyond for me. They were great and really enhanced my experience! Everything was comfortable

If you think you're going to lose weight while in Jordan, I'm sorry! The food is hearty and great, although sometimes there can be a little too much chicken and rice. However, there's nothing that can compare to Jordanian falafel, hummus, kunefe, and shawarma. You're in for a treat!

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I personally felt fairly integrated with Jordanian culture and society. This was partly due to my great interest in the country and its people, so I made an effort to reach out and become integrated. However, it can be easy to keep your social circle closed to Jordanian society because almost or all students in your group will most likely be Americans. There are some instances where SIT itself gives you the chance of interacting with Jordanians, such as an activity visiting the University of Jordan, but that alone is not enough if you want to truly make Jordanian social connections. Take advantage of your host family and go to events and do things with them, they're your most valuable connection with the country.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

There was only one moment in which I had to go to the doctor while in Jordan, and it was due to some pain on my Achilles tendon. The on-site administration was very responsive and took me to a specialist, who promptly sent me to get some x-rays done. After I came back with the results, he indicated some medicines and something to put inside my shoes, and the problem was gone! Everything from the doctor's visit to the x-rays to purchasing the items was super smooth. Besides that, filing the claim with the program's insurance is very easy, and I got the money refunded to my bank account quickly.

I personally felt safe at all times and didn't have any safety-related incidents. Nonetheless, as in any other place, always make sure to go out in groups if it's at night and keep a sharp eye on your surroundings.

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

Stipends provided by SIT are very helpful, but Jordan can be an expensive country so budgeting is essential. Also, if you want to work out throughout the semester, getting a gym membership can be a bit costly.

0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language

Select all that apply

• Host Family

Select all that apply

• Host Family

Select all that apply

• Americans
• International Students

• Excursions
• Social and cultural interactions
• Host family

• Academic rigor

The Outright Urbanite