The term that MADE my college years Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The program was academically rigorous in the context of experiential learning, which was new for me. It provided me with new academic rigors that I would have not been exposed to, had I not participated in this program.

On-site administration of your program

The AD and her assistant were fantastic, the nicest people. They worked tirelessly to make sure you had a great academic and personal experience during the program.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

My host family was great. If you get there and something is not clicking with the host family, they will move you without hesitation. They also put beginners in Arabic with a family who speaks english, that really helps the transition and makes it more smooth.

Great food, but be ready to eat! The cuisine is different than the food I ate in America, however equally delicious. If you are worried about not liking the food, there are also grocery stores around and you can supplement with food you make yourself.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

This is on you. There are so many opportunities to explore the culture and city of Amman. You just have to go out, look for activities and be excited to meet new people. Facebook events was a great reference, as we found some of the most fun activities posted on there, from singing yoga to documentary viewings and discussions, cooking lessons, jazz music festivals.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

The AD and program assistant are the ones that deal with health issues, not the host families. They did a good job of taking them seriously.

Just watch out for cars and wear your set belt. Drivers are a bit crazy and side walks are rare and not very sturdy. Drivers are not used to pedestrians so you have to keep that in mind. In terms of cat calling, you have to ignore it. You will mostly just hear a lot of "Welcome to Jordan!" even though it seems nice, it is better to ignore as if you engage with every person it will get draining. You will use uber and taxies for transportation, I felt very safe and traveled with others in the program most of the time. But even as a beginner in Arabic in ubers alone I felt quite safe and had no issues. During the night you want to be in groups.

I had the best time with the best group of instructors and students. Great excursions and I fell in love with Arab culture and the country, I can't wait to go back and visit my host family.

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

It was not too hard to keep under the budget. If you ate out a lot and bought alcoholic beverages the bill would go through the roof and look more like a European study abroad. The stipend that they give you, $100 dollars a week is helpful and covers ubers but you will have to use your own money in addition for sure.

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

They encouraged us to speak in Arabic often witch was really helpful, especially as a beginner.

Select all that apply

• Host Family

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• Host Family

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• Americans

• Excursions
• Guest Lecturers
• Staff

• Structure
• Arabic program, more frequent lessons
• increased stipend for ubers

The Avid Adventurer