Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

A New Family and a New Outlook Past Review

By (University of Redlands) - abroad from 08/21/2016 to 12/03/2016 with

SIT Study Abroad: Peru - Indigenous Peoples and Globalization

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I gained a new appreciation for indigenous people and the struggles they face on a daily basis and learned a lot about myself in a few short months. Completely worthwhile!

Review Photos

SIT Study Abroad: Peru - Indigenous Peoples and Globalization Photo SIT Study Abroad: Peru - Indigenous Peoples and Globalization Photo SIT Study Abroad: Peru - Indigenous Peoples and Globalization Photo

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.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The administration of this program is AMAZING. They really want you to succeed and enjoy yourself throughout your time abroad. They're all very kind and supportive.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The host families are all so sweet in Peru. You'll feel like a part of the family for sure. Make sure to fill out the host family questionnaire honestly to ensure that you get a family that will fulfill what you're looking for

* Food:

I'm a vegetarian and was always able to find something to eat. My host family was very adaptable when cooking me meals and it was still easy to eat typical Peruvian cuisine while still sticking to not eating meat.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

The staff members and host families are very helpful when it comes to health issues in Peru! It's easy to go to the doctor and receive any medical attention you made need. The program wants everyone to be healthy and happy.

* Safety:

The city of Cusco is very safe! Some tips, however: always be aware of your belongings (bags, cameras, etc.), stay with a group when you're going out at night, and try to speak Spanish if and when you can.

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

SIT Peru exceeded my expectations of going abroad. I wish I could go back all the time! I got to go to so many places in the country and was introduced to a lot of ideas.

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)

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

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? Advanced
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Advanced
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? Spanish 400
How many hours per day did you use the language?
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? If you aren't feeling comfortable with the language, practice before going abroad and know that when you're speaking a different language, people will be patient and understanding!

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
  • Apartment
* 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?
  • The people on my program
  • Going to the Amazon
  • Getting to speak Spanish everyday
* What could be improved?
  • The lectures/discussions
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Bring enough malaria medicine in case you decide to return to the Amazon for your ISP!

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!