Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

It was something that changed my life and I learned so much from it. August 20, 2025

By (International and Global Studies, Brandeis University) - abroad from 06/02/2025 to 07/15/2025 with

SIT Study Abroad: Switzerland - International Studies and Multilateral Diplomacy (Summer)

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
For me, it was worthwhile to go abroad because it gave me the chance to craft my life abroad. I was able to push myself in ways I didn't know were possible and navigate my own life.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 2 weeks - 1 month

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* Food:

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? No

While I excelled as an individual, I wish there were more chances for the students of the program to interact. I do not feel I got close with the students on the program.

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? Beginner
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Intermediate
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? French 20b
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? Don't underestimate yourself.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
  • 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 location
  • The excursions
  • Being able to do independent travel.
* What could be improved?
  • Being more open about expectations before
  • Being less independent focused
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I wish I had been more prepared before I left in terms of academic expectations and more opportunities to meet people before leaving.

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!