Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

An Unforgettable Semester in Tbilisi, Georgia December 23, 2023

By (Russian Studies, Brandeis University) - abroad from 08/26/2023 to 12/17/2023 with

SRAS: Tbilisi - Identity and Conflict in the Caucasus

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned a lot from my experience abroad. I learned about an entirely new culture, and a different way of life, and got an entirely new perspective on the world. It was absolutely worthwhile.

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

* 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? Yes

I loved everything about the program, and I had an amazing semester. The only thing I wouldn't choose again is my host family, as we never really clicked and often had difficulty communicating.

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? Intermediate
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? 40
How many hours per day did you use the language?

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? 0

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • The other students on the program.
  • The program directors, who were always incredibly helpful.
  • The location!
* What could be improved?
  • The organization of the classes.
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I wish I knew more about the history of Georgia and more about Georgia in general.

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!