A memory of a lifetime! Past Review

By (Stephen F. Austin State University) - abroad from 05/12/2018 to 06/03/2018 with

Stephen F. Austin State University (SFA): Mediterranean Influences on the History and Systems in Psychology

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
This experience was worthwhile. I was able to learn and see the history of a country that I learned about in my textbooks. The culture was so rich and I just loved every second of being in Italy.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 0-2 weeks

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

100% enjoyed the cultural and historic aspect of the country and towns I was learning about. However, I wish the class was a little more organized.

* 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 am in love with the culture, people, and countries that I was able to visit. It was amazing to broaden my horizons with the experience of new cultures.

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)

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $200
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? I would suggest buying food from the grocery store and cooking in your apartments, because this is a cheaper method to eating out and you can save your money for souvenirs.

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? spanish 3
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? I would use the app duolingo to practice the language of the country you are preparing for so you can understand the language and culture that you will be surrounded in.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
* 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?
  • Culture
  • History
  • Language
* What could be improved?
  • Language preperation
  • course requirements
  • none
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? To appreciate every second of the trip and to better understand how to spend my money.

Reasons For Studying Abroad

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The Outright Urbanite
A social butterfly, you're happiest in bustling cities with hip people, and took advantage of all it had to offer. You enjoyed the nightlife, and had fun going out dancing, and socializing with friends. Fun-loving and dressed to the nines, you enjoyed discovering new restaurants, shops, cafes, and bars in your host country.