Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Canada is not the Great White North. Past Review

By (Political Science and Government., Stephen F. Austin State University) for

Stephen F. Austin State University (SFA): Traveling - Explore Canada

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
It was worth the price of admission. I enjoyed all aspects of the trip and if i couldn't enjoys something as much as others did, I sure appreciated the effort. Many of the political aspects of Canada I knew prior to going; however, I was able to meet Canadians, and speak with them. I understand their history, appreciate their culture, and hope the U.S, does not do anything to damage the relationship that we have with them. I also feel that we are Americans should make a greater effort to know more about our culture and the cultures and political structures of other states. The U.S. is so well known, and we do so little toeducate ourselves about others, it is really a shame. I would definately go to Canada again.

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.

I have not received any grades back from the trip, therefore I cannot adequately discuss any grading system. However, I can attest to the work that was required of us. I thought the workload was more than reasonable. We had daily journals, which were simple, and we still have a multimedia project due. The project seemed daunting at first; however, after realizing the numerous topics to choose from as a project theme, it was easy.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

I though everything went smoothly. There was good communication between us all.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Both hotels were well furnished with kitchenettes.

* Food:

I was pleased with all meals.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I really enjoyed all of the museums and other programs we attended. I would share these experiences with anyone and encourage anyone traveling to Canada, or wanting to travel outside of the U.S. to venture to these places.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

We were located in a not so nice location in Montreal; however, I felt safe at all times and did not fear for my safety. For those that do not have experience in urban environments or around poverty and blight, there may be a small amount of shock, but nothing overwhelming.

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

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? The food was expensive by comparison to the U.S.:, however it wasnt unreasonable, and I had enough money to eat well and by several souvenirs. I would suggest bringing C$400, meals are around C$20 for lunch and dinner, breakfast can be less than C$10.
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? None

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? None
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? Spanish 131
Language acquisition improvement?

We could practice with anyone. In Canada, many of the locals are bilingual in both French and English, likewise one professor, and half of the group was bilingual. The other half of us struggled a little and reverted to English mostly, but the experience forced us to learn a small amount of French just as a sign of respect.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Hotel
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • I liked the intercation with the locals and the ability to go into government structures without much compolication.
* What could be improved?
  • The accomidations could be improved upon, the plane rides were a little snug, and the internet in one hotel was not working.