Dreaming of London - Study Abroad Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The UK works on a different academic schedule as the US, so I was not actually in the UK for their entire semester. The professors adjusted the course to accomodate my schedule. The classes were very large, most students were British; other international students present. The university is large so there are many courses to choose from. Marketing and PR courses were extremely interesting to take from a British perspective. Professors are present if you need them to be, but they are mostly hands-off. You do need to work hard for your grades, depending on the courses you take.

On-site administration of your program

There was no one present from our program abroad. There were some issues with our housing when we first got there. The US office was able to help us and reimburse us for certain inconveniences.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

We stayed in this awesome student-living building called Nido at Kings Cross (http://www.nidostudentliving.com/home.php). The rooms may be smaller than they appear online. The building packed in students from all different programs from all around the world. Kings cross is a great location in terms of being central and close to public transportation. Otherwise, it's not the most posh spot. We were the first people to occupy the space, and the building was not yet complete when we moved in. I'm sure by this point, everything is up and running the way it should be. The building has great security, laundry, mailboxes, gym and fun organized gatherings for students.

Food was not supplied by the program. But we each got a refrigeration cubby and regular pantry cubby in the kitchen at Nido.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

There is a theatre class organized for the american students on the SUNY Cortland-- take this. Each week you get to see one play, discuss and review it with your peers. It was awesome to get to understand the performance culture in London. The living arrangement gave you a great opportunity to get to meet people from all over the world. There are not many organized trips or activities, so make what you want out of the trip. Go out and meet people, get integrated into their culture. You have the freedom to travel every weekend, if you'd like. Make sure to visit castles--but pass up any adventures to vineyards, the UK does not make good wine.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I was sick on the trip and I just had to make a doctors appointment on my own. This worked out fine.

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

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• Dorm

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• International Students