Getting to Know India Ignited a Love That I Never Would Have Known Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The students had some difficulties with one professor, as we did not seem to be on the same page in understanding what she expected of us. At times, she found our preparedness inadequate or urged us to spend more time with bookwork, whereas we were seeking out our Indian Education through local people and experiences. Her teaching methods sometimes frustrated us because we perceived her to be inflexible or inconsiderate at times (extending class for long periods of time without notifying us, for example). But all in all, I think she did try to work with us from where we were coming from and we did all gain a lot from her class. We had no problems with other classes or instructors, as all were very flexible and understanding. The workload was manageable and the grading system proved to be fair.

On-site administration of your program

The program size was quite small, only 5 students, but I think we all gained a much more enriching experience that way by being thrust into the culture. I did find that one of the biggest faults with this program is the poor communication at ICMIS at times, both between staff and students and between staff itself. There were a few issues that had arisen based on a lack of clear communication. Although we never doubted that the staff cared about us and wanted to provide us with a good experience, they definitely need to work on organization.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

We were in a good location and the apartment was well adequate. I had no problems with our set up. We felt very safe and were strategically and conveniently located. We did need to purchase some items: sheets, pillows, cookware and eating utensils. However, we were told before leaving for the trip that we were advised to bring our own sheets or else we would need to buy them.

One of my classmates has celiacs disease and could not eat any wheat. The food service provider was told this, and always provided something separate for her, but it was almost always the same thing, and sometimes would be only white rice (for example, when the rest of us got pasta). Near to the end of the program, when we got tired of some of the delivered food (it often was the same thing repeatedly) we would go to places like Beijing Bites, which is an Indian chain restaurant that is very inexpensive and offers a big variety on the menu. Although I never had any stomach problems, all of the other participants at some point got sick from the very different diet.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Arranged trips included a visit to a coffee plantation and a homestay as well as a field trip to a renown religious monument. Both were great experiences. By request, a trip to Goa was also arranged, as well as a short trip to the Golden Triangle (Delhi, Jaipur, Agra). These two trips were some of the highlights of my experience and some of the best memories.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Relatively safe environment, but the school officials had our health and safety as a top priority. We were advised in great detail how to stay safe and what to do in emergency or risky situations.

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

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• Apartment

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• Americans

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• Americans

• The cultural offering
• The skills and knowledge I left with
• The caring staff at ICMIS

• Communication at ICMIS
• Over preparation for anticipating students