Nazareth was so incredible - Samford SUmmer Past Review

By Aaron C (PHILOSOPHY AND RELIGIOUS STUDIES., Samford University) for

Study Abroad Programs in Israel

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?

It was the trip of a lifetime (hopefully more than once). It was everything I expected and more. We learned so much about archeaology and culture, history and religion, sociology and architecture. I feel much better equipped to understand both Paul and Jesus in their 1st century contexts and now have an extended knowledge of the history of Palestine at large. I met amazing people and built great friendships. It was worth every penny.

Personal Information

The term and year this program took place:	Summer 2009

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.	While we had limited classroom instruction, our field instruction was priceless, and I feel as though I learned more in the field than I ever could in a classroom.
* Host Country Program Administration On-site administration of your program	The dig was lead expertly by Dr. James F. Strange. I have no complaints and think they he did a fantastic job of running a stressful dig season.
* Housing: How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?	We lived in a hotel in Nazareth <br /><br /> the hotel staff were amazing; friendly and helpful. They waited on us hand and foot. I really felt spoiled.
* Food:	Fantastic food. Great home style dining and a good variety of dishes.
* Social & Cultural Integration: How integrated did you feel with the local culture?	The other people on the dig became our family. We bonded strongly and shared all kinds of great experiences. We shared meals and short trips all around Israel.
* Health Care: How well were health issues addressed during the program?
* Safety:	We had quality insurance and Mrs. Strange was on call to transport any medical emergencies to the local doctor.
If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program?	No

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?	An average of $30 per week or thereabouts.
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants?	Most of the money was spent on souveniers and the Jerusalem trip, so budget for that.

Language

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program?	None
Language acquisition improvement?	There was no language component to this course. Granted, you pick up a few words here and there, but without intentional study, you won't learn much.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live? Select all that apply	Other

A Look Back

* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program?	It will really broaden your perspectives. Not only will you better understand the culture of 1st century Palestine, but you'll experience a rich culture full of beautiful people and build wonderful relationships with some fantastic volunteers.

Individual Course Reviews

Course Name/Rating:	Field Methods in Archaeology
Course Department:	RELG 393
Instructor:	Dr. James R. Strange
Instruction Language:	N/A
Comments:	The course is designed as a field school, to introduce you to actual methods in Levantine archaeology from day one. There's very little time in a classroom (typically a one hour lecture in the evening) and the bulk of your time is spent in the field, hands on.
Credit Transfer Issues:	No issues. Credits were from Samford.