Russia: Like nothing I ever imagined or expected. Past Review
By Erin B (Nursing., Illinois State University) for
Study Abroad Programs in Russia
I had never seen a way of life other than what I know from Americans. I am much more aware of how culture can impact one's way of life.
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. |
We didnt take a class abroad, we just toured hospitals, orphanages, and other healthcare facilities. |
|
* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
The Russians we worked with were so wonderful and hospitable. |
|
* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
My Russian host mama made sure I never went hungry. |
| * Food: |
There is always a ton of food for guests. |
|
* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
we took a day trip to Suzdal and it was beautiful! |
|
* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
|
| * Safety: |
I always felt safe. |
| 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? | I spent 200 dollars. |
| Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? | We never had to pay for food. I spent all of my money on souveniors. |
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? | i had never studied Russian before. |
| If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition? |
|
| Language acquisition improvement? |
Most people spoke Russian, but we had a translator most of the time. |
Other Program Information
|
* Where did you live?
Select all that apply |
|
|
* Who did you live with?
Select all that apply |
|
|
* Who did you take classes with?
Select all that apply |
|
A Look Back
| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | If you have a problem with plans changing or cant be flexible dont go! You really need to go with the flow while you are there. |
