An opportunity to learn, actually Past Review

By (Syracuse University) - abroad from 05/15/2014 to 06/09/2014 with

Study Abroad Programs in South Africa

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I truly learned that the purpose of education is to liberate people, fully and respectfully.

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.

By far one of the most intellectually stimulating experiences of my undergraduate career. I appreciated how the course was centered and based on intersectional teaching, learning, and experiences.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* Food:

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

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

This program really helped me to solidify my love for teaching, learning, and social justice. It was a formative experience for me that I would love to do again.

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? $150
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Group Meals and Buffet Style/Family Style Options

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
How much did the program encourage you to use the language?

0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? None
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Beginner
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? None
How many hours per day did you use the language?
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? Speaking with the students in the classroom and making yourself pick up small mannerisms

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Hotel
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • Americans
  • International Students
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with?

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Teaching
* What could be improved?
  • Advising from Syracuse University
  • Maintaining the Diverse Faculty from SU who were on the trip
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Be open and unafraid, don't worry about everything.

Reasons For Studying Abroad

To help future students find programs attended by like-minded individuals, please choose the profile that most closely represents you.
The Networker
An active student leader, it was important for you to network abroad as well. Once overseas, you sought out student clubs, volunteered with local organizations, or attended community events. You encouraged your friends join you, and often considered how you could reflect your international experiences in a resume.