Past Review
By Lauren A (PSYCHOLOGY., SUNY - Binghamton) for
SUNY Binghamton: London - Semester in London
My experience was definitely worthwhile and I recommend that any who has the opportunity to study abroad to do it. I have gained a new sense of what it means to be independent. I also had the opportunity to step outside of the sheltered life I live here in America and was able to experience many different cultures. I think the biggest thing that I have gained from studying abroad is the understanding that we all need to be more understanding of the different cultures. If there was one thing I would change about my experience it would be to meet more locals and so I suggest that any student that goes abroad not to hold back when it comes to meeting new people it can totally change your experience.
Personal Information
| How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | 0-2 weeks |
| The term and year this program took place: | Spring 2010 |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
Teaching methods varied in order to enhance and utilize London as a tool of learning and experience. |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
Everything was well organized and well though out. I would have liked to be a part of a larger program just for the reason of having the opportunity to meet more people. Along with that I think it would be beneficial to find opportunities to work and/or meet the other students in the building. |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
Housing was primarily satisfactory but there were certain aspects that could be changed. We were without heat for quite a long length of time and we were lacking enough plates, glasses, etc for the amount of people living in the apartment. <br /><br /> It was a very safe and beautiful area, cookware was lacking however. |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
Program field trips were successful, however I think that the trip to Stratford should have included a stop at Oxford. |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
I never experienced the health care system personally but from what I have heard its very beneficial for a student abroad since there is no charge for services. The city was safe as long as we were careful as well, we didn't come across pick pockets or anything of the sort. There were no healthcare issues. |
| If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? |
Yes
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Finances
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* 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) |
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| Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? | I spent aprox. 40 pounds a week on food and probably 30-60 pounds on personal expenses depending on what we were doing that week. Obviously spending increased when traveling. |
| Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? | Be cautious of the exchange rate but don't let it consume you and your willingness to participate in your experience abroad as well as your opportunity to travel. Budgeting is helpful and avoid eating out too often. |
Other Program Information
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* Where did you live?
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* Who did you live with?
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* Who did you take classes with?
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A Look Back
| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | Don't be afraid or intimidated about meeting new people! The program is small and so much of your socializing has to be done on your own accord. |
