Abroad in London- 100% worth it! Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The British grading system is different than that of the American. My interiors professor in particular has taken a while to grasp this concept...but overall the professors are accomidating to our difference in grading. It's interesting to learn the different ways of thinking, and doing work from a foriegn perspectative. No only are you learning new ways from the professor, but they are learning new ways of doing things from you. Many classes take you on visits to actually see the things that you are talking about in class. It has been a very hands on experience. Personally for me, being a design student, the work load seems to be no different than at my home college. The studio facilities to do work are a lot less spacious and individualized than what we are use to at school, therefor it's very important to have good time management and find a place that you feel you can focus in.

On-site administration of your program

I learned more about the program once I got to London. I felt that my home college did not give us enought information before leaving, and the funny thing was I recieved all of the information I needed in one meeting upon arrival. All of the staff at the London school are very helpful, and very nice. I have no complaints about my experience in London. My expectations we're met, I had just hoped some things I had been better prepaired for from my home college before ariving.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The flat I lived in was in a great location, very safe, right off of a main road in London. It was only a five minute walk from the tube, and was on the same tube line as the school. It only took me about 15-20 minutes to get to class. My experience with the flat itself was difficult at times. The landlord I had seemed to be quite a nightmare. When things would break (like the internet, heater, drawers, dishwasher, water heater, etc.) it seemed to take him quite a long time to take care of things, and often times he would forget and it would take close to 2-3 weeks to get things fixed. I advise everyone to be careful when choosing a landlord and not to pick a flat in haste, the school will work with you in finding a place to stay.

The quality of the food was excellent. There we're 2 grocery stores on the same block as my apartment, and many many places to eat by the school and home. A great place for lunch during school hours is a sandwich place down the street called Onion, or a Mexican place called Adobo.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Get involved and sign up for school field trips. This trips are very stress free and completely planned out for you. They save you money, and you have transportation to all events provided by the school. They are a great opportunity to explore your surroundings. Don't be afraid to go out and see attractions on your own, if all of your roommates are away traveling for the weekend- go site seeing on your own. British people are all very nice and willing to talk to you and help you if you are lost or just strik up a conversation with you.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Very safe- just make sure you are concious of your surroundings. Being in a city things like pick-pocketing can be an issue. You just need to be smart about your belongings. If there was ever a healthcare concern all you need to do is ask someone in the office where you should go and they will refer you to the proper place. I personally did not need to experience any healthcare while abroad besides minor cold medicine. The people that work in Boots are very willing to suggest what medications to take when you are sick. From hear say the Emergency room is free of charge for any visits- it just may take a while to get to see someone. And many of the special doctors tend to only charge a visit fee which can be around £50-£70.

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

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