Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

From the Other Side of the World Past Review

By (Syracuse University) - abroad from 08/24/2019 to 12/14/2019 with

Syracuse University: Strasbourg - Syracuse University in Strasbourg

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned how much variation in society and culture there is in the world. Furthermore, I learned the importance of experiencing it, along with the importance of international cooperation and unity.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? None

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

* 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?

I had no experience with healthcare.

* Safety:

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

This program truly was the most amazing experience of my life. I was exposed to a new culture and city, met my closest friends and found my passion in terms of academics.

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? 200
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Be aware of how much you are spending.

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? Do not be afraid to use it!

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
  • Host Family
* 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? 0

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • The wonderful people I met
  • The beautiful city I explored
  • Learning French
* What could be improved?
  • Budget planning help
  • Outreach to main campus
  • Explanation of class crossing for the next semester
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I wish I knew that a set plan for my budget would really help me in the long run.

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 Academic or Linguist
You went abroad with specific academic goals in mind; the program credentials and rigor of your coursework abroad were very important to you. You had a great time abroad, but never lost sight of your studies and (if applicable) were diligent with your foreign language study. Good for you!