Technion/Israel: travel,religion, architecture which exposes past/struggles. Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The Architecture courses at the Technion, excluding studios (from which I could not receive credit from Barnard) were comparable to the rigor of academics at Barnard/Columbia. The library and resources (supplies available in Haifa) were lacking in comparison. I had most difficulty taking classes taught in Hebrew. I was able to take one of my courses in English after speaking with the professor, but the others were difficult for me. I was able to complete the readings and assignments in English, but following along in lecture and seminar was always a challenge. That said, the professors and students at the Technion are very nice, and were always willing to help out. Overall: the courses I ended up taking were great, but would be more rewarding to someone more comfortable with the Hebrew language.

On-site administration of your program

The Technion exchange program is new (I think this was its first year). The office was there for us throughout the semester, however, it would be helpful if they had made the Spring course catalogue available to us prior to the semester. It was a bit nerve wracking to arrive in a foreign country and still not know what courses I would be taking, and which ones I might receive credit for from Barnard. The office was always friendly and accessible. There weren't many introductory social events planned, and I would have enjoyed going on more planned trips within Israel.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I live in a single room in an on-campus apartment with four other Israeli girls. This has been a great experience. I feel like I have learned a lot about Israeli culture just by talking to them and watching them. The apartment itself is ok, but I wish there was air conditioning (June in Israel is very hot!)

There are cafes and dining halls in various places around campus, but to save money, I mostly cook for myself. I've been eating mostly middle eastern food, and my roommates have taught me how to cook some new things.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I feel a little bit removed from the local culture because my Hebrew speaking skills are not good enough to really talk with the locals. I can get by in the supermarket, on the bus, in the mall etc, but when talking with Israeli students at the Technion - they know English far better than I know Hebrew.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I received all the information regarding health insurance etc...

This is a tough one, being in Israel. I have felt safe for the entire time I've been here. The Technion is gated, and one must show an i.d. upon entering the campus. However, living in Israel forces you to adapt to a different mentality...I have heard about many tragedies in Haifa - one bus I take regularly was a site of frequent bombings in 2005 and 2006, and almost all the Israelis I know have personal sob stories about friends or family members that were killed in terrorist attacks. It is part of their lives, and it seems as though 'safety' for them means being prepared to stand up and fight for Israel.

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

I am good about budgeting my money. The biggest challenges were in deciding whether or not to travel outside of Israel, which I did minimally.

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

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• Dorm

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• Local Students

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• Local Students

• Location in Haifa, and in Israel (a small enough country to travel extensively)
• People (the chance to meet both Israelis and International students)
• Google group - all the activities were posted here

• Organization prior to arrival could be better
• Wish there were more activities planned for exchange students
• More exchange students?