Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Nothing I expected, in the best way possible. Past Review

By (PSYCHOLOGY., Fordham University) - abroad from 01/09/2012 to 05/11/2012 with

The Beijing Center: Semester and Full Year Abroad

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
So much. Amongst many other things, I gained a greater appreciation for difference of people and culture, and of the openness of myself and others. Also, a greater appreciation for language. My experiences abroad in China were definitely worthwhile and if I could, I would definitely do it again.

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?

* Safety:

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

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)

* Was housing included in your program cost? Yes
* Was food included in your program cost? No
Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $25-30

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? Beginner
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Intermediate
How many hours per day did you use the language?

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
  • International Students
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?
  • The group of students that TBC attracted.
  • The two program excursions during the semester...really integrate the culture and people into your experiences in China.
  • The amount of Chinese culture and immersion experienced by and through the TBC program.
* What could be improved?
  • Greater ability to travel
  • Available internet/connection in lounges
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? That the weather is cold (if not colder) than New York in the winter.