I <3 Shanghai Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The classes we took were classes for international students and so we had a mix of really great international instructors as well. The workload was reasonable and allowed enough leeway to explore the city. The grading was fair, and the teaching methods were comparable to those back at my home university. Some classes were actually more engaging, in fact. Our mandarin class was great because it was so small (6 people) and the class was tailored to our needs. The only downside was that the students in my program sometimes felt it was hard to communicate over the administrative details when it came to academics, because we were told multiple times that we were not registered for the course even though we were told that we were, so it was confusing at times.

On-site administration of your program

TEAN was a great program, and I feel lucky that I did my program through TEAN. TEAN staff was always accessible and willing to help, and they definitely prepped us well to experience the new culture and surroundings. Our program size was cozy with just 15 people, and it was easy to become friends with each other and feel a close network in a foreign country. My expectations were met, and exceeded-

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Our apartment was absolutely beautiful and in a safe neighborhood, just a 15 minute walk from campus. TEAN took care of all the housing details, and it was fully furnished. There was a Wal-Mart nearby from which we bought other necessities. Cookware was provided and so were sheets. We all lived with kids in our program and one local Chinese roommate in each apartment, which was really a great component of our housing experience.

We were pretty much on our own for food, but the food choices around our housing were delicious and convenient and cheap! so many choices, don't be afraid of trying new foods! you'll miss out!

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I LOVED Shanghai. Shanghai is such an exciting place, and it was so cool to be there during the Expo as well. The Lantern Festival was a good cultural event, and our trip to Inner Mongolia trip was fantastic as well- I thought it was awesome that TEAN chose Inner Mongolia to do the trip over the typical trips that come to mind when we think China.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

No problems with health and safety. Shanghai is a really safe city, and just general common sense is needed as a foreigner in a foreign country. No health issues, some colds that I could get medicine for at the pharmacy easily.

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

I could practice language with my Chinese roommate and the Chinese locals I met in my everyday interactions. I definitely needed to use the language everyday. It was a lot of fun to use the language in everyday activities, and I would encourage others to not be scared and just practice with the locals.

Select all that apply

• Apartment

Select all that apply

• Other