Unbelievably Incredible: Shanghai, China through The Education Abroad Network Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Fudan University had a unique way of teaching, in my opinion. A lot of work was intended to be independent and out of class. There were many group projects and opportunities to go out and explore the city for particular assignments- which was quite enjoyable. The Professors were always there to meet with you if you had questions or concerns about the course material or what was expected. Also, it was really interesting hearing their point of views, from a Chinese perspective, on global issues. Overall, Fudan University was phenomenal and definitely a great place to study for the semester.

On-site administration of your program

The Education Abroad Network did a FABULOUS job with pre-departure information all the way to the end of the semester and pre-arrival back in our home country. The program definitely exceeded all of my expectations and I had an amazing time abroad. The size of the program was approximately 23 students- which was perfect in my opinion. The program coordinators were extremely knowledgeable and always there when I had particular questions, comments, or concerns. I honestly have no complaints or particular weaknesses I would like to mention. The Education Abroad Network provided me with an out-of-this-world experience of a lifetime.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

My housing was in a beautifully, newly furnished apartment, 5 minutes from Fudan University in an enclosed securely gated complex. Since my apartment, in particular, was just renovated and painted, many small items were missing for the first week. However, the Education Abroad Network did a great job keeping on top of it and adding in the necessities as soon as they could. As well as living with fellow Americans, we had a local Fudan student, or Chinese buddy, living with us. Kathleen was extremely kind and definitely helped me out a lot- especially with booking flights and trips to other provinces in China. I felt extremely safe in our complex and had no particular issues with anyone. Our apartment was in close proximity to the Wal-Mart, University, and Line 10 metro stop- which was very convenient. Overall, the housing situation was great.

Definitely try out the local street foods in Shanghai! Do not bother with the cafeteria. If you want to fully immerse yourself in the Chinese culture, you must eat from the vendors that come out at night and make some of the most delicious types of foods- from dumplings, to fried rice and noodles- I have ever tasted. The food overall in China was phenomenal and definitely does not compare to the americanized version of Chinese food!

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

INNER MONGOLIA! One of the most amazing experiences in China by far. We spent several days in the inner mongolian desert, sleeping in yurts, riding camels, eating on top of sand dunes, going sand sliding and star-gazing, dancing around a large camp fire and racing dune buggies at the lake area. It was incredible and definitely an amazing trip TEAN (the education abroad network) planned for us. TEAN also hosted several get togethers- such as lunches or dinners with our coordinators within Shanghai, which was also very memorable.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I definitely felt very safe throughout my time in China. Luckily, there were no particular health or safety related incidents in my program. However, I do advise everyone to be careful when crossing the street or riding bikes in the streets of Shanghai (and China in general). There is no concept of "right of way". Overall though, it is safe and I felt very comfortable.

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

I was able to not only practice Chinese in the classroom setting, but also with my peers in the program and definitely Chinese locals in all areas in China. I definitely needed to use Chinese to get by in most circumstances and not a lot of individuals spoke English. This is great because it forced me to assimilate into the culture and interact with Chinese locals.

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• Apartment

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• Americans
• Local Students