Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Finding Myself Past Review

By (Electrical Engineering, Rutgers University - New Brunswick) - abroad from 01/03/2016 to 01/10/2016 with

The GREEN Program: Iceland - Sustainability and Renewable Energy Abroad

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
This program made me push my limits, both physical and emotional. I learned more about myself from this one week abroad than I ever have before. I made academic and personal accomplishments that I did not previously know to be possible. The things I've learned about myself and about others will stick with me for the rest of my life.

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.

Classes and site visits were very educational and the capstone project really pushed me to my academic limit to create something meaningful using the information I was given.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The administration of my program was run very professionally and smoothly. Those in charge ensured that the trip was truly worthwhile and meaningful.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

All housing accommodations were very warm and welcoming. They promoted healthy relationship building among my peers and provided a great atmosphere for personal and academic growth.

* Food:

All food provided to me was excellent and the administrators took great care to provide to those with special dietary needs.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Having the program led by enthusiastic Icelandic natives ensured that I was well integrated with local culture. Even in the short time that I was there, I learned so much about their culture.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

The administrators take great care to ensure that all activities are both enjoyable and completely safe for each student. I never felt unsure about my safety while on this trip.

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)

Most, if not all expenses are covered by the program cost. Budgeting while on the trip was not a problem.

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $100
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Make sure that you always accept a tax return form from vendors if offered to you. You can very easily receive tax reimbursements at the airport if applicable.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Hostel
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
  • International 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? 10+

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Adventurous Excursions
  • Group Capstone Projects
  • Culture Immersion
* What could be improved?
  • Site visits
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I can do it. I was very nervous about attending this program and even debated whether or not I made a bad choice in enrolling. It is clear now that there was never any need to worry. This program has shown me that I can accomplish things I didn't know I could. I wish I knew not to be so nervous going in. It would have made the beginning of the trip more enjoyable.

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!