London Calling... Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The workload was very manageable while abroad. Because the U.S. education system differs so much from the Britain education system, the program professors adapted to our style of learning. We had readings that we discussed in class, papers throughout the semester and one final examine at the end of the semester. The UConn in London program also emphasized we students getting out there and really exploring the city. This ranged from community service once (or twice) a week to walking tours to see museums, historic neighborhoods, and plays. While the tours were sometimes boring we knew they would relate back to an assignment for class. At the time, the economy was spiraling downward and to cut on costs all of our text/book (expect for the Shakespeare class) were photocopied which we greatly appreciated. The class offerings weren't huge: Art history, Poli Science, INTD, English and History. Being a Psychology and HDFS double major was not able to take any of my major classes thus pushing me back a semester. But I was more than willing to take the "hit".

On-site administration of your program

UConn was more than prepared to send its students abroad. Any question we had from visas to converters for your hair straightener were answered. The FSU staff was always polite and helpful. Our professors and program director were highly accessible through email. We had an orientation before we left America and again when we arrived in London, in addition to a packet chock full of information: i.e. nearest hospital, tube stations, contact numbers, what kind of cabs to take, price estimates etc. We were given a walking tour of the neighborhood we were living in and got the 411 on English culture. For example, when using the escalator in the tube (subway) you must stand on the right so that those who chose to run the the escalator can pass you on the left. Our cell phone, transportation within London were included in our tuition. This was immensely helpful because if left on our own we would have surely been lost. I had no clue how their cell phone numbers or transportation system worked.It took almost no time to learn it but, if I hadn't been given such a great tutorial I surely would have struggled.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

We lived in furnished flats owned by Acorn housing that essentially provides housing for travelers. Everything was provided, all we needed to bring were clothes and some small comforts from home. Crawford passage was very close to class (15min) walk and a short tube ride away from nightlife. The Clerkenwell area has some rich history and our favorite kebab spot was just down the block. Our only problem was that we student could get to noisy and disturb the surrounding flats. So, housing management was quick to silence us, as they should. I wish they had provided mattress pads because the beds were stiff as hell, it didn't add to the time difference adjustment/jet lag issue.

Budgens was the closest grocery store to our group of flats. It was much more affordable than Sainsbury's. Eating out is expensive, so learn to cook. Pub food, aside from fish and chips, is terrible. BUT London was very diverse in its people and thus its food. There's a Little Italy and London has great Thai food. My personal food favorite were Lamb Donner Kebabs aka English drunk food. I also noticed that the food had less preservatives. If the bread was dated to go bad on Feb 12 2009, it went bad on that date not three days after. I mean, even the canned food tasted better. This was probably our saving grace since eating healthy would have cost way too much.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I loved going to the Globe Theater for my Shakespeare class. The Jack the Ripper, River Boat Cruise, and Double Decker Bus Tour are a must. I believe all of the museums are free admission. I didn't take advantage of this and I'm still regretting it! The program also arranged trips to Cambridge, Paris, and Belgium which of course we enjoyed.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I always felt very safe while in London. Of course it's a city so its well lit and if you use common sense (i.e. traveling in groups at night, keeping an eye on your stuff at the pub) there usually isn't a problem. The tube was so clean! Much better than the stinky NYC subways. Luckily, I did not fall sick during my time in London but we all had to purchase health insurance to be able to be treated there if anything were to happen.

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

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• Americans