Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Socially and politically aware of the division yet beauty of Mexico. Past Review

By (The University of Texas at Austin) - abroad from 01/05/2016 to 05/13/2016 with

Universidad Iberoamericana / IBERO: Mexico City - Direct Enrollment & Exchange

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I think that the experience was worthwhile, and I wish I could go back.

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

They were extremely kind and willing to help out at any time. On that note, it is preferable to meet them in person than through emails or texting because it takes longer to get a response.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I lived with my Godfather, so living arrangements from the University does not really apply to me.

* Food:

The food was delicious on-campus, although it was a little expensive. On the other hand, the university is surrounded by various restaurants and cafes for more menu options. Just one thing to prepare for, the Montezuma curse - getting used to the food may result in some belly aches in the first weeks.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Orientation was super important because through it I got to meet my closest friends.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

The university has a small medical station where you can be treated.

* Safety:

The university campus is outlined by fences and security guards. Furthermore, entrance to the university requires a special identification from the students.

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

I think I did not get to see as many places because I took 5 classes and tied myself to the classroom. Plus, there were some programs I wished I could have participated in as well.

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)

Compared with the U.S. the expenses in Mexico were much cheaper, but it accumulates rapidly. Not to mention that the value of the peso would drop and increase at various points in the semester making things cheaper or more expensive as it went.

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? On avg. $50
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Familiarize yourself with the tourist programs available and how much they cost. Regarding food, try not to eat out everyday because expense pile and it could reduce your budget to hand out. If you are going to hang out with friends also give yourself a budget. Lastly transportation, see which method benefits you best with your schedule bus, metro, uber, or taxi.

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

It was important for me to improve in my Spanish.

How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Fluent
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? last level
How many hours per day did you use the language?
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? Talk and hangout with the natives. You learn the language faster that way.

Direct Enrollment/Exchange

* Did you study abroad through an exchange program or did you directly enroll in the foreign university? Exchange

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Other
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Other
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • 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?
  • Touristic areas
  • Volunteer Programs
  • University Events
* What could be improved?
  • Bus System
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I would like to know that the difference in transportation systems compared to the United States.

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 Networker
An active student leader, it was important for you to network abroad as well. Once overseas, you sought out student clubs, volunteered with local organizations, or attended community events. You encouraged your friends join you, and often considered how you could reflect your international experiences in a resume.