Study abroad in England Past Review

By (English, Harvard University) for

University of Cambridge, Pembroke College: Cambridge - Direct Enrollment & Exchange

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Yes.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 0-2 weeks

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The classes were modified to fit an American system. There were larger lectures and smaller discussion sections, the were a few assignments through the semester, etc. The main difference I found is the casual relationship between professor and student. It was much more a friend-type relationship, rather than an instructor-student relationship. The Cambridge grading was strange, but they explain it appropriately on the website, and how they translate to American grades. The professors frequently solicited participation, but also offered their own interpretations of the texts we read.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The social programming was at times poorly planned, but otherwise it was a wonderful experience.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

It was perfectly safe at all hours. The tumble dryer did not work in the hostel the university reserved for us.

* Food:

There were ample choices, and several healthy options, but none of the options were particularly tasty.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

It allowed ample time for travel.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

None

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)

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? ~200
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Travel between countries.

Language

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? None

Direct Enrollment/Exchange

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

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
  • Hostel
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
  • International Students
  • Local Students
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Everything
* What could be improved?
  • Nothing
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? It was perfect.