Study Abroad in Canterbury Past Review

By (Political Science and Government., Illinois State University) for

University of Canterbury: Christchurch - Direct Enrollment & Exchange

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Definitely worthwhile and I would recommend it to anyone and everyone that has the chance to do it.

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 work style was very similiar to an indepent study which was nice because I set my own schedule and really got in to what ever I was doing.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

My host country program administration was excellent. They very hospitable and helpful. No complaints

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I was very pleased with my housing and the neighborhood was also very pleasing

* Food:

English food definitely taste different than American food, but still had a great taste. Go into the city centre and you can find almost any type of food you can imagine

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I joined the basketball club and it really enhanced my experience

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

Canterbury is one of the safest cities in a very safe country. Coming from America, you will realize that its actually a lot safer in England than the states

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? If you join a social you can easily spend an extra 40-50 pounds a week but on average i Probably spent 50 pounds
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? none

Language

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? None
If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition?

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
* 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?
  • The Destination
  • the prices
  • The people
* What could be improved?
  • Time spent waiting for Transcripts to be received
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Go to whatever country you choose with an open mind. Do not be an American, just be a person