Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

BEST CITY IN THE WORLD (trust me, I've been to a lot!) Past Review

By (International Business., Fairfield University) - abroad from 01/12/2013 to 05/29/2013 with

University of Edinburgh: Edinburgh - Direct Enrollment & Exchange

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Words can't even describe it! It's been the time of my life and I would come back in second. I am seriously looking into living here after graduation.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 2 weeks - 1 month

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

It's a very different learning experience than Fairfield. Classes are all very large lectures with little to no interaction with the lecturers. Essentially one large assignment (essay) and a final exam only. Almost all independent learning.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

I had fairly little interaction with the Office of International Students here, but when I did they were friendly and helpful.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I lived in the 50 Blackfriars Street student residence and I could not have had a better experience!

* Food:

My residence was self-catered so I did my own cooking. Food here is much more expensive than back in the States. I ended up eating out a lot to try new restaurants and see friends, etc.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I can honestly say that I feel like I live in Edinburgh... About 85% there to feeling like a local.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

It's very nice that the NHS covers students studying abroad here. BE SURE TO REGISTER WITH A GP RIGHT AWAY. If you get sick and need to see a doctor there is a number to call, but it can take a VERY long time to get seen. The process is a bit different here, but you very well might end up getting a doctor to do a house call.

* Safety:

I have never felt in the least bit unsafe even walking alone very late at night.

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)

Everything here is expensive... mainly food, as it is what a student would spend the most money on. This has a lot to do with the exchange rate and I saw my costs vary about 20% between some weeks due to fluctuations.

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? About $150 overall, not including when I was travelling
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Get a SnapFax and really use it. Try to negotiate covers at clubs. Shop at Lidl, not Tesco. Ask for a student discount EVERYWHERE.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
  • Hostel
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

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

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • Americans
  • 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?
  • Being treated like an adult
  • So much free time
  • Lots of opportunities to meet great people
* What could be improved?
  • More credit for classes
  • Some activities organizd by Fairfield
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I only had classes on Mondays and Tuesdays and it allowed me a lot of flexibility to travel. I would absolutely encourage trying to arrange a similar schedule. GO TO ISLE SKYE!! Spend at least one night and do it by renting a car and driving if you can, instead of taking a tour. It will change your life!

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.