Semester in Israel: IS this even RAEL!? Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The workload at the University of Haifa was definitely manageable for a study abroad experience, demanding time but still allowing fun time to get the most of your abroad experience! There aren't many assignments to hand in, except in language classes; but there are weekly readings, papers (mostly just midterm and final), and exams. They offer great classes and seminars that cater to the specialties of their faculty so students get the best education possible.

On-site administration of your program

The administration at the University of Haifa International School was EXTREMELY helpful with everything. They were always available and willing to help. Even if it was out of their "area of expertise," they would do their best or refer you to the right person to talk to.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The dormitories at the University of Haifa are very nice. I lived in a 6 bedroom, 6 bathroom apartment with a shared kitchen and common space. The area is very safe, as there are security guards at the entrances to the university itself and to the dormitory area as well. The dorms were only about 5 minutes (walking) away from classes, which was perfect for rolling out of bed right before! While there is some nightlife on campus provided by the International School and the University's student union, students would need to take a bus or taxi (about 10-20 minutes, depending on where one goes) to enjoy off-campus nightlife.

Israeli food is AMAZING! There is a mini-market right next to the dormitories in case students don't feel like taking a bus/taxi to a supermarket in town. There are also many yummy places to eat on campus if you want to grab a bite in between classes! If you want to head into town, the places to go would be either "Horev" or "Carmel Center." For late-night eating, Carmel Center has more options!

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

The University of Haifa International school offers many field trips around Israel, including trips to Jerusalem and the Negev Desert. My favorite part was what we called "POW Week" during the month-long "Study Tour Program" before the semester started. We went to Jerusalem and visited the Western Wall as well as other significant sites in the area. Then we continued south, where rode camels and stayed overnight in Bedouin (desert nomads) tents! We awoke early in the morning to climb Masada in time to watch the sunrise and then went to swim in Ein Gedi springs and to float in the Dead Sea! I've never enjoyed more beautiful sites!

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Haifa is a diverse city, where Jews, Muslims, and Christians live together peacefully. As I mentioned before, there are security guards at all of the entrances to the university and to the dormitories' area. Health insurance is required through the program, and a representative comes to explain the plan and answer questions during orientation. The University of Haifa International School office will also schedule appointments for any students to meet any health needs. No vaccinations were necessary for the program.

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

Everyone spoke English because the program is English based and, other than the language courses, everything is taught in English. The best way to improve language skills will go beyond the courses themselves. Of course, practice with classmates outside of class. Also, when you go out to restaurants or supermarkets, try to order or speak to the cashier in that language. When you meet people from the country, try to utilize as much as you know as much as possible. It was definitely possible to get by every day with only speaking English, but that won't help you improve the language.

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• Dorm

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• International Students
• Americans

• Experiencing Israel
• Internship Program

• Assuring that international students live with Israelis to be fully integrated
• The new Psychology Honors Program is still growing/improving