Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

An experience of a lifetime. Past Review

By (Kinesiology, San Jose State University) - abroad from 09/17/2011 to 05/28/2012 with

University of Hertfordshire: Hatfield - Direct Enrollment & Exchange

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned and gained more positive insights and experiences than I ever could have imagined. It was more than worthwhile. It should be a necessary part of all student's education.

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.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The administration at UH was sometimes lacking. It often took multiple days for them to respond to emails. Also, it was hard to get in contact with the right person. People wouldn't know who I was supposed to talk to about certain topics.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

My accommodation was great! I had a splendid time there.

* Food:

I did not often eat at on-campus establishments, but when I did it was pretty good.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

UH had a great international student culture. Not only did I get to experience the English culture, but I got to experience French, German, and many other cultures as well.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

There was a nurses office on campus and a hospital nearby if need be. There weren't any vaccines needed especially for this program.

* Safety:

I wouldn't recommend walking alone around Hatfield late at night, especially if you are a female, but other than that it is relatively safe.

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)

I would say about a 4. It was pretty easy if I budgeted correctly.

* Was housing included in your program cost? No
* Was food included in your program cost? No
Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? I spent about 150-200 dollars a week.
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Always look for good deals when shopping. Stock up on sale items. Research all public transportation options before arriving so that you know all the cheapest options heading into it.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

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

  • Dorm
* 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? 10+

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • I loved meeting people from all over the world.
  • I loved getting a unique experience, learning in another country.
  • I LOVED travelling.
* What could be improved?
  • There could be better explanation of the academic system used in the UK.
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? About budget travelling options. Hostelworld.com, etc.