Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

This experience changed my priorities and worldview. Past Review

By (International Relations, Texas A&M University - College Station) - abroad from 09/11/2015 to 12/19/2015 with

University of Jordan: Amman - Direct Enrollment & Exchange

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
The trip was worthwhile. I taught me a lot about another culture, the problems faced by people in that area of the world, and just how much news were are shielded from as Americans. It definitely changed my perspective of the world and readjusted my priorities once I came home.

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The Director for this program was largely unavailable to students except during excursions. The Assistant Director was much more helpful and always available. She also did most of the planning.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

We were told we would be wishing walking distance of the university. We were a 15-20 minute bus ride away.

* Food:

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I didn't need any health issues addressed while abroad, but some of my friends went to the doctor on campus which made it very accessible. We didn't need vaccines before leaving. The only health issue I can really think of is secondhand smoking; almost everyone in Jordan smokes.

* Safety:

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

The Arabic and Conflict professors were amazing! I'd love to take their classes again. The program also moved to a better university the following semester, which makes it much more appealing.

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? 75 on food (including eating out) and about 25 on entertainment, gifts
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? If you eat out, go to local shops. The more western-looking ones are always more expensive. If you really want something specific and can't find it anywhere, try the Cozmo grocery store.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
How much did the program encourage you to use the language?

0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? Beginner
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Intermediate
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? Intermediate 2
How many hours per day did you use the language?

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with? 0

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • The few friends I made
  • The Arabic and Conflict professors
  • THE EXCURSIONS!
* What could be improved?
  • The Director could be available a lot more.
  • They could explain exactly where our money goes. (We weren't give a price breakdown.)
  • The language partner program could be more organized.
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? It's ok if you don't know the language very well or at all. You will definitely learn as long as you attempt to practice it and attend class!

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 Academic or Linguist
You went abroad with specific academic goals in mind; the program credentials and rigor of your coursework abroad were very important to you. You had a great time abroad, but never lost sight of your studies and (if applicable) were diligent with your foreign language study. Good for you!