Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

An unknown but needed venture into something new! January 01, 2023

By (Biology and Health:Science, Society & Policy, Brandeis University) - abroad from 08/29/2022 to 12/16/2022 with

University of Minnesota: MSID - International Development in Thailand

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned Thai, became somewhat fluent, and learned about the country's traditional and cultural aspects. It was definitely worthwhile because this is something I can never experience at this age again.

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.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* Food:

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

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

I was constantly encouraged to step outside of my comfort zone and supported. Being able to become fully immersed in the culture was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

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? $20
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Make sure to have a concrete budget that you are not willing to go over.

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? None
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? I had tested out of French because it is my native language.
How many hours per day did you use the language?
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? It takes time, do not get frustrated at yourself or compare your progress to another person.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Hotel
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • N/A
* 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?

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Learning about cultural aspects
  • Interacting with other Thai college students
  • Being taken on cool trips
* What could be improved?
  • stipend for internship portion of program
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I wish I had known to go out and explore Thailand earlier and not fear the language barrier.

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.