China! Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

On-site administration of your program

I had no idea what was going to happen while I was in China. I just knew that we were learning Chinese and touring a bunch. I had no idea Dalian would be colder, so I wish I had brought warmer clothes. I was also given an estimated budget sheet about two days before UNI was open to the summer, so I was already in the program before I knew what was to be spent and how much I had to pay for. I didn't know things like the Great Wall and food were already paid for. There was just a severe lack of communication between what was going on and what I was supposed to know. I had no clue what to pack besides "touring clothes". I just wish the program was clearer before I had decided to go and that all things planned were clear to the students. I also have severe allergies, and it seems that none of the chefs or cafeteria cooks knew about this. It's important that vital information such as food allergies or medical conditions are communicated to those who could help (such as food staff). Just felt like I, as well as the other students, were left in the dark most of the time.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

We were very close to class as well as nightlife, which was awesome. Also, all the students were on the same floor so that really helped.

I expressed over and over again to the leader that I had food allergies, and they were my biggest concern of going to China. But when I got to China, our tour guide had no idea of my allergies or that I even had any. Same when we arrived at the school. No one in the cafeteria knew anything of my allergies. It was like I had never told anyone about them at all! I was extremely disappointed that nothing was even attempted to deal with my allergies. I was just lucky that I prepare for the worst and brought nearly a whole suitcase full of food to help me survive.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Golden Pebble Beach visit was awesome! And just going out on the town at night with all of the students from Colombia, Brazil, and Poland. The Cultural Nights were also really fun and helpful in learning about other countries besides China.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I'm a Diabetic, and there was no problem with it in the program. As far as I know, no one was hurt physically. Only the minor illness and stomach pains from adjusting to food. As long as students stick in groups and aren't stupid, they should be good.

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

I could practice with my fellow students who weren't from China as well as the Chinese students. I tried to use it interactions with people in shops and on the street. Most didn't speak English, so I wish we had learned a lot of Chinese earlier rather than later.

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• Hotel

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• International Students
• Americans