Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Why did I board the flight home? Past Review

By (University of Pittsburgh - Pittsburgh) - abroad from 03/04/2015 to 03/15/2015 with

University of Pittsburgh: China - INNOVATE, Hosted by the Asia Institute

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned about business, technology, globalization, and Chinese culture. I gained friends and memories that will last a lifetime!

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.

The trip was a great balance between fun and business! We had the opportunity to not only learn about the history and culture of China but also about globalization and technology in the business field.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

I have nothing but great things to say about the administration in China. They weren't just administers, they became our friends. In such a short amount of time, I felt like I got to know each and every one of them.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I don't think I have stayed at a hotel, let alone three consecutive hotels, that were as nice as the ones we stayed at. I was, absolutely, blown away.

* Food:

I gained seven pounds on this trip because of my sheer delight of all of the food we were offered. Every meal was special in its own way. My taste buds were definitely satisfied.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Especially by having the chance to talk and interact with students our age in China, I felt completely succumbed by the local Chinese culture.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

We were completely taken care of. I did not recognize any issues.

* Safety:

We were always looked over and had thorough head counts often throughout the trip.

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)

We didn't have to pay for much at all. Only one or two meals and whatever shopping habits you have.

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

We were not pressured to use the language but encouraged to learn to the best of our abilities. Not knowing the language did not hinder us.

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? Beginner
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? Talk to any one and listen to the people around you.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Hotel
* 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? 10+

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • The people
  • The food
  • The opportunities for knowledge
* What could be improved?
  • I only wish it were longer
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Have whatsapp downloaded so I could easily keep in touch with my new friends from China.

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 Outright Urbanite
A social butterfly, you're happiest in bustling cities with hip people, and took advantage of all it had to offer. You enjoyed the nightlife, and had fun going out dancing, and socializing with friends. Fun-loving and dressed to the nines, you enjoyed discovering new restaurants, shops, cafes, and bars in your host country.