Sussex: Fun (And Even Some Sun) in England's Beach Town Past Review

By Hannah M (Film, University of Colorado - Boulder) for

University of Sussex: Brighton - Direct Enrollment & Exchange

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?

More than anything, my time in England allowed me to break out of my comfort zone and experience something new. I have never tried so many new things as I did while abroad. Whether it was learning how to tell how a "true" Sussex blue cheese should taste, participating in a real English pub quiz, or taking the train to a new city every weekend, every moment was a new insight into British culture.

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.	I found the English educational system very different. There is a lot less class time, meaning that the professors expect you to have plenty of time to do the masses of outside work they usually assign
* Host Country Program Administration On-site administration of your program	The International student services at Sussex were excellent. They helped us with getting to know the area really well, as well as helping with course transfers and other issues.
* Housing: How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?	I was, by choice, in one of the cheaper dorms on campus. It was a little run-down, but that was to be expected. All the dorms had their own kitchens and cookware and groceries are available on campus if you so choose (though it is cheaper to go into town).
* Food:	The on-campus cafes are mediocre, but the pubs are pretty fun. All the dorms have kitchens so you mostly eat whatever you cook.
* Social & Cultural Integration: How integrated did you feel with the local culture?	The international student office did a lot of interesting trips that were well worth buying tickets for. The Isle of Wight, Canterbury, Bath& Stonehenge, and London were all offered for less than the price of a one-way train ticket.
* Health Care: How well were health issues addressed during the program?
* Safety:	Brighton is pretty safe, as long as you use common sense.
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)

Direct Enrollment/Exchange

* Did you study abroad through an exchange program or did you directly enroll in the foreign university?	Direct Enrollment

Other Program Information

* Where did you live? Select all that apply	Dorm
* Who did you live with? Select all that apply	Local Students

A Look Back

* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program?	Sussex is a great place to mingle with native Brits and students from all over the world. It has something for everyone! If you are outdoors-y, the South Downs are a magnificent place to explore. If you prefer the city, Brighton is a wonderful place to find street markets, shopping, and an exciting night-life.