What the study abroad office won't tell you... Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

I was aware of the different teaching style in the UK before leaving on my exchange. However, I was not prepared for the lack of help that teachers would provide. Given that WBS is made up of primarily international students and educators, I would have thought that the instructors would be willing to ask questions and get feedback regarding assignments and coursework. However, this was not the case. In three of my four classes, the instructors did not allow you to ask questions outside of seminar, as they felt it would be unfair to other students. The assignment requirements, though clearly stated, were very vague and it was impossible to tell what actually needed to be addressed. Also, the grading scale was very strange and I was not warned about it ahead of time. 70% or better is an A at WBS and 35% or better is passing. What the international education offices/orientation failed to mention is that it is nearly impossible to get a 70 or above. Most students receive C's which range from 50-59%. I felt that i did not receive a very good educational experience due to the lack of assistance on the educators' parts and inability to interpret assessments well.

On-site administration of your program

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Though all of the students from UW-Stout were put on a waiting list for university housing, I was able to receive a place in the Alexander Fleming Hall. My flat was shared with 5 other international students and was very basic. Each student had their own room but stared two bathrooms and a large kitchen. Though I enjoyed the facilities, I felt it was lacking in amenities. Since most of the students in the hall were international, we didn't have any cookware or linens. Everyone was required to purchase said materials and this added to the overall expense and everything had to be thrown out when leaving because its senseless to keep. I would have liked if the hall provided basic linens and cookware so that it saved on expenses. The location of the flat was not close to campus, but was in the AMAZING area of London known as Shoreditch. This area is a night life hot spot for most Londoners and was still very central. The WBS Campus was 5 tube stops and one line change away which led to about a 20 min commute. I really enjoyed my flatmates and the region I was located in.

The program does not supply any money for food or a meal plan on campus. The student is left to cook for him/herself or eat out which can get spendy. I loved the variety of food in London, but to save money I had to buy mediocre food at best.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

The people I met at WBS are truly some of the best people I've ever known. I now have friends from all over the globe! The friendships I made while in London will be forever. I miss them all more now that I'm home than I missed my friends from the US when I was abroad! London is an incredibly diverse city and there is a variety of activities for any culture. I thoroughly enjoyed my time in London.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

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

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• Apartment

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• International Students

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• International Students