Sichuan China, the spice of my college life; Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

It was a fantastic experience. While some of the courses (Mandarin Chinese language courses) some of the workload was a little difficult, but since I was there to learn the language it was all for the best. The teachers were fantastic and friendly, often playing ping pong or badminton with you between classes. The course options were quite broad, giving me a good overall education. The teachers for the most part definitely seem to understand the American educational system, but still perform a few things a little differently, yet not enough to cause any troubles. I couldn't have imagined a better host program.

On-site administration of your program

The program was comfortably small, allowing for things we needed to get done to get done. If we ever encountered any troubles or problems while traveling (in our out of the city) we could contact the people who could help and everything would be solved quite quickly. Those who run the program are locals and know everything you need to know about the local and everything else.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The neighborhood we lived in was one of the nicest in the central city. The apartment was arranged through the program which made it all very easy. It was a beautiful apartment, the nicest I've ever been in. It was only about a 15 minute walk to campus and quite close to one street of bars and in near vicinity to many others. We did need to buy some things, but many things were also left behind by the previous residents.

Best food I've ever tasted. Cheap, delicious, and very close by. There are restaurants on every block. It was hard to find vegetarian options usually, but you can find ways around it.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I can't even begin to list all the wonderful experiences and trips I went on. The only advice I could give is get out there and travel, meet the people, and grasp every opportunity you can.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I was never sick but some of my classmates were and they were treated quickly and quite well. You have your choice between western and eastern medical practices.

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

You could practice the language with absolutely anyone you met, few people outside the university campus spoke much if any English.

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• Apartment
• Hostel

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• Americans
• International Students