Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Not What Was Expected, But Not As Bad As I Thought Past Review

By (International Relations and Affairs., University of the Pacific) - abroad from 10/08/2012 to 03/22/2013 with

USAC England: Reading - Undergraduate Courses

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I gained an ability to be more independent. It was worth it because I was able to learn more about myself and what I want for my life.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 0-2 weeks

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Was not that intense or challenging as there were only a few assignments throughout the year.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* Food:

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? No

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)

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? depending on the week, $150-$200
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? take advantage of transportation passes and don't go out to eat every week, keep easy meals and snacks in your room.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • International Students
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • Americans
  • International Students
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with? 0

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • The campus
* What could be improved?
  • Having the chance to meet other USAC program participants earlier in the year/semester.
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Don't spend so much time worrying about making new friends.

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 Academic or Linguist
You went abroad with specific academic goals in mind; the program credentials and rigor of your coursework abroad were very important to you. You had a great time abroad, but never lost sight of your studies and (if applicable) were diligent with your foreign language study. Good for you!