Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Invaluable Experience Past Review

By (International Business., Utah State UniversityUtah State University: Asia - Asia Go Global Program Summer ) - abroad from 06/01/2014 to 06/22/2014 with

Utah State University: USU Go Global Asia, Hosted by the Asia Institute

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Traveling is invaluable to educational experience. There is only so much one can learn in a classroom. Traveling through this program opened my eyes to the impact history, culture, and tradition have on the global world in which we live. It has broadened my horizons, lifted cultural barriers, and enriched my learning experience!

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 6 months+

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

It was extremely educational. I wouldn't quite say it was rigorous while we were in Asia, but still very educational. Much of our learning came through interacting with businesses and students, rather than busy work. Insightful, but not too intense-- which I viewed as a great balance.

* 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? 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)

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? Anywhere from $50-$100 depending on the country.

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

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? Intermediate
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Intermediate
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? First Level
How many hours per day did you use the language? 0

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Hotel
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Other
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Other
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with?

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Our living arrangements, business visits, and travel was well orchestrated.
* What could be improved?
  • I can't think of anything at this moment.
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? The best experiences do not come through visiting tourist sights, but rather engaging with the people, going to small hole-in-the-wall restaurants, walking through the markets, and talking to people on public transportation. Dive in! Take it all in. Also, be very aware of your possessions and surroundings at all times, and you will be fine.

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!