Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

It changed my perspective of the world in the best way possible. Past Review

By (Utah Valley University) - abroad from 05/07/2012 to 06/04/2012 with

Utah Valley University: Traveling - Art History & Photography

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I gained a different perspective. I learned so much about myself and the world. I learned about culture and art and history. I learned to be grateful for what I have. I learned that I am small piece in a big world. I fell very culturally enriched. It was worthwhile. It was one of the best things I have ever done. Everyone should go on a study abroad experience. It will change your 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.

I learned a lot during my time abroad. The courses were challenging and exciting. Both of my professors were passionate about what they were teaching. As of resources, they both made it known that they were willing to help in anyway they could. Great professors. Courtney Davis, and John Rees were incredible. They both complimented each other. I learned so much from both of them.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Housing was great. I loved the flat we stayed at in London.

* Food:

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

The first couple days I felt very much like a tourist. But after that I really got the feel of London. I felt I really blended in. London is where I felt the most integrated. In Paris not as much. And even less in Barcelona. Mainly because we stayed in Barcelona only for a few days.

* 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)

It was the hardest in London. Because the pound to the dollar is so horrible. But we were able to live pretty well on a student's budget. It was much better in Paris and Barcelona.

* Was housing included in your program cost? Yes
* Was food included in your program cost? No
Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? About 150-200 dollars
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Budget out your days. Limit yourself to spending X amount of money per day. Once you have spent it, its gone. Ifyou are living in a more permanent place with a kitchen, buy groceries. Saves so much money. If you want to save money on gifts, go to markets. And bargain. You can get better deals than at stores.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
  • Hotel
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with? 10+

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • The professors
  • My fellow peers
  • The topics I was studying and the location.
* What could be improved?
  • Covering more food expenses.
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? How to budget money. How too pack for Europe and the weather.

Individual Course Reviews

Course Name/Rating:

Course Department: Art History
Instructor: Courtney Davis
Instruction Language: English
Comments: It was challenging and very engaging. Yes we took full advantage of being in London, Paris, and Barcelona. We went to museums, historical monuments, and really soaked it all in. Professor Davis is very knowledgeable. She is so passionate and intelligent in Art History. Everywhere we went she could tell you something about the art. In class, she made us all want to know more. She is really great. I loved havig her as a teacher. Always prepared. Over prepared. She could talk about art history for hours. I participated in class more often than I would at home, because our class was small and inviting. It was a good environment.
Credit Transfer Issues:
Course Name/Rating:

Special Topics
Course Department: Photography
Instructor: John Rees
Instruction Language: English
Comments: Yes. I didn't have very much experience in photography, but Professor Rees was very willing to help me learn and improve. I never felt stupid. His comments were sincere and helpful. When we were in London, we were able to sit and meet with Ghetti images, which was very cool. And our classes were filled with discussion ways to enhance our photography. Professor Rees is very qualified. He has so much experience. It was a priviledge to have him as a teacher. He taught me so much and I never felt belittled by him. He took the time to meet with us and go over our photos. He gave us good feedback and would help us brainstorm for our projects. Great teacher. Yes I participated more than I usually would.
Credit Transfer Issues: