Brussels: A Learning Experience I Would Do Again! Past Review

By Kelsey A (International and Cultural Studies, University of Tampa) for

Vesalius College: Brussels - Direct Enrollment & Exchange

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?

Absolutely! Studying abroad gave me more confidence in my abilities to navigate around a strange city. I was exposed to new types of food and ways of thinking that have made me a better, more rounded person. I now feel more comfortable about being able to travel in the future.

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.	Definitely one of my hardest college semesters due to my increased course load (classes at Vesalius were only 3 credits, so I had to take 5 classes instead of the usual 4 in order to be considered a full-time student at my university. Much more is expected of you, but the grading system was fair.
* Host Country Program Administration On-site administration of your program	Our program size was perfect--not too big, but small enough to form a close-knit community. Our resident director treated us like her kids, and I felt very at home with the ISA family.
* Housing: How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?
* Food:	My host family was unsure of how to provide proper nutrition for vegetarians, and were not especially willing to change. Belgium in general has great cuisine though!
* Social & Cultural Integration: How integrated did you feel with the local culture?	ISA-arranged excursions were some of the best times I had in Belgium! And the waffle-making workshops should NOT be missed.
* Health Care: How well were health issues addressed during the program?
* Safety:	I had no safety concerns whatsoever in Brussels. Being smart and aware is always a must in any city, but overall I was only never put in situations that made me feel unsafe.
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)