Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Adventures in Big Sur Past Review

By (Northern Arizona University) - abroad from 07/26/2020 to 08/09/2020 with

Wildlands Studies: The Big Sur Wildlands Project: Preserving California Environments

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I gained a deep appreciation for how all the scientific branches work together. And I also learned that it's important to develop social skills as well, because it's not just about the science, but also teaching others about what you learn.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? None

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

There was a great blend of academic learning through lecture and learning in the field. All the knowledge I learned was applicable during the field studies.

* 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:

This trip took place during covid. Everyone went the extra mile to ensure our personal safety and that of others.

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

Big Sur was not my first choice, but the only choice after the covid-19 outbreak. I was never interested in marine science, but after this trip I learned that there is so much more to coastal regions than just the ocean. We learned about the plants, animals, geology, and human history of the area; as well as the modern politics. I definitely think that I would learn even more if I did it again.

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)

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Other
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
  • Other
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • Americans

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • The curriculum
  • The people
  • The location
* What could be improved?
  • Structure
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I wish I knew not to compare myself to others. I was insecure about having never gone backpacking before, and being looked down on. Everyone is super accommodating and they are always willing to help; so don't be afraid to ask.

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 Avid Adventurer
The wardrobe you packed was better suited for a semester of camping than club hopping. Outdoorsy, you might forgo a crazy night out for an early all-day adventure. You'd rather take in the rich culture of an old town than the metropolis of a modern city, but for you getting off the grid is ideal.