Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

The Varsity Player at the Varsity Matches June 20, 2024

By (Biology, Wellesley College) - abroad from 09/05/2023 to 06/17/2024 with

WISC: Oxford - Visiting Student program at Oxford University

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I really solidified my writing skills and I would say I got out of my comfort zone in terms of meeting new people and integrating apart of a new experience. I also joined a lab to work on my scientific research skills, and really enjoyed the experience as well.

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.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

I think they could have been more organized, it felt as though there was not enough explanation about the academic format.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* Food:

The food at college was inaccesible due to the location of our dorm, I cooked for myself.

* 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

I would say the best part of my experience was playing in the varsity matches and playing field hockey to interact with the other Oxford Students. I truly felt integrated apart of the experience and felt apart of a new team.

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? Roughly 65 dollars
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Cooking for yourself is very helpful compared to going out

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
  • Americans
* 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?
  • The friends I made
  • The academic structure
  • The extracurriculars
* What could be improved?
  • Rent Cost for Visiting Students
  • Food Accesibility
  • More events within the college
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I wish I knew how the academic structure would be in terms of the amount of writing.

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 Networker
An active student leader, it was important for you to network abroad as well. Once overseas, you sought out student clubs, volunteered with local organizations, or attended community events. You encouraged your friends join you, and often considered how you could reflect your international experiences in a resume.