DIS is a very unique program in that it is geared for study abroad students so there is a very important travel component paired with each core course. This really gives students to opportunity to experience other European cultures in a way that is applicable to what that student is studying. Also there is a wide range of courses for pre-med students that are really unique. For instance the medical practice and policy program teaches students about diseases of organ systems which is not something one would really get until medical schools. There is also a lab component during which you learn how to draw blood, do stitches, and take blood pressure. The only downside to the academics of the program is that the teachers are often professionals in the fields they teach so they may not have the best lecturing skills. On the flip side, they bring a lot of first hand experience which is always great.