Unforgettable Experience in China Past Review

By (Interntional Relations and Chinese Studies, Tufts University) - abroad from 09/10/2012 to 01/11/2013 with

Beijing Normal University: Beijing - Direct Enrollment & Exchange

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
It is truly worthwhile. It was my first time spending months in China, so I experienced real China.

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

English version of this institution is not that well organized. It looks good, but you might find difficulties finding info about classes.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

It's AWESOME! you would not like to leave the school because of this hotel system. Janitorial staffs clean your room everyday and change your blankets and pillow every 10 days.

* Food:

you need to study Chinese foods before going, otherwise you might end up going to Mcdonald's for first few weeks.

* 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

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? I just calculated in total at the end of the semester, so I have no idea.
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Don't buy things too much because everything is cheap in China

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
How much did the program encourage you to use the language?

0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language

all classes are 100% taught in Chinese

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? Intermediate
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Advanced
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? CHNS 22
How many hours per day did you use the language?
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? Don't assume that everyone is fluent in English. More frequent you talk in Chinese, faster your level improves

Direct Enrollment/Exchange

* Did you study abroad through an exchange program or did you directly enroll in the foreign university? Direct Enrollment

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • International Students
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • International Students
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?
  • intenvise program
  • international atmosphere
  • location
* What could be improved?
  • program with local students
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? not limited to this program, but for students who are planning to study in China in general, don't need to carry a large amount of money on your first day and extremely worry about pickpockets.

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 Academic or Linguist
You went abroad with specific academic goals in mind; the program credentials and rigor of your coursework abroad were very important to you. You had a great time abroad, but never lost sight of your studies and (if applicable) were diligent with your foreign language study. Good for you!