Past Review

By (BIOLOGICAL AND BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES., Wellesley College) for

The School for Field Studies / SFS: Turks and Caicos Islands - Marine Resource Studies

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
The experience was worthwhile, but wasn't fulfilling academically. The experience is also heavily dependent on the people and group that you're with, and I feel that aspect could be something some people would not like.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 6 months+
The term and year this program took place: Spring 2010

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Two of the professors were new and were not adequate or well-liked by the students. The workload was manageable but it was difficult to complete because of miscommunication and lack of inspiration on both the professors' and students' parts. The academic environment was a definite downgrade from the Wellesley classrooms.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

An old hotel converted into dorm rooms. Girls and boys were separated into separate wings. An average of 4 people per room, bunk beds, and private bathrooms. Lots of bugs everywhere! <br /><br />

* Food:

Nothing special, nothing horrible. Easy to be vegetarian.

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

Finances

Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Bring money for going out and bars if that's what you like to do. Also bring about $200 if you want to enroll in their advanced open water course. In general, bring a little more cash than you'd predict to spend.

Language

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? None

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* Who did you live with?

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  • Americans
* Who did you take classes with?

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  • Americans