Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Wonderful experience and best time of my life! Past Review

By (Maastricht University) - abroad from 01/11/2018 to 05/16/2018 with

American University of Sharjah: Sharjah - Direct Enrollment & Exchange

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Studying abroad at the American University of Sharjah was the best decision of my life. I gained so many positive experiences and learned to be more independent. Before going abroad, I used to stay within my daily environment and stick to the same people. Studying in the UAE, taught me to be more open to other cultures. I fell in love with the Indian and Pakistani culture along with their beautiful clothes. Moreover, I had the chance to strengthen my knowledge about the Arab culture (I´m originally Arab). By that, I experienced a peaceful atmosphere among and unity between all AUS students.

Review Photos

American University of Sharjah: Sharjah - Direct Enrollment & Exchange Photo

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.

* 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:

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)

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No
How much did the program encourage you to use the language?

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

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? Fluent
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Fluent

Direct Enrollment/Exchange

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

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • Americans
  • International Students
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • Americans
  • 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?
  • Living the Arab life/culture
  • Getting to know people from different cultures
  • Being more independent
* What could be improved?
  • Housing: dorms could be improved by providing a better quality
  • Curfew
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Try to make the best out of everyday and go out and experience the UAE as much as you can.

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.