Live Freeman or Die Past Review

By (Political Science and Government., Clark University - Worcester) - abroad from 08/18/2012 to 12/16/2012 with

American University: Washington D.C - Washington Semester Program

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned professionalism and how to work in an office environment. Also, to keep in contact with your friends. It was definitely worthwhile.

Review Photos

American University: Washington D.C - Washington Semester Program Photo American University: Washington D.C - Washington Semester Program Photo American University: Washington D.C - Washington Semester Program Photo American University: Washington D.C - Washington Semester Program Photo American University: Washington D.C - Washington Semester Program 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?

Amazing group of people on my floor.

* Food:

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

One of my friends was injured playing soccer. We tried to call AU to have someone pick us up, but they refused because of "liability" issues. I had to carry her to an AU shuttle bus, and then we made it to the AU health services. They couldn't do much, but they got us a free taxi to the local hospital. Still, if it had been a more serious injury it could have ended badly.

* 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)

D.C. is very expensive, and you have to travel on the Metro a lot for class. Also, get the packed lunch from Tenley Dining Hall. It will save you money for lunch at your internship/when you're out for class.

Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Get a Smartrip card the second you get there.

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
  • International Students
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • 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?
  • My roommates, hallmates, and dormmates
  • My professor, Dan Freeman (Public Law)
* What could be improved?
  • Free Metro
  • Tell students to find internships during the summer
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Buy more suits