ARSP Amizade in Washington DC Past Review

By (Anthropology and Urban Studies, University of Pittsburgh - Pittsburgh) for

Amizade: Washington D.C.

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Great experience and an excellent opportunity to not only gain a different perspective on the issues of identity, the Holocaust, and social justice but also an incredible cross-cultural immersion.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 1 month - 6 months

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Good discussion and ample time to reflect on each days activities.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

Stimulated dialogue. Great class size. Exposed you to DC and had ARSP volunteers as guides, which was great instead of hiring someone outside the program.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Hostel housing so you know what to expect: lots of beds, little privacy, but a lot of time to meet people. Nice downstairs lounge/chairs and a great service kitchen. Bathrooms were clean and showers were steadily warm.

* Food:

Food is expensive in the city and the continental breakfast served at Hostel International is muffins, toast, cereal, and mixed fruit.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Holocaust Museum Tours, Holocaust survivor discussion, German/Jewish Dialogue Panel, various DC memorials, and Lecture about US immigration, refugees, and detainees.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

DC is a safe and you can easily walk around at night without any worries.

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)

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Hostel
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • International Students

A Look Back

* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Be opened minded and really engage with the dialogue and discussion. Don't be afraid to ask questions!