Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Great but would do things differently if I could. Past Review

By (Oklahoma State University - Stillwater) - abroad from 01/13/2019 to 05/11/2019 with

API (Academic Programs International): Caen - Université de Caen

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I improved my french abilities but sadly I wish I didnt go or maybe just have convinced my girlfriend (now ex) to have gone with me. leaving her really was the worst.

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.

* 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

The program was great. I'd maybe ask for harder classes as they were really just the same things I've already learned and I'd try and talk to more french people outside my host family. Also try and be less nervous.

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? $20-50
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Dont buy things that are not necessary.

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

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? Intermediate
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? Sophomore level french courses.
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? Talk to as many people as possible. Find some students from the region and speak to them as often as possible. Avoid using your own language.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* 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? 0

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Host family
  • Food
  • City
* What could be improved?
  • Add courses with french students
  • NA
  • NA
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I wish I knew what I would have regretted not doing. And the things that would come after.

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!