Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

An Unforgettable Experience Past Review

By (Georgian Court University) - abroad from 07/01/2019 to 08/01/2019 with

API (Academic Programs International): Florence - Lorenzo de’ Medici – The Italian International Institute (LDM)

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned independence and it opened my eyes and mind to another culture - By how they live and appreciate life. It was worthwhile!!!

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 0-2 weeks

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The staff at API in Florence, Italy were phenomenal. I couldn't have asked for a better team.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

My apartment was very comfortable. My four flights of stairs were a workout but I got used to it very quickly. I was across the street from the most popular night club so it took me some time to adjust to the noise in the wee hours.

* Food:

Food! Incredible, amazing, awesome. Miss it!

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I loved living where more of the locals lived. I went to the supermarket and markets to shop. It was a great experience.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I did not have any issues.

* Safety:

During the summer many people are out listening to music or at the open air movie. I always felt safe in my environment. It is suggested to have have a buddy with you and not walk alone late in the evenings.

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

API was amazing and I would definitely take another program with them.

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? Spent approximately $100 per week. I stocked up at the supermarket most of the time. Made the weekends my treat days to go out to eat.
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? I would suggest going to the supermarket and preparing some meals at home. Most students room with another student so sharing in these costs help to make it cost effective.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
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?
  • Excursions
  • Learning about the culture
  • Making new friends
* What could be improved?
  • Promote more to non-traditional students
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I wish I knew more Italian.

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.

Individual Course Reviews

Course Name/Rating:

Social Psychology
Course Department: Psychology
Instructor: Silvia
Instruction Language: English
Comments: I felt my Social Psychology course was a little challenging. The class was assessed by the lengthy papers. I felt that for a summer abroad it was way too much and I wanted to spend more time out exploring than inside writing papers. The Professor was well-prepared and made class very entertaining.
Credit Transfer Issues: There were no issues transferring the credit from LDM through Marist.