Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

The trip of a lifetime Past Review

By (Nevada State College) - abroad from 06/15/2019 to 07/13/2019 with

API (Academic Programs International): Galway - National University Of Ireland, Galway

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned a lot about how important historical cultural practices can have on an ecosystem. How different ecosystems require different management programs. I learned that I am capable of a lot if I put my mind to it! It was absolutely worthwhile.

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.

The education was primarily hands on and out in the field. Covered small details and broad concepts. Thought provoking and excellent at building crucial skills in the ecology field.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

Very kind. Welcoming. Approachable. Very helpful.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I was happy with the housing, the only thing that I didn't like was how easy it was to hear. I could hear my roomates laughing and other such stuff. Also the beds were a bit rough.

* Food:

I got my own food, the food in Ireland is great.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I felt pretty comfortable with the local culture. As far as I could tell everyone was friendly and hospitable to me.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

This is complicated for me. I did have some health issues, although I myself didn't actually get serviced (because of money at a local dr.s office or time constraints at the universities medical center) I could have gotten treated for free with the exception for the cost of the medicine I needed.

* Safety:

Overall I think the host city was very safe. Although as with any place you should be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings on you, ect.

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

I LOVED this program. It was rigorous, but I enjoyed all of it. I only wish I had had more time to meet with the locals.

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)

Food isn't very expensive. I used less money then I had originally thought I would need.

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? Around 150-200 a week.
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Food at the grocery store is cheaper than eating out. Buses or walking vs taxis when you can. Don't blow to much money on their expensive drinks.

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

  • 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? 0

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Learning about Ecology.
  • Being outside so much.
  • Exploring a new country.
* What could be improved?
  • The washing machines were complicated.
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I wish I knew not to pack as much cold weather clothing. More t-shirts. More clothing appropriate for hiking and that are a good defense against ticks.

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!