I learned to see the Middle East through multiple narratives. I grew. Past Review

By (Oberlin College) - abroad from 02/14/2011 to 06/26/2015 with

Arava Institute for Environmental Studies: Hevel Eilot - Study Abroad in Israel

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned to live in a deeply diverse community, which is a reflection of the world. I learned to engage in constructive dialogue and build partnership across deep difference. And, I completed 300 level natural science credits that counted towards my undergraduate degree at Oberlin College. It was remarkably worthwhile.

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:

As a vegan, I was very well cared for.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I could not have been more thoroughly integrated into Israeli culture, and the Middle East more broadly.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

The program could not have been more supportive. When students need assistance, the campus life team adopt them and ensure that all of their needs are fully met.

* 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)

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

Direct Enrollment/Exchange

* Did you study abroad through an exchange program or did you directly enroll in the foreign university? Direct Enrollment

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • International Students
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • Americans
  • International Students

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • The diverse community
  • Peace-building and Environmental Leadership Seminar
  • Living on Kibbutz Ketura
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? It is natural that it would take me a few weeks to adjust to life in this type of setting. I found it difficult to settle in, to adjust to life in the diverse community, on Kibbutz Ketura, in the desert.