Eye-opening and humbling experience! Past Review

By (Microbiological Sciences and Immunology., California State University - Long Beach) - abroad from 05/18/2013 to 06/25/2013 with

Atlantis: Pre-med Fellowship Abroad

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I gained firsthand clinical experience that was definitely unique from clinical experience in the US. The doctors and nurses were very welcoming and informative. Their enthusiasm for knowledge and teaching was impressive. I definitely have solidified my passion for medicine after this internship, and I am excited to use my experiences when applying to medical school.

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.

* 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:

There were some parts of the neighborhood near the university dorms that were unsafe, but the program coordinators were very good at warning students to stay away from those areas. Plus, they would suggest to us alternative routes to get to certain destinations.

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? No

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? About 50 each week
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Budgeting about 50-100 euros is enough for food, travel expenses, leisure, shopping activities, etc per week

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? None
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Beginner
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? N/A
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 the residents in the neighborhood, talk to university students at the dorms, and practice!

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • 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?
  • Hospital Shadowing
  • Base5 Program
* What could be improved?
  • Administrative Communication
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? More information on housing situation in Sao Miguel University Dorms

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!