Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

The coolest thing I've ever done Past Review

By (Brandeis University) - abroad from 01/01/2018 to 06/26/2018 with

Boston University: Auckland - Internship Program

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned how to be independent/ how to cook for myself which are very worthwhile skills as I will be entering the real world soon.

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

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

it was a nice, modern apartment. I ended up living in a decently big closet though because there was only one bedroom. I had 2 other roommates.

* Food:

Auckland has so many awesome brunch places. Also, the grocery store Is right next to the apartments and super convenient.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I wish I got the opportunity to meet more locals. It was easy to go to bars and talk to people although I didn't form any really good friendships with the locals. I have some friends who joined clubs and were more successful. Kitesurfing club is fun!

* 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

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? 7-10 grand
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Keep track of what you are spending.

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

  • Local Students
  • 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?
  • The friends I made from BU
  • Road trips
* What could be improved?
  • Housing is the first thing that comes to mind, but honestly overall it was great.
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? How to save money

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 Avid Adventurer
The wardrobe you packed was better suited for a semester of camping than club hopping. Outdoorsy, you might forgo a crazy night out for an early all-day adventure. You'd rather take in the rich culture of an old town than the metropolis of a modern city, but for you getting off the grid is ideal.