When is the next flight back to London? #Cheers Past Review

By (Communication, Journalism, and Related Programs, Trinity University) - abroad from 09/10/2015 to 12/16/2016 with

Boston University: London - London Internship Program

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I gained independence and learned the importance of an open mind. It is a beautiful thing to explore a city with plan and no boundaries. Everyday had the potential for a new experience, relationship, meal and everything in between. The was experience was not only worthwhile, but it was needed. I had no idea how guarded and stuck I was until this semester in London. It liberated me and gave me a whole new perspective on what I want and who I am. It is something I wish everyone had the chance to do certainly at least once, but preferably over and over again.

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.

The courses were very intriguing and I loved my professors. The classes were 4 hours a day but a lot of the time was spent outside the classroom, which I loved! For example, during one of my journalism classes we went to Harrods for the entire class, and for a theatre course we went to the Tate Modern museum. Furthermore, I saw 12 shows over the course of two theatre classes which was amazing because the tickets were paid for the the shows were top notch! All of the professors (for my three courses) used every opportunity available to get us out in the city and learn from our surroundings. The professors were all helpful, but some provided more structure than others when it came to assignment expectations. My classes were valuable, and while finals week was stressful..and frankly, sneaks up on you... the academic experience was positive overall.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The administration was very visible and approachable. They were always around to help whether that be in person or via email and I appreciated that.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The rooms are definitely cozy with 3-4 people and the bathrooms are SMALL...prepare yourself. But its manageable and you get used to it. I loved living in Courtfield Gardens because it was closest to school and just a great location overall. The kitchen has most of the supplies you needed and laundry machines only broke once. Not much to complain about once you get past the decreased amount of space in comparison to what you are probably used to.

* Food:

The stereotypes are right, British food is not great (with the exception of your classic British breakfast). But ALL of the other cuisines are AMAZING! The Thai food, Indian food (go to Brick lane!), Lebanese, Chinese food in China town...the options are endless and delicious. I honestly never had a bad meal and trust me, I had MANY over the course of my time in London. Even going to Exmouth Market or Borough Market, there are so many different things to taste and try. Don't let the negative stereotype fool you, if you're a foodie like me...London will be just fine!!

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

There were days I regretted the fact that I did not transfer directly into a British University, but regardless, I still felt integrated in the local culture. There were always events we could attend that were happening at universities near us, or pubs, dance clubs, theatre productions, comedy clubs, everything! So even though I went to class with American students, there was always something going on in the city that I could do and I never felt that I skipped a beat. The important thing is to be proactive and don't be afraid to go places alone. Some of my best days were when I trekked through museums, parks or even just had a meal and people watched. It was liberating and made me fall in love with the city even more.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I never had any personal experiences, but all of my roommates went to the doctor at some point and they had nothing but positive thins to say. Health issues seemed to be addressed appropriately and the resources were there from the start.

* Safety:

I felt very safe. Obviously don't go places alone at 2 in the morning...especially because navigating which bus to take back home can be annoying. But I felt safe overall

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? I spent about 100 a week...give or take..
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? When I read these surveys before I left, I kept reading how expensive it was and kind of just brushed it off. But yall, it is EXPENSIVE. When double the money is going out and none is coming in, it takes a toll. Please try to actually make a budget and stick to it. I failed...and regret nothing because I ate well haha but definitely at least try to save yourself the painful glances into your bank account toward the end of the semester.

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

  • 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?
  • The organization
  • Location in South Kensignton
  • Information about events and opportunities
* What could be improved?
  • Class and finals Schedule
  • Longer winter break
  • Better connection with universities near us
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I did not think culture shock would happen because I was going to an English speaking city. But it did. London is very different than anything I was used to in the best way. Be prepared for that surprise and embrace the differences.