London: The Experience of a Lifetime Past Review

By (Marketing., Providence College) for

Boston University: London - London Internship Program

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Never did I think I was going to be exposed to so many different cultures, race, backgrounds, values or personalities. I had some of the craziest yet best experiences of my life- experiences I would have never gotten had I stayed at PC this spring. I was too cooped up in the college bubble- so ignorant to world issues and the importance of understanding new cultures and people. I have become a completely different person: so much more independent, confident and I have become so much more focused on my life goals (especially to get back to London as soon as possible).

Review Photos

Boston University: London - London Internship Program Photo Boston University: London - London Internship Program Photo

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.

I thought the workload was perfect- they didn't bog us down with homework but rather wanted us to use the free weekends to travel around Europe. The end of each phase was when the most work was assigned (final papers, projects and presentations) but it was all doable and still academically challenging. The professors didn't bother with pop quizzes or immense reading.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

My program administration was excellent. The advisors were always around and eager to get us out into the city of London. They provided many social programs- academic, field trips to museums,famous sites, etc. They wanted us to experience life as Londoners, at night and during the day. The program was pretty big- but I think they managed it well. They gave us a lot of direction in the beginning of the program, with maps, information, customs, etc. They were also helpful with traveling- getting us information, maps, and safety requirements. My expectations were definitely met.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The dorm was beautiful- I lived with three other Americans- with a bathroom. The floor shared a kitchen which was probably the most annoying thing- it was a little small for eight other people. Other than that it was a wonderful building, with a study lounge. It was also great that one of my classes was in the building.

* Food:

BU did not offer a meal plan to us- however i thought this was fine in the end, I was forced to learn to cook for myself as well as dine out which was great! Taught me to look for the bargain and give up things that were unnecessary.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I absolutely loved our Stonehenge trip- it was freezing out but I had so much fun getting out of the city for a day and walking around such a historical town. Also loved the parties BU organized- got to meet fellow programmers as well as local people.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

I never once felt unsafe in London. You had to be aware of the situation/place you were in- had to be careful at all times because it is such a big city- but I was alone frequently and never once was worried about my safety. You also have to be smart about the time/place and act accordingly. I never had any health problems but friends who did were given care quickly.

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)

Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Try to go to food markets (much cheaper) and look for sales in the supermarkets- because we had a kitchen I didn't realize how expensive food was.

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?

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  • Americans

A Look Back

* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? London is perhaps the most exciting/popular cities in the world. This is more than an experience it is a life changing OPPORTUNITY- to change the way you not only see the world but see yourself. The type of student that would benefit most from this program is someone who is ready for a change, open to learning as well as someone who can adapt.

Individual Course Reviews

Course Name/Rating:

London Architecture and Urbanism

Course Department: CAS AH 381
Instructor: Caroline Donnellan
Instruction Language: English
Comments: I LOVED this course so much. Each class we'd have an hour of lecture and then the remaining of the time we would go on field trips around London. I got to see a completely different side of London which was awesome. The class was not too challenging but more relaxed so we were able to ask questions and learn so much about the history of London. Caroline was so interesting and enthusiastic. My fine arts core was fulfilled for PC too!
Credit Transfer Issues:
Course Name/Rating:

British and European Marketing Strategy

Course Department: COM CM 521
Instructor: Jacqui Bishop
Instruction Language: English
Comments: I LOVED this course! I really learned SO much and was eager to attend each class. Jacqui was so helpful and intelligent, I feel like I learned so much within the first week that I had ever learned in a marketing class before. I realized how much I enjoy the field and am interested in pursuing it as a career. The final project was awesome and we did a great job- and I really gained a lot from it. It also fulfilled my International Marketing course for PC.
Credit Transfer Issues:
Course Name/Rating:

Advertising in the UK

Course Department: COM CM 334
Instructor: Robin Evans
Instruction Language: English
Comments: This course was very insightful. Professor Evans was really intelligent and gave a great background to the industry- and the influence of advertising in the UK. Definitely gained a lot from it.
Credit Transfer Issues: