Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

An Experience I'll Never Forget Past Review

By (Brigham Young University) - abroad from 05/07/2013 to 06/20/2013 with

Brigham Young University: London - London Theatre Study Abroad

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned a lot about Shakespeare and theatre in general. I finally learned to like and appreciate Shakespeare's works, and I fell completely in love with theatre. The program was definitely worthwhile. I know I've grown from it, and living in another country has changed some of my views of the world.

Review Photos

Brigham Young University: London - London Theatre Study Abroad Photo Brigham Young University: London - London Theatre Study Abroad Photo Brigham Young University: London - London Theatre Study Abroad Photo Brigham Young University: London - London Theatre Study Abroad Photo Brigham Young University: London - London Theatre Study Abroad Photo

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.

I learned SO MUCH in such fun ways! Definitely an awesome (if not the best) program to join!

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

At first I thought it was a bit old and worn, but I quickly grew to love it. I had everything I needed, and there was always somebody to call with any lighting or door lock issues. The place was great.

* Food:

WONDERFUL. Must try England's Muller Corner Yogurt and burgers from Byron.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I felt pretty integrated. Obviously, I felt like a foreigner all the time, but I didn't feel like a tourist all that much after a while. Living in London really helped me feel like a part of it, not just like a person popping in for a quick touristy visit.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I never had any need to deal with healthcare, so I feel it was fine.

* Safety:

London is actually pretty safe, at least for me. I've heard there's a lot of pick-pocketing (though I was lucky to never have been victim to it), so I'd take care to keep an eye on my belongings when I'm out, especially in busy/crowded places. I'd also be careful when crossing the streets because the cars drive really fast and pedestrians don't seem to have the right-of-way most of the time.

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)

I managed fine. Food can be a bit pricey, but there are always good deals at the markets for groceries. I didn't have to shop for groceries too often, and I ate out plenty of times (though I probably shouldn't have). Living off groceries is definitely cheaper than eating out, but I had enough money to eat out occasionally as well. It really depends on what you want to spend most of your money on.

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $100
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Budget, keep track of the money you spend (online banking works great), take advantage of sales/cheaper prices, and make sure you spend money on things that you think are worth it. And for souvenirs, buy them not for the sake of buying souvenirs but because they're actually important/meaningful or useful to spend money on.

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

  • Americans
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 theatre
  • The people I was with
  • London itself
* What could be improved?
  • More time!
  • More shows to see as a class
  • Some more free days
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Not much. I enjoyed learning every thing as I went along; it helped enhance my experience.

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!