Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

AMAZEBALLS Past Review

By (Dramatic Arts, University of Southern California) - abroad from 09/09/2013 to 12/14/2013 with

British American Drama Academy: London/ Oxford - Direct Enrollment & Exchange

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned a lot about how to be a disciplined actor. As a B.A., that don't stress the discipline when it comes to being on time, professionalism, etc as they do in a conservatory. Many of the ideas I already knew but the program just forced me to act on them daily. I also learned just how different people are and think in the UK. How they regard the arts, how they regard culture/race. It was beautiful. The program was definitely worth while. There was so much more I learned as an actor and as a person that I definitely can't fit on this application. One thing I will say though, as an actor, body preparation is IMPORTANT. Train and take care of your body, it is your office! It will be challenged vocally, physically, and mentally on a daily basis!

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 grew so much as an actor and as a person. The professor were so helpful and challenged us in a lot of ways. I loved it.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

THEY WERE AMAZING. EXTREMELY SUPPORTIVE, HELPFUL, AND FRIENDLY.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

They were okay. I loved the location. The people who worked at the front door were also very nice too. However, the washing machine was terrible, the heaters barely worked, some of our windows didn't open, and some tools for the kitchen we never received. Our fridges were also wayy too small for five people.

* Food:

Food was fine. The food at the school was inexpensive and the woman their was nice. Food in London was WAY TOO EXPENSIVE.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Our program was all American students so it was more of a challenge to go out and meet British people and learn British culture, but, I DID! There were some things I really wish I would of done, but I got to see and experience A LOT so I'm grateful!

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

At first, with my dental issue, it was hard, and expensive, but once I found the right dentist through my network everything went semi-smoothly.

* Safety:

There was not one time that I did not feel safe.

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)

London is super expensive and I ran out of money on two occasions. Part of it was because of my dental issue and the unexpected funds for that, BUT, I would of ran out of money regardless at some point. Thank God for BADA staff, and eventually, my father.

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? About $60-$80 (about 30-45 pounds)
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? SAVE AS MUCH AS YOU CAN. WORK, A LOT, BEFORE COMING. Especially if you are going to London, which was just voted the most expensive city in the world.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Direct Enrollment/Exchange

* Did you study abroad through an exchange program or did you directly enroll in the foreign university? Direct Enrollment

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?

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Conservatory Style
  • Being in London
  • The Rehearsal/Performance Aspect
* What could be improved?
  • Our transport to shows should be paid for
  • MORE DIVERSITY OF STUDENTS IN PROGRAM
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? How expensive London really was. I knew that it was expensive, but WHOA.

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!