Study abroad under the circumstances I had to endure taught me a great deal about myself. Past Review

By (Sociology., Stephen F. Austin State University) for

CEA CAPA Education Abroad: Florence, Italy

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Yes, my experience abroad has increased my cultural awareness. This experience has presented a new outlook on life and has increased my passion about service.

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

In each city the person who gave the city tours were very knowledgeable about their country's history.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

In our hotel in Rome the bugs and mosquitoes were relentless!Plus the hotel in Rome did not have air conditioners to moderate the temperature.

* Food:

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I will never for get interacting with this one little girl who was so intrigued by me. I will never forget playing childhood games with 3 girls at the Waldorf School. I will never forget the little boy who drew a picture for me and attempted to teach me Italian and I taught him English. I have so many memories!

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

I felt safe all the time.

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? No

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? about $150 euro
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Future students should keep enough euro's on them so they will not have to withdraw money from the ATM's. ATM's are not always easily accessible.

Language

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? None
If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition?

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Hotel
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans

A Look Back

* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? A student who is serious and passionate about their field of study would benefit most from this program.