Wales: More Than An Experience Past Review
By Courtney B (Psychology, Peace College) for
Central College Abroad: Bangor - Bangor University
I learned how to be independent and truly be on my own. I grew both personally and intellectually from this experience. I fell in love with the country and developed a special place in my heart for Wales. I met amazing people there and forged great friendships. I proved to myself that I can do whatever I set my mind to and more! I LOVED IT!!
Review Photos
Personal Information
| How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | 0-2 weeks |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
Many of the courses were composed of just a lecture component, with not much in-class activities. The schedule is different in that some classes met twice on the same day at different times or had an extra component added during the week. Because most students go directly into their program of study out of high school, class schedules were based only around specific programs. Because American students do not necessarily take courses all within one program, coordinating a schedule across programs was difficult. |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
Tecwyn was great! He has a lot of experience in directing study abroad programs. He was always available and extremely knowledgeable about anything and everything Wales! |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
Each of us had our own room and bathroom which was really wonderful. However, we were in dorm with many other international students and not many local students. I would have liked to have been around more local students in the dorms. |
| * Food: |
No on-site food was provided so we had to buy and prepare our own meals. A kitchen was available, however, I would have liked an on-site cafeteria, or some sort of meal plan included in the program cost. |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
We traveled to Ireland, England and various places throughout Wales - each of them was very memorable and fun. We were also able to go on some of our own excursions, which was also a great experience. |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
Doctor's visits were free to students. I was able to call the day of and get an appointment and the doctor's were able to see me right away, they were very helpful and friendly. Our program administrator was available with any questions regarding where to go for an appointment and followed-up to make sure I was doing okay. |
| If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? |
Yes
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Finances
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* 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) |
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Other Program Information
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* Where did you live?
Select all that apply |
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* Who did you live with?
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A Look Back
| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | 1. Be prepared to be homesick at first. 2. Enjoy every second of your experience. 3. Be open to try new things. 4. Travel as much as you can. 5. Don't take it for granted! Students who are shy, unsure, or nervous about their study abroad experience would do well at Bangor. Everyone is very friendly and helpful. Great support system here. |
