My study abroad experience was made by me, not the CET program. Past Review

By (Politics and European Cultural Studies, Brandeis University) - abroad from 01/24/2013 to 05/16/2013 with

CET Prague

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
It was worthwhile! I had a wonderful time in Prauge and met incredible people. I would have chosen a different program in the Czech Republic, though.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? None

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* Food:

I cooked and bought my own food.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

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? 50 American Dollars
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Create a strict budget, but don't be afraid to stray. Understand that you are there for an experience--spend money on concerts and cultural experiences, traveling. NOT ON CLOTHES OR MCDONALDS OR STARBUCKS. Immerse yourself!

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
How much did the program encourage you to use the language?

0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? None
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Beginner
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? No Czech courses prior
How many hours per day did you use the language?
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? Practice with anyone. Make friends. Talk to people at the markets and tram stops.

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?
  • Czech Buddies
  • Transportation pass
  • Location of apartments
* What could be improved?
  • Structure of courses and work
  • More individualized focused/more intellectual
  • Allow students to explore and discuss
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? That CET wasn't well connected with Charles University and the program was not interested in individual research.