A Ticket to Me Past Review

By (Psychology, University of Hartford) - abroad from 01/12/2015 to 06/12/2015 with

CIEE: London - Arts + Sciences (University College London)

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I wouldn't even know where to begin with this. One thing I will say is it has taught me more about myself in 6 months than I have learned in my 20 years. Worthwhile would be an understatement.

Review Photos

CIEE: London - Arts + Sciences (University College London) Photo CIEE: London - Arts + Sciences (University College London) Photo CIEE: London - Arts + Sciences (University College London) Photo CIEE: London - Arts + Sciences (University College London) Photo CIEE: London - Arts + Sciences (University College London) Photo

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.

This was the most freedom I've experienced academically as far as keeping up-to-date with the class and the work, but having too much time can have a negative impact (if you allow it to). There are ample resources to support your success, but there are courses that li

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

It was a shock realizing how much smaller everything was, but I quickly (& without effort) got used to the size. I was also based in a hall with mostly locals, which added another level of integration and relationships. The building itself wasn't much to speak of, but that aspect made the entire stay absolutely worth it.

* 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:

I felt safe in any setting at any time of night.

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)

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? 30-50 GBP
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Some random things that worked for me: 1. When buying food, try to buy groceries that will last longer and and can be used/eaten with more combinations. 2. When you see something you like, try to hold off on the purchase because you might see it for cheaper somewhere else. 3. Know the bank that charges the least for international withdrawals 4. Buying random souvenirs for others will only work if you: a. keep a savings strictly for it b. make intermittent purchases (Funds are likely to be tight by the end of you trip) 5. Try to remain conscious of where your money is going.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with? 10+

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • The people I've met
  • The situations I have fallen into
  • Traveling (to and around Europe)
* What could be improved?
  • My finances
  • The amount of time I stayed (extensions would be nice)
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? How much taking this opportunity would change my life and afford me the chance to get a taste of my actual dreams.

Reasons For Studying Abroad

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The Outright Urbanite
A social butterfly, you're happiest in bustling cities with hip people, and took advantage of all it had to offer. You enjoyed the nightlife, and had fun going out dancing, and socializing with friends. Fun-loving and dressed to the nines, you enjoyed discovering new restaurants, shops, cafes, and bars in your host country.