Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Go to Russia! Do it NOW! Past Review

By (Trinity University) - abroad from 09/02/2016 to 12/18/2016 with

CIEE: St. Petersburg - Russian Area Studies

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I got better at dealing/being with people. I felt at peace with myself knowing that I put myself out there

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.

All my classes were in Russian, so of course they were difficult. However the teachers and admin knew this and they helped us Americans out when we did not understand something, which was often. They could be talking full speed in Russian and when there was something we collectively did not understand, they would explain in English and continue on in Russian.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

They were absolutely great, they knew the answer to every problem.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I loved my housing, the family was energetic and friendly, and my host mother really knew what she was doing.

* Food:

Russian food is pretty basic, and all the soups, bliny, and borsch may seem bland after a while, but during the winter months the meat and potatoes really hit the spot.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

There are certain Russian concepts that matched my personality perfectly. These include not smiling in public and being blunt, which is harder to do now that I'm back in America.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I did not have any health issues but I believe those who did were taken care of well by CIEE.

* Safety:

Saint Petersburg is a very safe city, much safer than I ever would have expected. There are men in uniform just about everywhere you go from police officers to special forces.

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

I would go back today if I could. I came back a more rounded person and I can't get enough of peoples' reactions when I tell them I studied Russian in Russia.

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)

I can't say what I spent every week, but I am a naturally frugal person. That's why I loved Russia so much because it's CHEAP.

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

They were highly encouraging, but there is only so much they can do to get students to speak the language. It comes down to the individual and how much they care about learning the language.

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? Intermediate
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Advanced
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? Intermediate
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? Just talk. You will make mistakes no matter your level, and Russians will correct you. That is the best and fastest way to learn, period. You will also get a little tired of the language by the end of the program, and it's important to keep your motivation up. Do this by either changing up your language routine, or try what I did and study another language for a little. This sounds strange, but you will reach a point when all the words start to sound the same, so put in a little variety and so you can come back with a fresh start.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* 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?
  • The people
  • The language acquistion
  • Exploring the hidden nooks of St. Petersburg
* What could be improved?
  • Having classes with local students.
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Gauge yourself on when was the last time you felt nervous to do something. If you're nervous a lot, as long as you're not being stupid and putting yourself in needless danger, then you're doing it right. I wish I hadn't gotten too comfortable with my routine.

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!