Great experience! I want to go back! Past Review

By (Fairleigh Dickinson University) - abroad from 01/25/2016 to 05/24/2016 with

Fairleigh Dickinson University: Oxfordshire - Semester at Wroxton College

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned that there are other ways of life and people take life at different speeds. Culture is a big part of any place and every person. You really get a better respect and understanding when you travel to new places and can live how they live.

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.

The Wroxton Experience is unlike any other experience. From the start, you are entirely immersed in another way of life. It starts with approaching the Abbey, which grows bigger than you can imagine as you finally approach it. All of the classes and living quarters are in the Abbey or next door in the carriage house. The classes are wonderful. I took two English classes, a CORE class, Anatomy of Contemporary Britain, and an independent study in Biology (because I was a Chemistry major at the time). I still think about what I learned and experienced through these classes. The English class focused on plays was a great experience. While it was difficult at times, the ability to see the plays (or ballet) firsthand throughout the country was an experience I will never forget. I still talk about them to this day. This program is very well planned with trips every weekend - Scotland, Wales, France, and many major (and not major) cities throughout England. You really get to see a lot as an included perk of the program. Travel break is also an opportunity to go somewhere that isn't included in the program. I went to Amsterdam, Berlin, and Prague. I enjoyed every minute of it. In addition to that, I also found extra time to go to Spain and Croatia. This program really is the best of both academic experience and traveling. I recommend this program to everyone I can!

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The administration in the host country is good. Talk to the department (Brian Swanzey) early in your college career to ensure that you save the correct courses for when you go abroad. Make your interest known early! Apply early! Reach out to alumni if you have any questions!

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

My experience was different than most when I was at Wroxton. I was originally placed in a beautiful room with a view of the lawns. Unfortunately I was moved to a different smaller room due to renovations. My new room was still lovely, newly renovated, but didn't have the view that I loved to wake up to. It's ok, I still loved my room. It was on the quieter side of the Abbey (but that's dependent on your neighbors). Oh, and be mindful of the birds that like to visit.

* Food:

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I felt fairly integrated with the local culture. Going to town (Banbury) was always an option. People in the area are aware of the College and know that Americans study nearby. The pubs in the area are nice. There is also a club that is available on the weekends. Overall, its a good time.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I personally didn't have many health issues during my stay at Wroxton. I twisted my ankle, but I just needed to rest and go to the local Boots for some pain reliever. I know other people who needed medical attention were catered to quickly. The staff at Wroxton set up her appointments and drove her when appropriate.

* Safety:

Wroxton is beautiful and I always felt safe. Just as you would anywhere in the US, travel with a friend when in town at night. Be aware of your surroundings in major cities (ie. London, Paris, etc).

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)

Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? I didn't stick to a budget, which I probably should have. Try to make a budget for the semester and stick to it. Most of your needs are accommodated. Try to keep your shopping in check and not make too many additional purchases. I suggest putting money aside just for travel and other experiences. When visiting places (which you'll do a lot of), if you want to buy something from the gift shop, make sure it has utility or is small. You still have to bring it back with you in your luggage.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Other
* 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?
  • The Abbey
  • Travel
* What could be improved?
  • Nothing
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? That it would change your life and everything becomes a "Before Woxton" or "After Wroxton" experience

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 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.

Individual Course Reviews

Course Name/Rating:

Anatomy of Comtemporary Britain

Course Department:
Instructor: Dean Baldwin
Instruction Language: English
Comments: This class gives you a great synopsis of how the UK developed into its current existence. There are a few quick courses upon arrival that help you succeed in a new place. Also, where else can you learn about cheeserolling as college credit?
Credit Transfer Issues: