Study Abroad in London, Elon Center @ FIE Past Review

By (Elementary Education, Elon University) for

FIE (Foundation for International Education): London - Study and Intern Program

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I believe that any study abroad experience is worthwhile. However, the Elon in London program allows you to explore culture and society in an individual way while still operating within the Elon support system. It encourages independence, curiosity, and exploration.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 2 weeks - 1 month
The term and year this program took place: Spring 2008

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

While Elon offers relatively few course selections for the Elon in London program, the classes that are given are highly interesting and engaging. The internships that Elon is able to coordinate are also very worthwhile and interactive.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

Elon changes their faculty adviser each semester in London, however they do a good job of sending teachers who understand that you are there for more than just class. The teachers that Elon sends tend to be open minded and happy to be there with you.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The Elon in London flats are amazing. They are in a wonderful part of London, close to both tube and bus stops and are very accommodating to students. Some inconveniences are found, such as lack of refrigerator space and small laundry facilities.

* Food:

Students are expected to buy or cook their own meals. This never served as an inconvenience to me.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Participants in the program are usually eager to travel together and make friends. It is not difficult to find someone to take day or weekend trips with. The program encourages these friendships by hosting dinners and events for its students.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

As long as you were street smart during your time on your own, the program was extremely safe.

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)

Language

Language acquisition improvement?

This is an all-English study abroad opportunity.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans

A Look Back

* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? This is a wonderful program and a great introduction to study in Europe. I highly recommend the Elon in London program.