London: You Will Love Getting to Know This Historical, Yet Still Very Modern, City! Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The academics were very similar to any US school system - you get out what you put in. If you read the books, attended class (both at the school and on excursions outside of class), and used enough of your free time on homework then the teacher gave you an appropriate grade. And of course the teacher is extremely accessible with class sizes being anywhere from 5-15 people, depending on the number of people in the program. The homework load was easy compared to a term at home, but since there were many other mandatory demands on your time then life felt very busy and exhausting - but in the best way possible, of course! Midterms and finals are crazy busy but hey, the other 9 weeks are the best in your life, so it seems a fair trade.

On-site administration of your program

This is a great facility that is run by people who really care. There was an issue with a host family that two girls needed help with and the on-site administration was very good about supporting the girls and making sure the rest of their time abroad was much better. Also, the director has helped write London travel books - so you are in great hands in terms of city (and general UK) knowledge.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

My host family was terrific. There were two of us in the program living at this home (a single parent and 2 kids) and we were both treated as close friends/welcome guests. Obviously, we needed a lot of help settling in and learning the neighborhood, which my family was very good about. They had been welcoming students to their home for 10 years so they had plenty of experience and systems already in place that worked well. No need to buy anything basic, like sheets or towels, but you will need to provide your own personal hygiene products and food for lunch and some dinners.

Honestly, the only reason I'm giving this 4/5 stars is because there was simply too much food! There was certainly some pressure to eat all of the food offered, and even to take seconds, but of course if I really cared enough then I could have refused and had smaller portions. They also gave us a great recommendation for an Indian restaurant that became a favorite of many in the program. There are many complaints about English food out there, but you won't hear any from me. There is terrible food, just like in the US, but is pretty easily avoided. Love the eggs, bacon, and beans on toast for breakfast, which is offered most days all day long.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

London is full of culture, so much so that there was no way to see everything in the 3 months we had to explore. But we saw all of the highlights - often included in the classes themselves - and were there for big celebrations like the Chinese New Year and St Patty's Day. Big excursions included in the program fees included Hampton Court, York, Oxford, and Stonehenge. Absolutely wonderful time on all the trips - although sometimes a little chilly!

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

A police officer visited us on our first day and gave us a rundown on how to be safe in the city. As far as I'm concerned common sense took care of the rest. There were no health issues during our stay.

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

Select all that apply

• Host Family

Select all that apply

• Host Family
• Americans