Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Extraordinary Experience ( Life-changing opportunity) Past Review

By (George Mason University) - abroad from 07/04/2014 to 08/01/2014 with

George Mason University: Milan - Italian Media, Culture & Society

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
It was definitely worthwhile!! I learn so much!! First and foremost the basics of Italian language and the exposure itself made me gain a deep understanding of the lifestyle (how society is driven and what culture is all about).

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.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* 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:

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? No

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? no idea
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Divide your money in different luggage just in case you lose a suitcase or some bag. Also, know your budget! Make sure to keep track of your expenses ( a good idea that will help you is it to collect your receipt of payments).

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? None
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Beginner
How many hours per day did you use the language? 0
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? Get your own italian phrasebook & dictionary and practice whenever you get the chance (ordering at a restaurant is always a good way to get started )

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
  • Hostel
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • Americans
  • International Students
* 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?
  • Food
  • People
  • Locations/Excursions
* What could be improved?
  • Deadlines for assignments
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Can't think of anything.

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.