A fun way to spend the summer (and improve your Hebrew) Past Review

By (Brandeis University) - abroad from 06/26/2012 to 07/30/2012 with

Hebrew University of Jerusalem - Rothberg International School: Undergraduate Study Abroad Program

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Improved Hebrew and independence skills. Made VERY diverse and interesting friends.

Personal Information

If you took classes at multiple universities, list those universities here: Hebrew University of Jerusalem
How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 6 months+

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

In Israel, any type of organization or pre-planning is an extra-special surprise. As long as you have a relaxed personality, this shouldn't phase you too much.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

One apartment shared by 5 people. Each gets a private room, and all share a kitchen, 2 bathrooms and a shower.

* Food:

The on-campus food is bad but Jerusalem is filled with the most delicious restaurants/fresh foods at the shuk! You'll be well-fed.

* 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? 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)

* Was housing included in your program cost? Yes
* Was food included in your program cost? No
Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? I don't know.
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Buy veggies at the shuk, and freeze your bread and other perishables and de-frost the slices you need as you go, or you'll end up throwing out rotting food. Try not to give in to the temptation to eat out too often - rather make meals in your apartment as a group.

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

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? 4
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? Be brave and just TRY (all the time, as often as possible).

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • International Students
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • International Students
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with? 0

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Being in Israel
  • The people I met
  • The summer
* What could be improved?
  • The organization
  • The on-campus food
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? If you feel you are not in the right level class, just switch and don't let them convince you to 'wait a week' in a 5-week program!!