Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

The best growing up and learning experience of my life! Past Review

By (Accounting/Finance and Political Science, Trinity University) - abroad from 06/10/2013 to 07/27/2013 with

IES Abroad: London - Study London

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned so much about myself going abroad. I thought I was independent before I came to London, but after being in London and not really knowing anyone it forced me to really do a lot of things on my own and make new friends. I have travelled to so many different places by myself and with other people. I wish I was staying longer so that I could travel to more places and really learn more about myself and other cultures.

Review Photos

IES Abroad: London - IES Abroad London Center Photo

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 0-2 weeks

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The administration is lovely and wonderful! Everyone is extremely helpful and always nice!

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Nido is very nice and in a great location. Plus it is nice that they have a cleaning service once a week!

* Food:

The food in London is absolutely amazing! You can get any type of food and the markets are a great place to find good food that is fresh and cheaper.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I feel like I have really experienced the London/England culture and way of life. I joined a gym and tried to make my day filled with normal activities besides just doing the touristy things.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

At night you need to be careful, but for the most part London is a safe area if you are paying attention and know your surroundings.

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)

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? About $150
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Try to save money on breakfast and lunch if possible and look for special dinner deals at pubs and other places. Also go for happy hour if they have one!

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* 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? 0

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • The cultural experience.
  • Meeting new people.
  • The local markets/food!
* What could be improved?
  • I would have liked more time in London.
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Don't pack as many clothes because I have bought a lot here!

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 Avid Adventurer
The wardrobe you packed was better suited for a semester of camping than club hopping. Outdoorsy, you might forgo a crazy night out for an early all-day adventure. You'd rather take in the rich culture of an old town than the metropolis of a modern city, but for you getting off the grid is ideal.