Incredible city, fascinating history, lovely people Past Review

By (Luther College) - abroad from 01/01/2019 to 05/18/2019 with

IFSA: Belfast - Queen's University Belfast

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I was able to complete my religion minor in a city of such complex religious and political conflict, and was able to travel to incredibly historic places throughout Ireland and the UK. I learned so much from meeting local people, travelling with other students, and developing my cross cultural skills.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 1 month - 6 months

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:

There weren't enough affordable places to eat nearby

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I didn't feel our host university provided enough opportunities for us to meet local students that weren't freshmen

* 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

I really appreciated the ways this program encouraged me to immerse myself fully in the local culture of Belfast, and to engage with other IFSA study abroad students around the world!

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? $100
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Make a weekly budget and follow it closely! Account for all travel expenses/weekend trips before setting that budget too

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

  • Local Students
  • International Students

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • the weekend trips
  • the hands-on support
  • taking an online class with IFSA
* What could be improved?
  • more financial advice
  • more local connections
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Take in every morment--even the ordinary ones!

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 Networker
An active student leader, it was important for you to network abroad as well. Once overseas, you sought out student clubs, volunteered with local organizations, or attended community events. You encouraged your friends join you, and often considered how you could reflect your international experiences in a resume.