London: One of the most rewarding experiences in my life!! Past Review

By (Literature, Western Washington University) for

ISA Study Abroad in London, England

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Since I have studied in London I have realized that my future prospects are not limited to the US. I can easily see myself moving to London in the future.

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.

The work load was challenging. One of the major differences in London literature classes and American classes are that they lecture quite a bit more. My level six class was the only one that was primarily seminar. I was a little disappointed by this at times because I felt that we didn't portray our thoughts to our potential. The grading system is something that takes getting used to because it is nearly impossible to get above an 80 which is considered an ok grade in the states. It isnt bad, just different.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

They were great and very personable. They were always accessible but often let us do our own thing without intruding too much. The staff was quick to help if we had any issue.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

We needed to buy bedding and dishes but these were easy to at cheap price. We lived in Shoreditch, which was very close to a lot of night life. It was a relatively safe neighborhood as long as you followed the security rules. Just like in any city we had some theft because the rules werent followed. Lock your doors and this wont be a problem. The dorms were close to the tube station. The rooms themselves were a nice size and much more pleasant then American dorms.

* Food:

Not much different then in the states. A lot of restaurant variety which is nice.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Museums and the historical sights were awesome. I especially liked Stratford upon Avon and Hampton Court.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

Dont walk around by yourself at 2 in the morning. Lock your doors when you arent in your bedroom and dont invite complete strangers into your flat. Its just like any city, there are a lot of different people good and bad. Use common sense and London is just as safe as any US city.

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)

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
  • International Students

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • The Excursions
  • London program staff
* What could be improved?
  • cant think of anything
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? A student who is social and interested in seeing a lot without the hassle of booking it yourself. I loved the excursions. If you are more of a loner then the excursions would have been rather annoying.

Individual Course Reviews

Course Name/Rating:

Uses of Memory

Course Department: English 1ENL667.1
Instructor: Justin Sausman
Instruction Language: English
Comments: This course was fantastic and really interesting. Justin was great at facilitating group discussion. The novels chosen for the class were definitely worth reading.
Credit Transfer Issues: