Such a good experience that I'm returning to Morocco! Past Review
By Amanda S (International Studies, Old Dominion University) for
ISA Study Abroad in Meknes, Morocco
The six weeks I spent in Morocco was great. However, it was not enough time so I am going back for a semester exchange program. My experience abroad has helped me gain a better perspective toward the Arab culture and appreciate the differences.
Personal Information
| If you took classes at multiple universities, list those universities here: | Moulay Ismail University |
| How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | 0-2 weeks |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
The teachers knew the material and were always willing to help. I especially liked my Islamic Society and Politics course because we got to go experience the things we talked about out in the city. |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
Sometimes things seemed unorganized, but the support team always ended up executing plans and helping out. I think that the laid-back style came along with the laid-back culture of Morocco. |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
My host family made sure I was taken care of. I rarely needed to buy anything. |
| * Food: |
The food was delicious! |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
We took 5 field trips to different cities, all of which I loved. I was also able to go on a separate field trip with my host family to a beach house. |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
The city was pretty safe, but I would advise women from walking alone at night. Just try to stay in groups and you will avoid any unwanted attention. |
| If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? |
No
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Finances
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* 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) |
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Language
| * Did your program have a foreign language component? | Yes |
| If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition? |
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| Language acquisition improvement? |
I could practice the language with local Moroccan friends, my host family, and other ISA students. I was able to use the language and practice by just being in the city and interacting with my family, who (for the most part) did not speak English. There were many Moroccans, especially college aged students, who spoke English. |
Other Program Information
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* Where did you live?
Select all that apply |
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* Who did you live with?
Select all that apply |
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A Look Back
| * What did you like most about the program? |
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| * What could be improved? |
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| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | A student that is comfortable with a completely different culture from the US and who is flexible. |
