Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

I can't wait to go back. Past Review

By (Secondary History Education, University of Wisconsin - Platteville) - abroad from 08/08/2012 to 05/15/2013 with

ISEP Exchange: Bangkok - Exchange Program at Thammasat University

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
it was totally worthwhile, even though it was hell to get through the application process.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? None

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Professors were great and the teaching good. but could have been better. I think for people who are not all that serious or want a relaxed educational experience this is perfect. Lots of opportunities to learn different things.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

More reliable than UW Lacrosse and UW Platteville. Was always ready to take students to designated place of interest. Answered questions quickly and honestly. Always friendly and courteous.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

They were okay. I didn't stay in University suggested locations.

* Food:

Very good. I liked it alot. good selections.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Always integrated, more socially accepted than here in the USA. Unbelievable how nice the locals and and always trying to include foreigners. but need to be careful of scams because they do exist. If it sounds too good to be true then it probably is.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Professors were willing to take me to the hospital when I got very ill. The University was very concerned (more so than american universities or the study abroad office - which seemed to care little.)

* Safety:

I felt safe when I would travel around but I know like anywhere there are predators and some who are vulnerable must exercise caution. But overall very safe for 12 million people.

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)

the budget from ISEP is very good. I was able to live comfortable and travel on the stipend available. HOWEVER: I do know that in Thailand the cost of public transportation will be rising thus the money will not go as far. This should be a factor in the future for ISEP.

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? 200 US Dollars
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Learn the bus system because and can save you a fortune from taking the taxi everywhere. Plus the taxi is bad for stealing money from foreigners.

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

The language class had a rule of no english when necessary.

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? Beginner
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Intermediate
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? intermediate Thai Language
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? Start studying basics before leaving. Especially in a language not using Roman script. It was a life saver to be able to read in Thai when I went there.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Local 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?

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • professors
  • topics of lecture
  • travel opportunities
* What could be improved?
  • Language class
  • language barrier
  • Better defined class outlines
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I feel I was ready for Thailand when I left, no thanks to the UW abroad office.

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 Academic or Linguist
You went abroad with specific academic goals in mind; the program credentials and rigor of your coursework abroad were very important to you. You had a great time abroad, but never lost sight of your studies and (if applicable) were diligent with your foreign language study. Good for you!