Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Scotland Studies in Learning and Life Past Review

By (Anthropology, San Jose State University) for

ISEP Exchange: Edinburgh - Exchange Program at Edinburgh Napier University

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Study abroad was very worthwhile. Though I had trouble during my first semester balancing my school, friends, and home sickness, I learned so much and gained a lot from the experience.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 2 weeks - 1 month

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The differences between the UK and US education systems made the first semester of my program incredibly difficult. Luckily, as I am staying in the UK for a full year I was able to learn from my mistakes in the Fall and alter my school habits accordingly for the Spring term.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* Food:

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

University arranged field trips for the international students were interesting and affordable. The made the experience even more enjoyable.

* 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

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

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

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  • Americans
  • International Students
* Who did you take classes with?

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A Look Back

* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Above all things be proactive. It is difficult to adjust to a new environment and impossible to figure everything out on your own. Talking to to international office and making friends is a great way to find a system of studying and living in a new country that works.