Studying in London Past Review

By (Art History, Criticism and Conservation., Wellesley College) for

King's College London: London - Direct Enrollment & Exchange

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Extremely worthwhile. Every single day that I've been back, I wish I was still in London. It's so important to choose a location that will fit you. For me, London was exactly that. The culture, the city, the food, the architecture, everything about it was such a great fit for me.

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.

My workload was manageable, although concentrated at the end of the semester which was a bit frustrating. Also, all of the assignments were research papers as opposed to shorter assignments. Although the professors were available to answer questions, they were generally more hands-off than professors at Wellesley, and more of the focus was placed on the students' own choices and involvement in the class. (No individual readings, but just a very long list of suggested articles and books to read throughout the course of the semester).

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

I really didn't utilize our study abroad office that heavily as I had no major concerns or problems before departure, or while I was abroad. My limited contact was positive.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

My neighborhood was a bit sketchy, so the dorm had a guard 24/7. It was close to the best market in the city, 2 tube stations, grocery stores, and several pubs.

* Food:

Because each student is in charge of their own meals, I never heard of anyone having a problem.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I didn't really have any from the program--all my activities were arranged by myself or by friends I made while I was there.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

Overall safety was good, although my neighborhood, Borough, South London was a bit dicey at times. (Where my dorm was, not the actual university campus). Just make sure to walk around with someone else at night and stay on the main streets.

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)

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? Probably between 100 and 150 dollars every week. Make sure to have a cell phone, transportation money, and food. I also spent a bit on dorm items, like blankets, plates, cups.
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Just know that you will probably spend more than you plan.

Language

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? None

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

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

Select all that apply

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Location
* What could be improved?
  • General information, organization
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? An independent, curious, outgoing student is the best suited for direct enrollment. Make sure to enjoy every minute of your experience because it will end before you know it.