Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Studying in a gated and safe campus while exploring Istanbul on the weekends Past Review

By (International Relations and Affairs., Tufts University) - abroad from 09/12/2011 to 01/06/2012 with

Koc University: Istanbul - Direct Enrollment & Exchange

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
What I enjoyed most about the program were the people. Koc University attracts many exchange students from all over the world, so I not only got to interact with Turkish students but also students from all over. The campus is very safe and easy to navigate. Professors are accessible and classes are not difficult.

Review Photos

Exchange: Istanbul - Koc University Turkey Photo Exchange: Istanbul - Koc University Turkey Photo Exchange: Istanbul - Koc University Turkey Photo Exchange: Istanbul - Koc University Turkey Photo

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 6 months+

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

* 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?

* 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)

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

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? None
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Beginner
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? None
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? Take the Turkish language course, it will definitely help you to navigate your way around the city. Practice Turkish with the locals, they are very receptive.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • Americans
  • 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?
  • The people
  • The campus/facilities
  • The cafeteria
* What could be improved?
  • Transportation of getting in and out of the city
  • At times the study abroad office was rather hectic
  • Having a fluent English speaker at the health services
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? The distance between the city and the campus

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!