A truly life-changing and eye-opening experience Past Review

By (California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo) - abroad from 06/01/2020 to 08/27/2019 with

Lankey: Morocco - French and Arabic Study Abroad Programs

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Although I was looking forward to studying in Morocco, I didn't know how much I would love my time abroad. From the first day, Lankey staff members on site were helpful and accommodating. After we all arrived, they took us to get SIM cards and gave a tour of the area around the residency. After, a staff member invited me into her office to check in with me and make sure I was doing okay, as well as offered any support I needed. Furthermore, academics and professors were great. I did Lankey French language program, and I am so happy with my improvement. through classes, being in Morocco, speaking French with my host family, and making local friends with whom I also spoke French, my understanding and ability in the language significantly increased. I recommend this program to anyone who wants to improve their language abilities, go out of their comfort zone while still feeling supported, and explore incredible cities!

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.

I had interesting classes with my Professors!

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

Amazing Staff.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I lived with a host family and they were so kind to me. Great People really!

* Food:

FANTASTIC

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

As long as students followed directions and were aware of their surroundings, there is no reason that someone should be in an unsafe situation. I never had a single problem with pickpocketing, feeling uncomfortable, etc.

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

I become more confident speaking French. I gained Moroccan as well as international friends. I learned, also, how to be responsible and manage my own money.

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)

For me, Living in Morocco is cheaper than in the US. it didn't cost me a lot of Money

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? for other expenses I spent around 700DH each week to buy clothes and memories. not including food though, because I chose the All-Inclusive Program
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? I recommend choosing the All-inclusive Program so applicants can benefit from the scholarship offered by Lankey

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

I spoke French with my host family, in classes, and with the local friends.

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? High-Intermediate
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? As I did, try to speak it with local friends that you will make during your stay at Lankey. Don't be shy to speak french even if you are a beginner.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* 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?
  • People/ Lankey Staff
  • Friends
  • In general, I liked everything.
* What could be improved?
  • N/A
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Don't worry about the money. Go and DO; it will all be worth it.