Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Life Changing Past Review

By (Marist College) - abroad from 01/07/2019 to 06/01/2012 with

Loyola University Chicago: Ho Chi Minh City - Study Abroad Vietnam Center

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
The most important thing I learned was my true passions and capabilities. I found that I was truly passionate about emerging markets and ended up dedicating my education and career to working in them. I also found that I love the every-day adventures of living in another country and which is why I continue to live and work abroad.

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.

* 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?

In my year we had local roommates who became life-long friends.

* 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

This program was the most impactful component of my college education. I ended up specializing my degree to focus on business in emerging markets and fell in love with Southeast Asia. Upon graduating from college I returned to Vietnam again with the Fulbright program, and then spent 4 more years working in Vietnam.

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)

Cost of living is low, but there is so much to do and see that if you have the budget, there is so much you will want to do.

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? 250
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Eat local.

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? Make local friends.

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

  • Americans
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with? 10+

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Connections with local students
  • Ability to see the country North to South
  • Close-knit community within the program
* What could be improved?
  • Nothing
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I was in country during the Tet Holiday. I wish I had understood the significance of this holiday better and made plans to join one of my local friends to celebrate in their home-town.

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 Networker
An active student leader, it was important for you to network abroad as well. Once overseas, you sought out student clubs, volunteered with local organizations, or attended community events. You encouraged your friends join you, and often considered how you could reflect your international experiences in a resume.