This semester will stretch you in so many great ways Past Review

By (Computer Information Systems, Northwestern College) - abroad from 01/21/2015 to 05/01/2013 with

Northwestern College: Muscat - Spring Semester in Oman

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
It was definitely worthwhile. I learned about myself, others, and the world in ways I never could have hoped for.

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.

This was the best semester of my college years. This program is for anyone looking to stretch themselves. I discovered a love for knowledge, culture, and people that I never knew I had.

* 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)

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $10
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Eat food from grocery stores and make your own meals. Don't buy trinkets or souvenirs until the end. Become friends with traditional shop owners and don't be afraid to haggle prices.

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? You have to force yourself to use Arabic because most people there speak English. It is worth the challenge.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
  • Hostel
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

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

Select all that apply

  • 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?
  • Great weekend expeditions
  • Incredibly hospitable culture
  • Very supportive on-site staff
* What could be improved?
  • The Arabic language courses are extremely challenging
  • Some younger students may not be ready for the challenge in academics and faith
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I wish I knew how important it would be to force myself to practice the language. It is too easy to let it slip. I wish I had been more prepared to be outgoing and adventurous is meeting new people. I would have learned so much more.

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!