Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Learning More Than Language Past Review

By (Japanese Language and Literature., Western Washington University) - abroad from 09/20/2013 to 07/29/2014 with

J. F. Oberlin University: Tokyo - Reconnaissance Japan Program

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned a great deal about myself and how I react to different situations of stress. I also learned about what I believe defines American culture.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 0-2 weeks

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Large amount of work but none of it was very rigorous or difficult.

* 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? No

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? Groceries were about 50 dollars a week, but train fees and other entertainment expenses pushed me more towards 120 a week.
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Track your expenses.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes

Direct Enrollment/Exchange

* Did you study abroad through an exchange program or did you directly enroll in the foreign university? Direct Enrollment

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

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

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • 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?
  • Helpful teachers
  • Plenty of chances to experience the culture
* What could be improved?
  • Less focus on details in grading
  • More focus on comprehension
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? There is not anything in particular I should have known before I came in.

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!