Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

The most amazing experience of my life. Past Review

By (Computer Software and Media Applications., Santa Reparata International School of Art) - abroad from 09/17/2012 to 12/14/2012 with

Study Abroad at SRISA: Accredited Semester - Fine Arts, Liberal Arts and Design

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
This program is definitely worthwhile. Studying abroad changed my life for the better. It has motivated me to constantly aim to see the world, travel, and has broadened my ways of thinking. I am also more cultural because of this experience.

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.

SRISA is an amazing school of arts and has so much intellect in courses and the country.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* Food:

The food is absolutely amazing.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I was very connected and broadened by the italian culture as well as others. I felt like I eventually became Italian lol.

* 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? I would say at least 100 euros.

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

Speaking and comprehending the Italian language is a big necessity to survive and enjoy the country.

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? Italian Composition
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 studying the language very seriously and make it a huge priority because you will need it just as much as good hygiene.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • Americans
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 teachers and their passion of their course.
  • The traveling.
  • The people and sites of the country.
* What could be improved?
  • Expanding the school.
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? How serious it is to study the language of the country.

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 Outright Urbanite
A social butterfly, you're happiest in bustling cities with hip people, and took advantage of all it had to offer. You enjoyed the nightlife, and had fun going out dancing, and socializing with friends. Fun-loving and dressed to the nines, you enjoyed discovering new restaurants, shops, cafes, and bars in your host country.