Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Amazing Experiences in a Diversity of Communities and Environments. Past Review

By (Earth and Environmental Science, Wesleyan University) - abroad from 01/27/2014 to 05/09/2014 with

SIT Study Abroad: Panama - Tropical Ecology, Marine Ecosystems, and Biodiversity Conservation

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
This program allows you to meet a lot of people and communities that you wouldn't otherwise. I meet so many inspiring people that taught me so much about myself and about Panamanian culture. Completely worthwhile experience and I can't wait to go back.

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.

* 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)

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? Intermediate
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Advanced

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

  • Americans

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Independent Study Project
  • Homestays
  • Hands on learning
* What could be improved?
  • Small organizational details
  • Language class format
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I wish I had known a bit more about Panamanian culture before arriving, and was better informed on our schedule/ packing list.