A program perfectly fitting my interests, organized by experienced staff Past Review

By (Macalester College) - abroad from 02/03/2020 to 05/17/2020 with

SIT Study Abroad: Belgrade, Budapest, and Vienna - Comparative European Perspectives on Conflict and Democracy

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Yes, this program helped me focus on Peace and Conflict Studies and the Balkans region better than I could at my home institution. The independent research project experience was very enjoyable and helpful for my Honors Thesis.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 6 months+

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

I am very interested in the topic and the region so I enjoyed the educational experience. In the beginning, the classes were more lecture-heavy than what I prefer (and what I am used to), but I understand that it was very important to ensure students are familiar with the very rich and complex history. Apart from the context, we also received a brief introduction to the literature in peace and conflict studies, including transitional justice and memory studies, so that we could have starting points to work from depending on where our independent research project takes us (if following that route). I appreciated this opportunity to focus deeper on the parts that are the most interesting to me. The highlight of my experience was the independent research project and I felt very supported. In terms of the intensity, it was slightly easier than what I am used to, but I also made sure to read all the material in detail, which did take up some time. I felt as though I had a nice balance between studying and exploring other parts of the study abroad program.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

I was happy with the staff. You can tell that they ran the program numerous times -- everything ran smoothly from our arrival to host families, and trips. There were so many moments when they would answer our questions before we even asked them because they know what students tend to wonder about. They are very friendly and they made their office hours very clear which helped make it easier to approach them when needed.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

My host family was nice, they took me to many trips within and outside of Belgrade. The house was clean, the food was good. I also felt like I could take personal time when I needed to.

* Food:

I liked the food. It is harder for vegans and vegetarians to find options.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I can comment on how the program handled the covid-19 evacuation. Of course, the process was hectic, but I felt as though they did as well as they could.

* Safety:

I felt quite safe in the city, but I also did not stay out late nor went clubbing. I thought that the program staff gave a very useful and comprehensive safety presentation at the beginning of the program.

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)

Easy, food stipend is higher than the costs of food in Serbia.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes

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?
  • Research opportunity
  • Course topic
  • Trip
* What could be improved?
  • More interactive coursework
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? -

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!