International Relations at its best! Past Review

By (International Relations And Global Studies, The University of Texas at Austin) - abroad from 02/05/2013 to 05/21/2013 with

SIT Study Abroad: Switzerland - International Studies and Multilateral Diplomacy

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
It was absolutely worthwhile. I was able to get contacts for future employment at international organizations.

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.

It was a great and extremely useful experience.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The Academic Directors were extremely helpful.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The homestays really brought you closer to the culture!

* Food:

Food was exquisite!

* 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)

Switzerland is very expensive, but the program does give you a stipend.

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? 300 CHF
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Plan on bringing an extra $2,000 for miscellaneous costs and in-country travel.

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
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? 4 semesters of French
How many hours per day did you use the language? 10+
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? Immersion, ask for a french-speaking family.

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
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?
  • Visits to international organizations
  • Travelling
  • Independent Study Project
* What could be improved?
  • The RME cousrse was unnecessary
  • Skype needs to count as Interactive Research Interviews
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Nothing

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 Networker
An active student leader, it was important for you to network abroad as well. Once overseas, you sought out student clubs, volunteered with local organizations, or attended community events. You encouraged your friends join you, and often considered how you could reflect your international experiences in a resume.