One of a Kind! Past Review

By (Wellesley College) - abroad from 09/25/2017 to 12/15/2017 with

SOAS, University of London: London - Direct Enrollment & Exchange

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
The most valuable aspect of studying abroad in London was learning to live independently. Budgeting, cooking, and time managing are some of the skills I developed during the semester. I would say I now feel more comfortable living on my own, adjusting to an urban setting, and balancing my time --the experience was definitely worthwhile!

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.

* 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

Although I was not impressed with the academics at SOAS, and particularly with the way the program arranges assessments for Term 1 study abroad students, I would study abroad in London all over again if I could!

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)

Living close to the university campus eliminated transportation costs --which I think tend to be the most expensive asset of living in London. Groceries are relatively inexpensive. I found it much easier to live on a student's budget if I cooked for myself and walked to university.

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $70-90

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

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
  • Americans
  • 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?
  • The SOAS library is AMAZING
  • Wide range of modules to take
  • Great location
* What could be improved?
  • Assessments for study abroad students
  • Orientation
  • Distribution of information regarding university policies, assessments, etc . to study abroad students
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I wish I had been more informed regarding the nature of assessments for study abroad (SA) students. Had I known that SA students are assessed differently, I would have studied abroad there for a year rather than a term to experience the education system in its entirety.

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!