Canada, A Neighboring Country Rediscovered Past Review

By (Geology, SUNY - College at Geneseo) for

Study Abroad Programs in Canada

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned so much about the real meaning of Geography and so much about the history of Alberta and British Columbia, the Rocky Mountains, and still quite a bit of the geology of the land.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 2 weeks - 1 month

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

My professor was incredibly knowledgeable about the area, being native to this part of Canada.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* Food:

My dietary restrictions were difficult and made me more inclined to not eat.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

My professor did a great job of arranging several days of activities, with some downtime at the end of the day, as well as fitting in Free Days, when we were able to do whatever we wanted. The locations we traveled to were all amazing and everyday was fun and engaging.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

Lots of bears in Canada. I felt safe.

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? $100 for two weeks, with a 12% tax in BC and high prices in national parks. I lost some weight.
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? I knew I'd have to pay for all of my own food but . . I just wish I didn't have to. All thanks to the bad U.S. dollar.

Language

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? None

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Hostel
  • Hotel
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans

A Look Back

* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? This trip is an excellent example of learning without realizing one is learning, and coming away with a wealth of knowledge, and so many great experiences. Good for someone who loves the outdoors, hiking, sightseeing, and close interaction with history and the locals.