Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

an unforgettable experience ! Past Review

By (International Travel Management, University of Brighton) - abroad from 07/13/2012 to 08/11/2012 with

China Study Abroad Reflections: Comprehensive Reviews of Past Programs

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
It was absolutely worthwhile. I had a time of my life that I will remember forever. China is an exciting place to be and I would love to go back there. The INTO programme was very well organized, staff was friendly and helpful and I have participated in the wide range of activities. I have mostly enjoyed the kung fu class and visit to the Great Wall. Our Chinese teacher was very experienced in teaching international students. Her friendly approach to the students made me want to learn Chinese even more. I was pleasantly surprised how friendly Chinese people are and felt really safe during my stay. Sadly I wasn't enough adventurous to try some of the different local cuisine specialties such as scorpions. Maybe next time. Lastly I couldn't believe how much Chinese people love Karaoke and they are not embarrassed to sing it loud :)

Personal Information

If you took classes at multiple universities, list those universities here: INTO China - Beijing Foreign Studies University
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

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)

* Was housing included in your program cost? Yes
* Was food included in your program cost? Yes
Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? £50
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Always bargain at the local market

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? None
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Beginner
How many hours per day did you use the language? 10+

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
  • International Students
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • 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?
  • Chinese culture
  • Chinese Language classes
  • INTO staff
* What could be improved?
  • nothing
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? To take only half full suitcase, so I have a space for clothes and souvenirs that I bought in China

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!