I would absolutely study abroad again. Past Review

By (Criminal Justice and Corrections., Pennsylvania State University - Altoona) for

Study Abroad Programs in Dominican Republic

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I enjoyed it, but I would not go with the same organization. I would absolutely study abroad again.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 0-2 weeks
The term and year this program took place: Spring 2010

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The program providers were very knowledgable with the country, but were lacking in organization; projects were finished, but it took a large amount of team work and cooperation.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Considering the fact that the DR is a fairly poor country the housing arrangements were better than I had anticipated. It was a dorm-style building called an Abajo. The only issue was the water just laying in the bathroom area.

* Food:

The food was delicious, but it was the same thing every day.

* 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? No

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? I spent very little on food because it was all provided. I spent about $50 in gifts for my family back home. The majority of the money I had spent was while I was at the airport passing the time.
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Having to pay $10 to get into the country.

Language

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

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Other
  • Other
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
  • Americans