Intensive design submersion at the top of the world Past Review

By (Graphic Design., Western Washington Universtiy) - abroad from 08/29/2012 to 06/07/2013 with

Study Abroad Programs in Sweden

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I met so many amazing talented people form so many backgrounds. I learned more from my peers than the instructors. I was absolutely worth while.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 0-2 weeks

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

I had an amazing experience. I studied at a design institute affiliated with the main University. The institute was very international and the program very intensive. I feel like I didn't have the regular study abroad experience most students have and I'm very happy about that. I wanted it to be worth my time and money and to be a significant addition to my education. I wouldn't change any of it.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

Everyone was very helpful.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The apartment was nice enough for the year.

* Food:

Food is extremely expensive in northern Sweden. Be prepared to spend most money on food.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

There were always events happening in town we could attend, especially in the winter.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Very fast and caring. I did go to the emergency for a burn wound and they were very attentive.

* Safety:

I never felt in danger at any moment.

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)

1.5 food is very expensive. I spent more on food than rent.

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $100- $300 depending on what I needed.
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Make a budget and follow it as best you can.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No
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
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? None for Swedish
How many hours per day did you use the language? 0
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? Make local friends

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • International Students
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • International Students
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with? 10+

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • The diversity
  • The level of expected work
  • The family environment
* What could be improved?
  • The projects themselves
  • Communication within UID
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? How expensive it would be

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.