Past Review

By (Philosophy, Politics and Law, SUNY - Binghamton) for

Study Away Programs and Internships in Washington D.C.

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned to live on my own and to interact with different people (albiet very powerful people). I was able to apply the skills from academia and apply it to the real world.

Personal Information

The term and year this program took place: Fall 2009

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

I felt that learning through observing events and being exposed to how policy is made gave me a greater educational experience.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

It was a brownstone in a very nice area behind Capitol Hill. It's considered a part of the Capitol Hill Historic District. <br /><br /> I thoroughly enjoyed my apartment and its location due to its safety, close proximity to work and places to go.

* Food:

Food can be a bit pricy though it is manageable and can get a variety of foods.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I had a chance to visit many museums, the White House, Library of Congress, the Supreme Court, Arlington Cemetery.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

I felt safe most of the time, just need to keep your wits about you. Walk with someone at night. I was able to recieve healthcare through the Health Unit for Congress.

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? Around $100 a week on average.
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? None.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* 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? To research the SUNY Brockport in Washington Program and to attend a information session at Binghamton.