Past Review

By (English Rhetoric, SUNY - Binghamton) for

SUNY Binghamton: London - Semester in London

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I strongly believe my study abroad experience was worth while. Not only was I able to immerse myself in British culture, but I also gained new insight into my own culture.

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.

While studying at Binghamton University, the majority of my classes were taught in massive lecture halls. The smaller sized classes in London induced me to be more communicative during class discussions.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

My faculty leader was helpful throughout the term, making herself readily available for any questions or concerns we might have. The weekly meetings she led also proved to be conducive during our stay in London.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I lived in a one bedroom, two bathroom (one full, one half) flat in the center of London with two other girls. Not only was the flat exceptionally beautiful and accommodating inside and out, but the location was also phenomenal. Only a 10 minute walk to class, I lived a mere few minutes away from the British Museum and other historical landmarks. <br /><br /> Always felt safe and secure while living in my central London flat.

* Food:

Since food is pricey, I was unfortunately not able to experience the wide array of cuisines London has to offer.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

London is swarming with places to go and things to do on any given day/night of the week, including a plethora of fantastic museums (free admission), theatrical productions (reduced prices w/ student discount), beautiful parks, outdoor markets, endless shops, and friendly bars.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

Safety was never an issue while abroad.

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? about 150 pounds
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? cooking meals in the flat saved me a great deal of money in the long run

Language

Language acquisition improvement?

By immersing myself in British culture and interacting with the locals who speak 'proper English' on a daily basis, I can confidently say that my rhetoric has greatly improved over the course of the semester.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* 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? English/Theatre majors

Individual Course Reviews

Course Name/Rating:

Writing About London

Course Department: English/Creative Writing 380R
Instructor: Professor Rosenberg
Instruction Language: English
Comments: Out of all of my courses, this particular class has been most beneficial in preparing more for a future career in journalism. Through intensive writing assignment about our experiences abroad, the class allowed me to find my own voice. By encouraging her students to read their written pieces aloud, Prof Rosenberg provided me with a great sense of esteem when it comes to my writing. The guest speakers (British writers) who shared their own career experiences with the class was truly inspirational.
Credit Transfer Issues: No
Course Name/Rating:

Modern British Theatre

Course Department: English 422L
Instructor: Professor Clements
Instruction Language: English
Comments: While living in a city that is known for its theatrical productions, this course greatly aided my understanding of and appreciation for British theatre. In particular, I found the instructor, a British native, to be one of the most knowledgeable and fascinating mentors I have ever had. Having her as a professor during my stay in London made the transition into British culture much more manageable.
Credit Transfer Issues: No
Course Name/Rating:

Justice and the Law in British Drama and Literature

Course Department: English 380Q
Instructor: Professor Bosnick
Instruction Language: English
Comments: Professor Bosnick provided the class with remarkable insight into British law, which then provoked us to think critically about our own nation's justice system and penal code. The instructor's enthusiasm about the course material made the class all the more enjoyable.
Credit Transfer Issues: No
Course Name/Rating:

The British Experience

Course Department: English 450W
Instructor: Professor Rosenthal
Instruction Language: English
Comments: This class provided me with great insight into British history and culture. Most importantly, it allowed me to immerse myself in all that London has to offer. Attending class each week was a true pleasure.
Credit Transfer Issues: No