Swansea is amazing! Study abroad at Swansea University Past Review

By (Economics, Eastern Connecticut State University) for

Swansea University: Swansea - Direct Enrollment & Exchange

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I have become much more independent after my time in Swansea.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 2 weeks - 1 month

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Swansea University really encourages independent study which at first seemed to be a walk in the park because you don't really have any actual homework or studying to do until midterms or finals which consist of a 2 hour exam or a paper. It is required for students who are studying abroad at Swansea to go to classes so you do learn enough sitting in class but I really became prepared for my exams and term papers by using the reading lists my teacher would provide to study. When an exam or paper was approaching I spent a few days reading different books pertaining to the topic that I was to be graded on and actually did learn a fare amount about all of my classes in the end.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The Study Abroad Office was amazing! They were always there to make sure everything was running smoothly. Once a month you are required to pay a visit to their office to check in and they also host a breakfast or brunch from time to time.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I had no problem with the living situation aid, but my actual flat was not the best place to live. I lived in Woodside Flats in the Hendrefoelan Student Village but they are old and not as nice as the houses. Living in the Student Village was amazing and I would gladly move back into my decent flat to be back in the Student Village again. In the Student Village there is a bar, convenience store, diner, laundromat, library, and courts to play pick-up games of soccer (football).

* Food:

I personally love the food in Britain but others may not have the same tastes.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

The nightlife in Swansea is incredible, but even during the day, hanging around the Student Village is always a great time. There is a great national park area a short bus ride away called the Gower which me and my friends would go to every few weekends to just walk around and hang out on the beaches or go hiking. When it gets nice our and the temperatures rise there are some nice beaches to go surfing at the Gower. I also played on the Men's Club Lacrosse Team. Joining a club or sport's team makes it easier to meet a close group of friends.

* 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)

Language

If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition?

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students

A Look Back

* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Swansea is a very fun place to go if you enjoy barhopping and going clubbing at night. There are plenty of other things to do besides go out at night, but it was always a great time going out on Wind Street with new friends.