Amazing experience! Past Review

By (Villanova University) - abroad from 08/12/2012 to 12/14/2012 with

Syracuse University: Hong Kong - Syracuse University in Hong Kong

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
The culture, how to live life, don't take things for granted,, explore and be adventurous. It was very worthwhile.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 6 months+

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Great resources, with a huge library on campus. Coursework isn't TOO rigorous, they seem to realize you are studying abroad. Lots of paper-writing though.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

They place you in serviced apartments you share with three other people. Meaning you don't have to clean the apartment yourself, and they also offer free laundry services!

* Food:

Food is all your responsibility. Then again you'll be in HONG KONG! SO many eating/food options.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

There aren't too many opportunities to mix with the locals unfortunately.

* 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)

Food is relatively cheap. Don't overbudget for that.

Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? If you're very conscious of you're spending, make a spending spreadsheet and take down every thing you buy at the end of the day.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
How much did the program encourage you to use the language?

0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language

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
How many hours per day did you use the language?
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? Try practicing what you learn with the locals that work in the apartment building - the receptionist and cleaners. They are all very friendly, and will be impressed by the little you know.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • International Students
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with?

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Food
  • People
  • Culture
* What could be improved?
  • Mixing with the locals
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? More specifics on living arrangements

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.