Meaningful Exposure to a Different Country Past Review

By (Trinity University) - abroad from 08/15/2014 to 12/16/2014 with

Syracuse University: Hong Kong - Syracuse University in Hong Kong

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned a lot about myself, and what I'm comfortable with and what I want out of my life.

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.

Besides two classes, the classes were not challenging and seemed poorly set up and poorly taught. It was the weakest aspect of study abroad.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

They were always there when I needed them. Very receptive.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

It was excellent

* Food:

We were not provided food, and had to pay for our own, which got to be expensive.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

This was the best part of the trip. I made many local friends. It was easy to immerse yourself.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

n/a

* Safety:

I felt very safe. I felt comfortable enough to walk around alone at night.

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 75

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

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
  • International Students
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
  • International Students
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?
  • The city
  • Local friends
  • Housing
* What could be improved?
  • Classes
  • Cultural Integration for other students who are less willing
  • Helping with food
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? n/a