SU Abroad has provided me with a great opportunity to experience London as a cultural city. Past Review
By Christal Y (Television/Radio/Film, Syracuse University) for
Syracuse University: London - Syracuse University in London
Definitely! I made my own experiences and did not worry about what others thought. I experienced London through what it had to offer as an underground culture rather than the famous spots. I've grown aware to sub-culture and how other countries are constructed through other people's eyes. London has become a place I would love to live in.
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. |
It was a great pity that we didn't learn what the British school system was like at all. It was very hard to meet British students or friends despite the opportunity to study in London, or meet them in a non-alcoholic atmosphere. Although the program was great, it was overall very much re-inforcing the American Bubble. Most courses were like panels, not much open discussion, and would probably do better to immerse students in British culture through guest speakers or tours. |
|
* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
They were extremely helpful, kind and patient. I did not expect the program's faculty to be so attentive and knowledgeable. They were definitely more agreeable to work with than the staff back at home. |
|
* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
There was an enormous amount of panic and tension while trying to find housing and figure out the city of London. I think there should be a day which they teach you how to navigate the transportation system before letting people run wild looking for housing. |
| * Food: |
It's all about finding places yourself through review sites such as qype or yelp. Word of mouth is not always good from American students who do not live outside their bubble. |
|
* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
School events were mildly enjoyable, but very much worth it (because they were free!). However, sometimes the guiding felt forced, and time was always heavily restricted. They should always remind the students that it's easy to travel back into London. |
|
* 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) |
|
Other Program Information
|
* Where did you live?
Select all that apply |
|
|
* Who did you live with?
Select all that apply |
|
A Look Back
| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | Don't waste too much time traveling to Europe. Explore London as a great city on its own because you would much rather develop relationships that allow you to travel back than look back and realize that you've made no connections. |
