Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

My Life-Changing Colombian Adventure Past Review

By (University of Warwick) - abroad from 05/07/2016 to 07/02/2016 with

The Intern Group: Colombia, Emerging Markets Internship Placement Program

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
It was absolutely worthwhile! In addition to the practical advantage of learning a new language, I gained significant confidence and personal skills from immersing myself in a new culture. I have also gained valuable professional experience and made friends for life from all over the world.

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.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* Food:

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* 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

I felt very well supported by the Intern Latin America staff and organisation, and I feel I have made friends for life and experienced memories that will last a lifetime.

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? 100 dollars
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Make sure you have cash to hand when possible

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? Beginner
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Advanced
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? Bachelor's Degree (in different language)
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? Don't be afraid to embarrass yourself and just make as much effort as possible

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • International Students
  • Other
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • 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 people/ILA staff
  • The organised events
  • The culture
* What could be improved?
  • Communication about the accommodation
  • More defined programme expectations
  • -
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Knowing the complete expectations of the internship beforehand would have allowed me to better prepare for the specific work experience.

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 Avid Adventurer
The wardrobe you packed was better suited for a semester of camping than club hopping. Outdoorsy, you might forgo a crazy night out for an early all-day adventure. You'd rather take in the rich culture of an old town than the metropolis of a modern city, but for you getting off the grid is ideal.