Absolutely incredible experience! Past Review

By (University of Maine at Orono) - abroad from 06/02/2014 to 07/01/2014 with

The School for Field Studies / SFS: Tanzania - Wildlife Management Studies

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
This program provided me with a great educational experience, giving me the opportunity to study in several of the national parks and learn about wildlife management and conservation in an incredible environment. The program also provided a valuable cultural experience, with a day-long stay with a local family and frequent interaction with the locals. This experience was definitely worthwhile!

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 1 month - 6 months

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

I thought that the program did a great job of incorporating the topics of wildlife management, policy, and conservation with a unique cultural experience.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* Food:

The kitchen staff did a remarkable job with catering to dietary restrictions, such as vegan and vegetarian, and providing a good variety of 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

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 and housing expenses were covered in tuition, so living expenses were not really an issue. Spending money for souvenirs and other extras is recommended.

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

The Swahili wasn't part of the actual program, but we had lessons from staff members from time to time.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Learning in the field
  • Being surrounded by wildlife
  • Interesting curriculum
* What could be improved?
  • More field exercises/greater variety of exercises
  • The packing list in the field guide
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? The packing list provided in the field guide may lead to overpacking. I could have packed fewer clothes, but warm clothes are a must for the summer program (it is their winter and it actually does get chilly at night and in the mornings). Also, drink mix is recommended because drinking water all the time can get old and staying hydrated is very important.