Baja Sur, Mexico: Amazing field experience, but hard work Past Review
By Ellen W (Environmental Studies and Biological Sciences, Wellesley College) for
The School for Field Studies / SFS: Turks and Caicos Islands - Marine Resource Studies
What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned how to conduct field research, turn observations into useful data, and how to work with a team. The experience solidified my goal to work to conserve and protect coastal environments in the Pacific. I also loved the group dynamic and had an amazing time living in Mexico with friends.
Personal Information
| How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | 1 month - 6 months |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
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| * Food: |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
I loved the camping trips that the program arranged. They made the whole experience more relaxing and memorable. |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? |
Yes
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Finances
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* 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) |
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| Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? | Around 10 US dollars |
| Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? | Eating on campus is the easiest way to save money. |
Language
| * Did your program have a foreign language component? | Yes |
| How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? | Beginner |
| What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? | Advanced level (300 level course) |
| If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition? |
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| Language acquisition improvement? |
most people spoke English, but I practiced spanish everyday |
Other Program Information
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* Where did you live?
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* Who did you live with?
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* Who did you take classes with?
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A Look Back
| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | A student who is interested in determining if they want to become a field researcher. The program is memorable, but it is a lot of work. Don't expect a care-free semester in Mexico. |
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