A great way to see and experience China Past Review

By (Economics., Tufts University) for

Tufts Programs Abroad: Tufts in China

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
It was a once in a lifetime experience. I had an amazing time while gaining much insight about Chinese culture, history and language. It has given me a better knowledge of how to get around China. It has also planted in me a strong interest to return to the country to work for several years.

Personal Information

The term and year this program took place: Fall 2009

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The professors were very good and the weekly review classes just for Tufts students were helpful. The program should strive to make academics more strenuous.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The program is a very well organized. It allows you to see a lot of different cities in China. However, academically it is only as language intensive as you make it.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Very comfortable singles with private bathrooms <br /><br /> Great location, most classes are in the building directly next to the dorm

* Food:

The dining hall has pretty good food but it is really crowded. Often times we just went to local restaurants around the school. Just explore and you will find places where you will frequent.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Socially it was a great experience. I met a lot of interesting international people. The stairs in front of the dorms were a great place to meet people. All of the trips were very engaging and fun. My favorite place in China that we visited was Yunnan.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

Our Resident Director does a good to to ensure that if you need medical attention that you do receive it. There is a western style hospital if there is a need for you to receive medical attention.

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? less than 100USD Everything in China is really cheap so it should not be hard to budget your money. If you go out to bars/clubs on the weekends expect to spend around 100-200rmb a week. If you travel to Shanghai expect to spend at least 600-800rmb for the entire trip. Food should not be a problem.
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? I did not have any unanticipated expenses.

Language

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? None
Language acquisition improvement?

Studying abroad allows you to learn more practical uses of the language. The professors do a good job at focusing on how to use vocabulary words.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • International Students