Past Review

By (biopsych, Tufts University) for

Tufts Programs Abroad: Tufts in London

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
It was worthwhile.

Personal Information

The term and year this program took place: Full-Year 2005

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Tufts in London was a wonderful program. Granted, the program director has changed since I spent my year abroad there, but I don't doubt that they found a replacement just as capable of ensuring that every last detail is taken care of during your stay abroad. We really had a "mother" away from home with Tufts. They were great. They organized group outings once a month or more, where you could go with fellow Tufts students to check out museums, plays, and the sights of London at a discounted price.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

If the program is anything like how it was when I went (granted that was in 2005-2006), you will not be in more capable hands. They really do take good care of you. Very accessible. Stop in administrator's office at any time to ask questions.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

John Dodgson FOR THE WIN!!! Do not live anywhere else. You might be tempted, because you will hear things like, "oh, Dodgson is full of Americans, I want to immerse myself in the culture and live among Brits." I say, Dodgson has a fine selection of Brits, if you care to extend yourself. You may have to look a little harder, but easily done. And well worth it, considering Dodgson is the newest dorm (ooo shiny). AND you have a single. That's right. No more putting up with your roomie's snoring. AAAAND you have your own bathroom. How cool is that!? Your own shower/sink/the works. Cool! That or i'm just easily excited. The desk comes with lights too. No desk lamp needed. They are cool wrap around desks. And there are elevators. And a computer lab in the basement (well, that last bit not so integral because you have your laptop in your room with wireless). But seriously, pick Dodgson. It is right by Kings Cross St. Pancras station. 10 minute walk from campus. Starbucks and pizza place around the corner. Close to a grocery store. A theater. <br /><br /> My above comments say it all. I was living in the middle of London, for a great price. This is arranged through Tufts. They will ask you what dorm. You can request which one.

* Food:

But that low rating is only because I can't cook. I've no one to blame but myself, hahah. If you have cooking skillz, I'm sure you'll do fine. There are no meal halls. You get an allowance from the Tufts in London program though. It's a weekly sum of 90 pounds that you can use on food. And that's usually more than enough. You even are left with extra to spend on Christmas gifts or whatever.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I think you have to make an effort to interact with your fellow Brit students. If you don't, they won't approach you.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

I didn't get sick. But we had health insurance through Tufts. My friend once had to be rushed to the hospital and they saw her no questions asked at 3 am. Treat now, pay later. I think they have universal health care over there. The city is mostly safe....i was flashed once walking home. But that was at 11 pm at night. And this was one occurrence for an entire year spent there. Not too bad. I heard of no crime incidents in the neighborhood.

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? Don't recall specifics. As I mentioned earlier, Tufts gives you a weekly allowance that certainly helps.
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? no input

Language

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

Well, they speak English there. So, my language skills didn't change much. But I did pick up a lot of british slang, and refine my accent, which is always good times.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students

A Look Back

* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? DO IT. TUFTS IN LONDON. DO IT.