Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

An exploration through other cultures Past Review

By (Computer Science, Wellesley College) - abroad from 09/02/2013 to 12/20/2013 with

University College Dublin: Dublin - Direct Enrollment & Exchange

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I had an amazing time in Ireland. I learned so much about responsibility, independence, and myself. My time abroad also gave me a new appreciation for my family, Wellesley, and the opportunities that I have had in life.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 0-2 weeks

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

There was a lot more independent learning at UCD compared to Wellesley. There were few homework assignments, and a lot of independent reading.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* Food:

I lived in an un-catered residence, so I cooked for myself

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I didn't interact at all.

* 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)

I decided to do a lot of independent traveling, so this contributed to the cost.

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? 100
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Book tickets with as much time in advance as possible, and try not to spend too much money out in bars, pubs, or restaurants- it can add up quickly.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No
How much did the program encourage you to use the language?

0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language

I took an Introduction to Irish class with other study abroad students. The class was optional

Direct Enrollment/Exchange

* Did you study abroad through an exchange program or did you directly enroll in the foreign university? Direct Enrollment

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
  • Apartment
  • Hostel
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

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

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • Americans
  • 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?
  • There were organized trips we could join in on
  • We weren't required to stay connected with the study abroad office (check-ins or meetings)
  • I met so many great international friends
* What could be improved?
  • Trips were sometimes not advertised very well
  • Trips would fill up quickly
  • More city activities throughout the semester would have been great
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I wish I had planned better, financially. I spent a lot of money on travel, food, going out, and souvenirs. I think I would have planned better and been more cautious about spending my money had I just thought about it more before hand.

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 Outright Urbanite
A social butterfly, you're happiest in bustling cities with hip people, and took advantage of all it had to offer. You enjoyed the nightlife, and had fun going out dancing, and socializing with friends. Fun-loving and dressed to the nines, you enjoyed discovering new restaurants, shops, cafes, and bars in your host country.