One of the best experiences of my life! Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The program was much more difficult than I had anticipated. This was due to the fact that I was not used to the university system in the UK. Personally, I found the courses just as difficult as those at my home school, but they were hard in different ways. In the UK, there is much greater emphasis on independent study and learning, which is hard to keep up with as an American student who is both not used to the system and is trying to simultaneously explore the city while attending school.

On-site administration of your program

Registration is a pain. You need courses approved by multiple departments to both enroll in them and switch to other courses. Administration was helpful but slow to respond to emails.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I lived in Campbell House, which had relatively poor facilities compared to many other halls. However, the fact that the hall was on-campus made up for it.

Not relevant since I lived in an uncatered hall. However, it was easy to buy groceries at a reasonable price. When eating out, you can find cuisine from every country in the world. You have to go through a lot of trial and error to find the best eateries, but once you do, it's definitely worth it.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

It was hard to get to know British students (who aren't 1st years), as I was only there for one term, and the lectures I attended were very large. Don't expect to become super British after coming home. London is cosmopolitan city. Cultures from all over the world are represented here. You will encounter British culture but not the extent that you would in a small town.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Not applicable since I was not sick at all during the term.

I felt very safe on campus. Off campus, take general precautions against pickpocketers to avoid the rare chance that you do encounter one. However, they're really not a huge threat despite what you might hear.

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

As you probably already know, London is a very expensive city. Budget your money by prioritizing what you want to do with it. Try not to eat out all the time (unless your goal is to try as many restaurants as possible), as you will run out of money very quickly. Take advantage of student discounts. Consider walking around central London more instead of always using the Tube or bus. You'll get to know the city much better and save some money in the process!

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• Dorm

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• Local Students
• Americans
• International Students

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• Local Students
• Americans
• International Students

• Location in central London
• Friends

• Academic system (though I don't think this can be changed since this is the way it is in the UK)
• Registration
• Living facilities

The Avid Adventurer