Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Fun! Past Review

By (Neurobiology, Neurosciences, Wellesley College) - abroad from 09/17/2015 to 01/22/2016 with

University of Bristol: Bristol - Direct Enrollment & Exchange

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned a lot about English culture, which I think was worthwhile. I also started a new sport, so that was nice.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 2 weeks - 1 month

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* Food:

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

It was a bit confusing at the time with the NHS vs. private US insurance, but I think that I figured it out.

* Safety:

I had no problems

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

I had a really good time. I liked that Bristol was a large enough city and university that I had opportunities, but I was comfortable enough to not be overwhelmed.

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? I was in a catered hall, so including the meal plan I spent about $150 each week

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

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
* 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?
  • The people
  • The classes
  • The culture
* What could be improved?
  • Study abroad student support (there was very little communication with the Study Abroad Office)
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I wish I'd known that the University of Bristol is actually a very well-regarded school in England. Also England is expensive. And that when they tell you the weather in England is terrible, they aren't joking.

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 Academic or Linguist
You went abroad with specific academic goals in mind; the program credentials and rigor of your coursework abroad were very important to you. You had a great time abroad, but never lost sight of your studies and (if applicable) were diligent with your foreign language study. Good for you!