Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

An eye-opening and enlightening journey Past Review

By (Butler University) - abroad from 06/03/2019 to 06/29/2019 with

University of Bristol: Summer Schools

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned a lot about several different social justice issues: the legacy of slavery in Bristol, migration and refugees, pan-Africanism, anti-Semitism, etc. Each presentation on these issues was thoughtful and thorough and, like the best classes, left us with more questions than answers. I also gained practical knowledge on how to travel in a foreign country that I will be able to use in the future.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? None

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The program was full of thought-provoking material, and several graduate level research conferences that were very rigorous.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

Kathryn, Joanna, and Samya were amazing people to work with that made the transition to Bristol seamless. They provided me with ample support and reassurance, always answered my questions in a timely manner, and were great companions.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The dorm building was very well kept.

* Food:

The dining hall food was good, and the meals provided by the program were outstanding.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

The program focused on bringing my group out into the community to interact with Bristolians from different neighborhoods and backgrounds. Due to the multiple tours that our ambassador took us on, I felt very comfortable navigating the city.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

Bristol felt very safe overall, and our guides let us know which areas to avoid.

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

The Fulbright-University of Bristol program was everything a study abroad experience should be. Bristol is a vibrant city with an interesting culture, great food, and an emphasis on the arts. The program challenged my knowledge of the world and of myself, and it showed me that I am capable of much more than I ever imagined. I also was lucky enough to be on the program with 15 of the most amazing people I will likely ever meet who were dedicated, studious, and hilarious.

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? about $80 per week not including excursions separate from the program
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Don't buy all your souvenirs right away! You'll likely come across better and cheaper things throughout the trip. Also, I found that buying tea/coffee and a pastry each day got expensive, so maybe limit that to twice a 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
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Local 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?
  • Classes
  • Excursions
  • Friends
* What could be improved?
  • Time to reflect on experiences
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I now know that this program is so welcoming and collaborative. I wish I would have asked more questions and been more open.

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!