Not a day goes by during which I don't reminisce about my summer at the University of Cambridge Past Review

By (Neurobiology, Harvard University) for

University of Cambridge, Pembroke College: Cambridge - Direct Enrollment & Exchange

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
It was extremely worth it. I am enamored by England and Europe, and it changed my perspective on education.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 1 month - 6 months

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The workload was manageable and fair, the teaching methods made me fall in love with the subject at hand. The differences in the educational system in Britain from the American system. My favorite part of the British system, particularly in the University of Cambridge were the seminars during which we could directly interact with the professor- the quality of conversation and discovery of knowledge re-ignited my love for learning. This is not always the case in American universities in which most seminars are taught by TFs.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

There was good accessibility, they were fairly efficient in getting things, and provided numerous opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* Food:

Great accommodation of vegetarian preferences.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Scotland trip, formal halls, london trips, cream teas.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

Good safety, Cambridge is pretty lively in the evenings.

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)

Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? You might want to set aside money for the london trips- buy a network railcard there, otherwise each trip is expensive. Also, you might run out of food money at the dining hall, so be sure to set aside some money for groceries at Sainsbury's.

Language

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

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

  • Americans
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • social opportunities
  • phenomenal classes
* What could be improved?
  • Food allocation
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Immerse yourself. Take advantage of every opportunity.