Most people COULD speak English, but of course would have preferred not to. Past Review

By (Electrical Engineering Technology, Oklahoma State University - Stillwater) for

University of Iceland: Reykjavík - Direct Enrollment & Exchange

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
It was worthwhile definitely. I grew so much as an individual. I went through quite a bit emotionally and physically that put me to the test, and I did not have the support or help on hand of people closest to me. I learned that you can never fully plan for what's to come. Life will be faced with many challenges, and the mindset that you have when approaching these challenges determines the outcome.

Personal Information

If you took classes at multiple universities, list those universities here: University Of Iceland
The term and year this program took place: Fall 2009

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The brochure said that the country would teach courses in English but was no specific on which courses, nor was our administration helpful in deciphering such infomation. The courses were taught in Icelandic, which therefore added an inconvinience to my educational experience. Workload was ok, the teaching method was uninvolved, and seemed very distant.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

Teachers were not accessible and seemed somewhat annoyed at my lack of knowledge for their language. My expectations when it came to the schooling was not met. I was not expecting the day-to-day challenges presented in regard to language or just finding help.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I had a great time learning abou peope from all ove the world. The room was satisfactory and the upkeep of the fascilities were also satisfactory.

* Food:

Food was fine. Learned how to cook while abroad which enriched me personally as well.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Many events and opportunities to socialize wit students within the dorms. There were also various trips that people within the housing took. Also, the engineering department I was a part of took field trips as well. I had may opportunities to see more of the country.

* Safety:

There were a few instances where I did not feel 100% safe, but otherwise I made sure I stayed out of trouble.

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? No

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)

Language

Language acquisition improvement?

I practiced language with my tutor. I needed to use the language when it came to decoding the notes. Most people COULD speak enlish, but of course would have perferred not to.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
  • Dorm
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • International Students
  • Americans
  • International Students
  • Americans

A Look Back

* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Ask more questions than you think you need to. I asked many questions and still came up short on a lot of info.