Capstone London Dublin and Cork Past Review

By (Accounting, University of Northern Iowa) for

University of Northern Iowa: Capstone in England and Ireland

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
This study abroad experience was able to allow me to become mroe cultured. You were able to not only get to interact with your professor/classmates, but with the locals as well. IT was a hands on learning experience. I came out learning more than I expected. We studied the themes in a way that was relevant and interesting. I was able to grow as a person and follow my dreams.

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.

I thought the homework/studying was very educational and a great learning experience. It was more hands on and interactive. I definitely learned a lot!

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

Our faculty leader did a wonderful job with allowing us to explor theses countries. He was very knowledgable about the history, the themes, and news. The size was perfect. My expectations on this trip were surpassed.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

This was my first time ever living in hostels, but from what I hear they were very nice. Sometimes the showers were small, but for the most part things were really nice! I did pack along towels and a robe, which proved to be very useful.

* Food:

Since we didn't travel anywhere that different, the food was normal. The only thing was it was way more expensive. We ate more McDonalds than I prefered.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Everything was a memorable cultural event. My favorite was listening to live music at the Irish Pubs. I also enjoyed seeing the changing of the guards in London because it is such a long tradition.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

One of the people on my trip was cut by a pint glass. The pub had a first aid kit, but no sanitary wipes. The cab driver also did not have the first aid kit he thought he had. When we got to our hostel, they were able to provide us with a first aid kit, including bandaids and wipes.

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)

Language

If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition?

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Hostel
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans

A Look Back

* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Pack light, you will buy lots of stuff. Ask people what they would want before you go. Send post cards early! Have comfortable shoes. Buy a cheap adaptor. Bring a couple towels. Have cute clothes that are versatile for both day/night.