Fun, but not worth it. Past Review

By (Actuarial Science., University of Northern Iowa) - abroad from 07/28/2014 to 08/12/2014 with

University of Northern Iowa: Literature in Ireland Capstone

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I didn't really take much away from this program. I learned that travelling in groups is very hard to do.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 0-2 weeks

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:

Not many options other than pub food.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Did not have much exposure to the local culture.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

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)

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $300

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
  • Hostel
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with? 0

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • The scenery
  • Inishbofin
* What could be improved?
  • Less work after returning
  • Smaller group
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? How similar the US and Ireland are

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 Nearly Native or Trail Blazer
Craving the most authentic experience possible, perhaps you lived with a host family or really got in good with the locals. You may have felt confined by your program requirements and group excursions. Instead, you'd have preferred to plan your own trips, even skipping class to conduct your own 'field work.'