A Trip of a Lifetime! Past Review

By (Management: Business Admin, University of Northern Iowa) for

University of Northern Iowa: Traveling - UNI Capstone in London and Paris

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
It was totally worthwhile. I can say I gained a lot of independence and responsibility while being on the trip. You are so far away from home in countries that you have never been to and you have to be mindful of that. You cant just call up your mom or dad and ask for help when you need it! I also had to make sure I had enough money to last me the whole trip, which can be somewhat of a challenge with the exchange rates and such.

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.

N/A

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

N/A

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

When we were abroad we stayed in hostels in which I shared a room which 6-7 other girls in my class. At both of our hostels you needed to buy towels, so definately bring one along in your suitcase! Also remember shower shoes!

* Food:

The food was very good!

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

As a girl I would not travel alone, especially at night! Always walk with a group of people just to be precautious.

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

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes

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? I would say that if you have the chance to study abroad, then do it. From my perspective, it is 100 percent worth your time and money! I believe anyone would benefit from this program; it was a wonderful experience to see the world outside of the United States. While abroad, I gained a lot of new friendships with people that were on the trip with me, which was also a plus.