Europe = Beautiful but America = My Home Past Review

By (Marketing., University of Northern Iowa) for

University of Northern Iowa: UNI Capstone in Four Countries

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Obviously there were some negaitves involved with the program but overall the experience is amazing and I know I will never get another chance like this again. I learned a lot about myself and others. This is definately a once in a lifetime experience with the way the program was set up, traveling with a group, and traveling to so many different spots. I enjoyed my program and know the memories will last forever.

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?

We all had to stay in the dorms. They were not as nice as the dorms at UNI but they were adequate. We were on the 4th floor and did not have an elevator so it was very difficult to carry all of our luggage up 5 flights of stairs. We did not have access to a dining center where food was paid for. We had to buy our own food so a lot of people went to a market and got a few groceries. The bathrooms were very unsanitary it seemed like. We had to bring our own toilet paper because it was not provided in the bathrooms.

* Food:

You are responsible for your own food so if you buy stuff you like then you should be satisfied. Be prepared to spend more money on food than you think tho.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Our program did not arrange specific attractions. The local students took us out and showed us around the town but we had a choice of whether to do those activities or not.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

The city at night can be kind of creepy. Just be smart and use common sense. Always go with at least one other person and know where you are going.

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)

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* 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? If you are okay with traveling A LOT then this program is for you. If you get bus sick I would not advice taking this as most of the traveling is done on a bus. If you are looking to travel and see new places this is perfect because we got to see and do so many things in just a few weeks. It was amazing.