Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

An incredible eye-opening experience which allowed me to grew personally. Past Review

By (BIOLOGICAL AND BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES., Wellesley College) - abroad from 02/17/2014 to 06/20/2014 with

University of Otago, New Zealand: Study Abroad Programme

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learn a new way of living and gained a better understanding of what people value. I realized that I take many things for granted but developed a new appreciation for those things. I was able to explore new territories and create lasting friendships.

Review Photos

University of Otago: Dunedin - Direct Enrollment/Exchange Photo

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 6 months+

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Overall, lectures were interesting and challenging.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Flats had terrible insulation and internet connection would often fail.

* Food:

Flats cooked their own meals.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

It was not as different as American culture so it was not difficult to adapt.

* 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)

Expenses would vary weekly since electricity and personal expenses varied.

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $75
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Purchase seasonal fruits and vegetables as well as items on sale. Limit the time spent on electrical equipment if it is a separate cost.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Other
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • Americans
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

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

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • educational variety
  • university events
  • ability to travel around the country
* What could be improved?
  • student housing
  • social events for international students and local students
  • opportunities for students to meet classmates
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Prices are higher so it is important to buy essentials first. Since classes are big, it is more difficult to meet classmates. Also, flatting in a house as opposed to a complex makes it more difficult to meet other students.

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 Academic or Linguist
You went abroad with specific academic goals in mind; the program credentials and rigor of your coursework abroad were very important to you. You had a great time abroad, but never lost sight of your studies and (if applicable) were diligent with your foreign language study. Good for you!