Amazing Year Past Review

By (Political Science, Economics, Wellesley College) - abroad from 09/22/2013 to 06/15/2013 with

University of Oxford - Visiting Students

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Yes, I made great friends and had a fulfilling academic experience.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 1 month - 6 months

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Don't just apply for the prestige. You have to be the type of student that enjoys independent study and learning one-on-one with a professor, and churning out essays in short spans of time. Those that thrived in classroom settings or didn't like academic writing did not enjoy the program, those that did loved it.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The rooms are small, and the building is very industrial, but you get a single. It's not the best accommodation in the world, but it's liveable and I really didn't mind it.

* Food:

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

This really could have been improved, since housing was mostly with other Americans it was more difficult to integrate.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I was able to access healthcare easily and quickly.

* Safety:

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? No

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • Americans
  • International Students
* 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?

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Intellectual atmosphere
  • Welcoming friends
  • Great city
* What could be improved?
  • Integration with locals
  • Living expenses can be costly
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Pack LOTS of winter clothes and umbrellas.

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!