Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Expanded my horizons and grew up in the process Past Review

By (Wellesley College) - abroad from 10/01/2017 to 06/16/2017 with

University of Oxford - Visiting Students

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
The education system taught me self motivation in a way that only Oxford could. It's almost the complete opposite of American uni's and definitely something worth trying. You learn alot about yourself as you go through the program

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.

Oxford has a unique and engaging academic system. It can be difficult to adjust to since it requires far more independent study and is less structured (particularly for visiting students) than what most American students are used to. Frankly speaking, resources beyond lecture notes were practically nonexistent.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The rooms were clean and modern, with ensuites in my building. They were regularly cleaned.

* Food:

The city itself has multiple options for food (different cuisines and price points). The food served on site was typical college food.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with 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? 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)

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $25-30
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Make sure you know how to cook some simple and cheap food. Events here are pricey (balls, food, even talks), so plan wisely.

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
* 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?
  • Independence
  • Free Lectures on anything you could think of
  • The people
* What could be improved?
  • Tutorial system for maths students
  • Lack of academic resources
  • Integration with locals
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I wish I'd known that I would get essentially no help on any assignment and my entire schedule was self structured. That I would be living alongside regular third years (finalists) as well.

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 Networker
An active student leader, it was important for you to network abroad as well. Once overseas, you sought out student clubs, volunteered with local organizations, or attended community events. You encouraged your friends join you, and often considered how you could reflect your international experiences in a resume.