Great stay, great learning experience, lovely hosts! Past Review

By (University of Pittsburgh - Pittsburgh) - abroad from 03/03/2017 to 03/11/2017 with

University of Pittsburgh: Global Research Practicum in Asia, Hosted by the Asia Institute

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
It was worthwhile. I gained personal experience by learning a lot about people and cultures. Academically I learned a lot through all the on-site visits.

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.

The GRP program was designed with the Asia Institute so that we graduate students get an insightful trip to China. During my stay, I learned a lot about Chinese businesses through all the fascinating company visits as well as about Chinese culture through elements of interaction with students and a lecture at one university in Beijing. Very great resources and academically rich.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The Asia Institute did a great job in organizing the whole trip in China. It was well planned and a diverse spectrum of activities.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The choice of the hotels was perfect for graduate students. Really nice rooms and a great variety for breakfast options. All great!

* Food:

The Asia Institute enabled us to enjoy a variety of food. Different restaurants were suitable in any location as well as the individual choices on certain days allowed even more freedom.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

As we travelled in a group, integration was not as much. However, being able to have two students as our tour guides, gave me the opportunity to get engaged with them to learn more about the local culture. The two students were highly engaged and the best hosts one could wish.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

No issues with health care.

* Safety:

Both cities seemed safe and thus, there is no need for advice. Being attentive while walking through streets is a basic for any kind of travel.

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

I would choose this program again because it gave me the opportunity to gain insights into the Chinese business world.

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)

Through the organization of the Asia Institute, my costs were minimal and mainly related to personal spendings. I think, Asia is a great place to travel being a Westerner on a low budget.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Hotel
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
* 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?
  • Business On-Site Visits
  • Hosts of the Asia Institute
  • Insight into Chinese Culture
* What could be improved?
  • Timing of the Schedule
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I knew enough because great information was provided.

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.