Study abroad at University of Glamorgan Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The academics were much different than that here at USD. I learned more broadly about the field of Psychology. There was more outside readings that students were responsible for but not tested on. The classes were a full year rather than a semester. This helped me engage more with the subject and get to know my professors better. There are also seminars which are smaller groups of your lectures where you learn to apply your lectures in a small group. Exams were at the end of the year, and were all essay. Overall it was a very rewarding academic experience.

On-site administration of your program

I gained a much broader view of psychology as well as developed my own ideas more than I do back at USD. It challenged me more not only because it was an unfamiliar system, but also because it was much more challenging material. The weaknesses would include that the students learning is really in their hands. Students must attend classes and do much of the outside work to gain good marks.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I loved living in halls. I lived in a flat with four other people. We had our own rooms and bathrooms, and shared a kitchen. The only downside of the housing was that the kitchen was not always clean because students didn't clean up after themselves. There also wasn't a common room for all of us to hang out. This meant we didn't have a space to share and get to hang out in.

I missed many things from home, but also found many different foods that I enjoyed. I very rarely ate on campus, I chose to cook in my flat. However I did find ordering groceries online very helpful because carrying groceries up the hill to my flat was horrible!

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

The University had wonderful International Student Support. There were many gatherings to get us to socialize and get to know one another. I also worked at the Student Union as a Bartender. This helped me to engage with all students.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Because we were in the UK for more than six months we were covered under their National Health Service. I never had any major problems, but I did go to the doctor for a cold and to the dentist to replace a filling. Both were inexpensive and very helpful, almost moreso than here at home. I always felt safe, even while traveling. I always used precaution and traveled with people I could trust.

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

My writing improved throughout the year and I also became much more well spoken.