Sussex/Brighton was a great experience; lots of culture, independence, and fun Past Review

By (Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology., Clark University - Worcester) - abroad from 01/14/2013 to 06/14/2013 with

University of Sussex: Brighton - Direct Enrollment & Exchange

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Definitely a worthwhile experience, it was difficult in the beginning because there was about three days of orientation and then you are completely on your own, but I would definitely do it again. While it does not sound like the typical study abroad experience, I had a great time at in Brighton, there is so much to between pubs, the pier, seafront, north laines, concerts, and the fringe festival. I had a great time with the international students, and enjoyed the classes. I would definitely recommend going, but you have to overcome not having any guidance and feeling a little lost in the beginning.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 2 weeks - 1 month

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Very independent, intelligent specialized lecturers.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

Administration was very friendly and responded quickly and helpfully to all emails.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I got the dorm I requested (East Slope) and it worked out well for me, however it was in worse conditions and more loud than described on the site.

* Food:

I rarely ate on campus because there is no meal plan-- the kitchens were nice and the co-op is a good place to buy food temporarily, but would be too expensive to use as one's main grocery store.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I was not that integrated because I happened to be in a dorm with all international students, and it was difficult to meet people in large lecture classes. However, it was easy to get into Brighton and we went most days.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Because I was only there for 5 months, I had to pay a lot if I wanted to use the on campus health services. However, there are free clinics in Brighton which I used twice. This is more of a hassle, but free.

* Safety:

Both the campus and Brighton felt very safe.

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)

It costs 3 pounds to get a bus day ticket, or 10 for the week pass, and the conversion rate is not very good. It costs a lot to really immerse yourself and do a lot. The amount of alcohol you drink is a large factor and part of the culture.

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

  • International Students
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • Americans
  • International Students

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Brighton
* What could be improved?
  • Integration with the local students
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? How independent it is.