Expect the Unexpected Past Review

By (English Literature (British and Commonwealth)., The University of Texas at Austin) - abroad from 09/19/2013 to 12/30/2013 with

University of Sussex: Brighton - Direct Enrollment & Exchange

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I gained independence more than anything abroad. I definitely think it was worthwhile to get that experience.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? None

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* 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? No

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

  • Other
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • International Students
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Local 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?
  • Meeting my housemates.
* What could be improved?
  • How professors abroad interact with making Exchange students feel a bit more comfortable.
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? It is a lot harder than it seems to go away for an entire semester. People were very kind, but there was also an anti-American feel at times, and I wish I'd been more prepared for that.

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!