Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Replenishing, refreshing, rewarding, humbling, and eyeopening. Past Review

By (PSYCHOLOGY., University of Wisconsin - LaCrosse) - abroad from 01/07/2014 to 07/22/2014 with

University of Wisconsin La Crosse: Ecuador - Building Bridges in Bunche / Service Learning Program to Ecuador

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
YES!!!

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 0-2 weeks

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

We learned a lot about culture, diversity, and how lucky and privileged we are.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* Food:

I am a vegetarian, and it worked out just fine! everyone is VERY accommodating!

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Completely! I felt a part of all of their families, and lived within the village that taught us a lot about the culture.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

Be careful!

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)

Everything is very low priced

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
How much did the program encourage you to use the language?

0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language

Everywhere!

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? Intermediate
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Advanced
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? 3 semesters in college, and 5 in high school
How many hours per day did you use the language? 10+
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? Just immerse yourself when you are there!

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Hotel
  • Hostel
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • International Students
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Other
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?
  • the people
  • the weather
  • the culture
* What could be improved?
  • organization
  • length-wish it was longer!!
  • nothing!
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Bring more socks!