Where diversity meets similarities. Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

I'm a returning undergraduate student whose not only studied abroad for high school and college, but also travelled extensively. I've spent one 8 week term with Webster thus far, and I could stay that there's always something more to learn or discover not only inside the classroom, but also outside. As an american student, I would say to don't lose track of your purpose here...You're here to learn, so keep a balance and don't neglect your studies completely to travel, party, and ride on elephants...because you're still getting graded. Your classmates aren't all english native speakers, so its a given that the lecturer will structure a lot of their lessons in a way that everyone could understand the lesson too. Lecturers are aware of their students being esl students. Depending on your pace of studies and level of english...it could be challenging or it could be slow...I wouldn't say it's the course is very demanding or difficult as long as you follow instructions. It's important to understand the general idea. Classroom size are small which gives more open discussion, and lecturers are easy to reach. Students body are generally all pretty laidback and a friendly bunch. Just stay focused and remember to have a balance between work and play, as you are in Thailand.

On-site administration of your program

I haven't been here long enough to be the best person to give a constructive criticism and I won't make a generalization to the whole. Some staff do the best of their abilities for the students and to represent Webster with pride, but I do feel that's just a small number. The rest need reality check as it feels like they have lost sight of what their role and responsibilities are.. and what they're being paid for. As there's a heavy emphasis of this University being American accredited in SE Asia, I would expect that a tuition fee relatively higher than the local universities, would also provide more of an American-based standard or at least heart, thought, attention, and sense of duty for their students. There's always room for improvement and change...but this is my current impression after one semester.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

You would be staying in serviced condos, each with a pool. Nothing to complain about, the rooms are comfortable, have a fridge, wifi, and hot shower...but I would recommend buying a fan, as the rooms AC unit uses a lot of electricity not to end up with a ridiculous utility bill. There's some hidden fees that pop out of nowhere once you moved in to places like compulsary cleaning service. Locations are far from the hustle bustle and eats, and you would be relatively dependent on Webster buses. Make use of delivery service menus when you see one.

Yummy.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Easygoing. Laidback. Friendly. If you're mental clock is always running...it will indefinitely slow down....pace of life here is slow. So be patient if things don't go the way you expect it to. It will get there...eventually and go with the flow.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

You get an AIA group insurance that you can use. Most people from abroad come over to thailand for the cheap health care and quality service. It's pretty all right.

It's a safe and friendly beach town. If you're stomach is too clean, then I wouldn't add ice to any of your drinks or eating sushi on the street.

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

$320/month. Keep in mind most dishes are like $1-$5. Most of the costs come out from transportation if you want to get around, or beer if you want to socialize.

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

Most Thais are used to foreigners...but it helps to pick it up.

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