An Experience to bridge the gap between worlds Past Review

By (Holy Names University) - abroad from 08/30/2012 to 12/21/2012 with

Webster University: Study Abroad at Webster Leiden

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned first hand that the world is a very different place depending on what lens you look through. But that in fact its is more similar and beautiful than one could ever imagine. Studying in Leiden was like taking a step back in time thorough history, and taking a step into todays modern times. Both of which are valid and important, I cannot wait to return.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 1 month - 6 months

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The educational experience was one of the most wonderful aspects of the program. I was able to study my home country from an outside perspective rather than just by reading literature.

* 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?

I had the opportunity to join a Salsa dancing group and had a wonderful time with the friends I made and events I attended.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I had an issue but was able to see the doctor immediately. Since I had to pay a significant amount I felt as if the health care system is not so much different than It is financially here in the United States. I did however feel as if the prescriptions given were more effective.

* Safety:

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)

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $150
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Try and buy food that you can make for a week, such as soups. Since bread goes bad very easily try and share with a friend.

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

Although the program encouraged us to speak Dutch, in everyday life most people tended to speak english to many of us instead of Dutch which made it a lot harder to learn the language.

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? None
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Intermediate
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? French 2 in High school
How many hours per day did you use the language?
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? If you really what to learn Dutch listen to your cd and read daily even if it is just one story, it really helps. It is not a difficult language, but still takes time and dedication.

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

  • Americans
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 who came from all types of ethnic backgrounds and were culturally Dutch
  • The buildings from the 17th century
  • The Dutch Pancakes
* What could be improved?
  • Diversity within the Central College group
  • Better access to organizations within the country so that some may be able to volunteer or Intern
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I wish I had a better understanding of Dutch History. It is always better to know a little about a place before you enter.

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!

Individual Course Reviews

Course Name/Rating:

Globalization

Course Department: Political Science
Instructor: Dennis B.
Instruction Language: English
Comments: For myself, this class was not as challenging as it was an eye opener to the world around us. Dennis was very knowledgeable and well prepared. He allowed us to dive into our personal interests that are also important on a global scale such as Human trafficking and economic crisis. We were given the task of writing short 500 word essays which allowed us to focus specifically on a certain topic, and learn how to condense ideas. It was the turning point and guide that has led me to pursue a Masters in Cultural Studies with an emphasis on Globalization and Critical Race Theory.
Credit Transfer Issues: