An intensive program in a perfect location Past Review
By A student (Computer Science, Temple University) - abroad from 01/16/2015 to 05/09/2015 with
Yunnan University: Kunming - Direct Enrollment & Exchange
My language skills improved significantly during this program. I experienced life on my own in a foreign place with a fascinating culture. The location was the most ideal place, with locals who are always interested in meeting with you. It was absolutely worthwhile.
Personal Information
| How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | 2 weeks - 1 month |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
The workload was exceptionally difficult to handle, and the administration of the program weren't always easy to work with. Resources provided by the program were somewhat limited, but manageable. |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
The dorm building was a minute walk from the classroom building. Each dorm had two beds and a personal bathroom. |
| * Food: |
There were lots of restaurants right around the university, as well as the school's cafeteria. |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
I recommend putting forth extra effort outside of the program's schedule for any student who wants to be completely integrated. |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
There were no issues with safety in the city. |
| If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? |
Yes
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Finances
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* 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) |
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| Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? | 20 USD |
Language
| * Did your program have a foreign language component? | Yes |
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How much did the program encourage you to use the language?
0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language |
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| How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? | Beginner |
| 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? | First semester intermediate |
| 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? | The best way to improve language skills is to get out of the classroom and make friends with native speakers. It can be intimidating, but complete integration is the most effective way to improve. |
Other Program Information
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* Where did you live?
Select all that apply |
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* Who did you live with?
Select all that apply |
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* Who did you take classes with?
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| 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? |
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| * What could be improved? |
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| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | The level of workload will most likely be more intense than you are used to, but you have to remind yourself to get out and get those experiences outside of the classroom. |
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 Nearly Native or Trail BlazerCraving the most authentic experience possible, perhaps you lived with a host family or really got in good with the locals. You may have felt confined by your program requirements and group excursions. Instead, you'd have preferred to plan your own trips, even skipping class to conduct your own 'field work.' |
