Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

An Unpredictable, Exhilarating Adventure throughout Southeast Asia Past Review

By (Villanova) - abroad from 01/09/2013 to 05/04/2013 with

Villanova University: London or Singapore - Global Citizens Program

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
100% worthwhile. The program itself still has some kinks that need to be worked out. However, Singapore is a fantastic city and a great place to be for business. It is quite different from anything I'd ever experienced before. I gained a new appreciation for various cultures and gained a much greater understanding of global interactions.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 2 weeks - 1 month

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Classroom setting needs improvement. Classes are rigorous, but not overwhelming. All field trips were very beneficial.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

Very helpful, accomodating, and always available. Would have preferred more transparency and openness with the internship application process.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Great location. Comfortable living quarters, but nothing fancy.

* Food:

Singapore has a wide range of food options. Hawker centers are fabulous for a quick, cheap,, tasty meal. Groceries are not very expensive, and there are several nice restaurants to choose from as well.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I felt like I was able to integrate with the local culture very well, but largely through my own efforts. I would have preferred the program make a bit more effort to put the participants in contact with local people more.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I had no issues or experience with healthcare.

* Safety:

Singapore is the most safe city I have ever been too. I always felt very secure and comfortable and knew what resources to turn to if there were any issues.

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)

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
* 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?
  • Mix of classes and internship
  • Travel Opportunities
  • The city of Singapore and all the fun things to do and global people you meet
* What could be improved?
  • The classes: need a different classroom, more exposure to other students, and not as much time in class (lots of dead time and time wasted)
  • The internship application process - often seemed a little unclear
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Villanova does not cover transportation costs (MRT/bus system).

Reasons For Studying Abroad

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The Outright Urbanite
A social butterfly, you're happiest in bustling cities with hip people, and took advantage of all it had to offer. You enjoyed the nightlife, and had fun going out dancing, and socializing with friends. Fun-loving and dressed to the nines, you enjoyed discovering new restaurants, shops, cafes, and bars in your host country.