University of Reading (RDG)

I came from America, so I just needed to cope with the accent and a couple of variations (queue-line, lift-elevator, mobile phone-cell phone), and overall, it was no problem.

England is very expensive, so it is key to spend money on what you have to spend. When you are travelling, do not pay 15 pounds for a meal when you can spend 8 (that is 13 dollar difference!) A pound is $1.60, so always think how much it is yu are spending in dollars!

Do everything your host university tells you to do. I got a huge packet at Rutgers and had a study abroad orientation there. The main reason you are going to another country is academics, so make sure that is your first priority! Take less classes than you do at your host university, so you can have more fun on your experience (travel, nightlife). Make sure you have enough money saved up, the more you have, the more fun you will have! Be responsible and have fun!

The housing overall was good. I had my own room, unlike in my 3.5 years at Rutgers and ushers would clean my room every day. The hall was clean and had various events, such as Christmas dance, boat cruise, and soccer matches. Unfortunately, we had to pay a lot of money for thos events and for the printer, which still does not work (I came back in May to see my friends and it did not work). Another negative is food, but food is usually bad at all university halls. Overall, housing was good.

Best food-Istanbul grill-amazing kebobs and pizza Best place to see-Eiffel Tower, assuming that everything is OK after the smoke Most convenient night life-student union-no hassle, low cost