Study abroad

Revision as of 21:52, November 13, 2005 by 137.165.213.65 (talk) (Spain)

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Countries

Opinions on the places that Williams Students have studied in the past.

England

Probably the best academic experience you'll find abroad. Fun pub scene, more penetrable cultural barriers, and a great place to explore Europe from.

Consider all your options before setting your heart on Williams-Exeter. The programme is fun and convenient, but it's also pretty selective and offers less of a chance for immersion.

Ireland

Like England and Scotland but with even better pubs and accents! In addition to the friendly and fun-loving people (who love Americans) the cultural experience can't be beat. They're proud of their traditional Irish music, dancing, and native Irish language--still the primary language spoken in parts of the country. Ireland is fascinating and beautiful; easy to explore through public transportation with cheap youth hostels in every town.

Expect rain.

Scotland

Like England, but so much cooler. The people are nicer and have awesome accents and the whole country oozes character. Get your culture and pub-hopping fixes in Edinburgh and Glasgow and then head to the Highlands for some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world.


Spain

Easily the awesomest place ever--especially Barcelona. Madrid is alright, but I mean, really, Barcelona has the beach and the more attractive people. Barcelona is one of the most walkable cities in Spain, a bit frenchy but everything is just right. Also, it doesn't help that Real Madrid sucks.

Note: this is clearly a partisan battle between those who went to Madrid and those who went to Barcelona. Seems like everyone's happy with the place s/he went. (People have also loved Sevilla, Granada, and Salamanca!) Also, Barcelona apparently has the highest petty crime rate in Europe. Do you want to study abroad and get mugged? I thought not--I would guess you'd feel terrible. (Your dad would too.)

Regardless, go abroad to Spain and have the time of your life. Spain is kind of like the poor, lazy, and proud little brother of the rest of developed Europe. Also, lots and lots of Ham in Madrid - especially greasy-spoon-style at the Museo del Jamon, a chain restaurant that has hunks of pig hanging in the window. Hot.

Japan

THE BEST. Who wants to go to Europe!?!? The culture is fascinating, and the food is amazing!

Italy

La vita bella, great wine, gorgeous countryside, best food, and probably the most beautiful language ever spoken. Quality of life is not an issue here, the Italians believe first and foremost that life is to be enjoyed with family and friends and good food!

Also, Siena is the best city in Italy, and can kick Firenze's butt at soccer any day.

Programs

Study abroad programs, including those that are local or involve travel to multiple countries.

Williams-Mystic

Live in Connecticut across from the Mystic Seaport Museum, get to know 20 students and 5 professors really well, get college credit for sailing and going to California -- what could be better than that?