Program Reviews

Before coming to Korea, I was a picky eater. However, given a unique situation and a positive mindset towards new experiences, I tried new foods and enjoyed eating seafood for the first time.
If you're unsure about studying abroad in Korea, you should go for it and enjoy the experience of being in a new country. I explored a new culture and ate fresh foods I would never find in the US for a lower price. I recommend checking out night markets, new districts, and social media to find hidden restaurants serving unique foods. Overall, this program has provided me with the opportunity to discover new things and given me an experience that I will never forget.

Going to J.F. Oberlin University was incredible. I had an amazing time. Classes were interesting and engaging, and the social scene was great. Something to note is that it is easier to join clubs and activities in the spring semester, as that’s the beginning of the school year in Japan. One thing I really liked about J.F. Oberlin was that it was located in Machida, which was a little calmer than central Tokyo, but still close enough to make frequent day trips into Tokyo. Machida is definitely a less touristy place than most big Tokyo sights, but the calmness of it really helped me feel like I wasn’t just living in Japan as a tourist, but that I was living in a place where other people lived their day-to-day lives.

I really enjoyed all the cultural outings that TEAN put together. However, there was a slight issue with communication with TEAN while in Japan. If you’re someone who suspects that you might need quite a bit of extra support, this may not be an ideal program. But for those who are very independent, this may work great for you. Or, if you’re a really independent person, direct exchange might actually be a good way to go.

I went to UC for Forestry, as the school is well known for the program, and I am so glad I did. The classes were very interesting, and I felt completely welcomed as an international student, as many professors accommodated for lack of prior knowledge of the area by taking time with me to help me understand the land I was now living in. As for the program, I was able to meet some great people who have already moved into the status of life-long friends. I was able to go all around the South Island and see some of the most beautiful sights in the world, and some were already included in the program. Whether it was boating on the Milford Sound or sea-kayaking with dolphins and penguins, my experience was nothing less than extraordinary. Our advisor was super helpful and provided us with great support and recommendations as we went through the semester. I had the time of my life, and I would recommend it to anyone!

My experience in Singapore was absolutely amazing! Singapore is a beautiful, clean, safe country that was so much fun to explore. Everyone I met there was so nice and welcoming, and I never wanted to leave. Getting to study at SMU was especially great, because the location of the school is so central and conveniently located. Not only that, but the students have so much passion and excitement for their school, that even as an exchange student I felt welcomed and like a real, valuable member of the SMU community.

Plus, Singapore offers an amazing chance to explore surrounding countries in Southeast Asia! I got to visit so many countries that I never would have had a chance to visit otherwise in my life, and I am so grateful to have been able to experience so many unique and diverse cultures. I definitely recommend this program to anyone looking to get out of their comfort zone and try something new!

Singapore captivated me completely! I wouldn't change a single aspect of my experience there. The convenience of traveling to neighboring Asian countries was one of the unexpected highlights, allowing me to explore the region with ease. I was constantly impressed by Singapore's exceptional cleanliness and security, which created an environment where I could fully enjoy my passion for cycling - even late at night without any safety concerns. These four months were truly the most transformative period of my life so far. The connections I formed and the experiences I shared have left an indelible mark on me. While I deeply miss the friends who became like family during my time abroad, I carry our memories close to my heart and remain confident that our paths will cross again someday. Singapore wasn't just a destination - it became a second home that I'll always cherish.

Living in Japan truly changed my entire outlook on life. Before studying abroad in Tokyo, I had never left the United States, so to travel 7000 miles away from home was a huge leap of faith. However, I built a second home in Japan with my dorm, friends, teammates, and classmates. Being immersed in my culture and meeting my family there was incredibly rewarding, and I grew so much as a person and a student. Studying abroad takes you out of your comfort zone and pushes you to take chances you never would have at home. Japan is so safe, forgiving, and welcoming, I'm so glad I chose to study there!

Studying abroad in Thailand with TEAN was truly a life-changing experience that I will cherish forever. It pushed me far out of my comfort zone and helped me grow in ways I never imagined. Living in a completely different culture made me more adaptable, and it opened my eyes to the beauty of diversity. I not only gained valuable academic knowledge but also learned so much about myself and the world around me.

As a friend and daughter, I became more patient, understanding, and empathetic after interacting with people from all over the world. I learned how to embrace differences, listen more attentively, and create meaningful connections. I became a better listener, which made me appreciate the relationships I have with my friends and family even more.

This journey also sparked my love for travel. I now feel more confident and excited about exploring new places, trying new things, and immersing myself in unfamiliar environments. I now have a greater sense of independence and self-assurance that I can take with me throughout my life.

Academically, my experience in Thailand motivated me to strive for excellence in my studies. I realized the importance of education, especially when it comes to understanding the world from a global perspective. I became more focused, driven, and determined to make the most out of my academic opportunities.

Most importantly, studying abroad with TEAN in Thailand transformed me into a more worldly and open-minded individual. I came back home with a deeper understanding of global issues and the unique perspectives of people around the world. It truly changed my life in ways that go beyond what words can express, and I will forever be thankful for this incredible experience. If you ever have the chance, I highly recommend studying abroad with TEAN in Thailand – it’s an experience you will never forget.

Participating in the Korea University Summer Program was one of the best life decisions I've ever made. For one, this experience made me more independent and self-confident. Stepping out of my comfort zone to try new things and navigate through many obstacles such as language barriers and culture shocks allowed me to grow proud of myself and be more confident that I can accomplish more in my future travel journeys. The cultural activities hosted both by TEAN and Korea University made the trip even more special. Some activities include a weekend trip to Busan, a day trip to Lotte World, and attending a baseball game with other students. All the activities I engaged in allowed me to embrace Korean culture and learn about its history in a non-intimidating way. Making connections with different types of people was also a highlight of this experience. I made connections and new friendships with Korean locals and students of different cultural backgrounds. They allowed me to develop connections with Korean locals and other abroad students. Everyone I met along the way was super welcoming and made my study abroad journey even more exciting. If you’re looking for a summer or a short-term study abroad program, I highly recommend this one!

Studying abroad in Thailand was genuinely the best decision I ever made. If you are looking for an experience completely different from what everyone else is doing...go to Thailand! Almost every single weekend I was able to travel to different places within Southeast Asia. I went to a total of six countries while I was there and it was actually so easy to travel and get around. From planes to trains to buses to ferries, all modes of transportation are so close and can take you wherever you need to go! Also, the university you attend isn't placed at the heart of the city so you have the chance to escape the busyness every once in a while! No, your apartment will not have a kitchen, but that is never a problem! First of all, it's cheaper to eat out than it is to cook in Thailand and secondly, you are a 30 second walk from a bunch of authentic food spots. All factors considered, I would recommend studying abroad in Thailand with TEAN any day!

Studying abroad in Sydney, Australia was one of the most transformative experiences of my life. From the moment I arrived, Sydney lived up to every expectation and dream I had for my abroad experience. Waking up just minutes from the beach, exploring the iconic Opera House, and taking weekend trips to some of the most breathtaking places in the world made every day feel surreal.
Studying at UNSW challenged me academically while also allowing me the flexibility to travel weekly and enjoy everything my host city had to offer. While many people don't expect it, there was a bit of a culture shock with the Aussie slang and slower pace of life. Engaging with locals and other international students made the experience so meaningful and transformational. I will never forget the amazing Australians who welcomed me with open arms and showed me what Australia was all about.
Looking back at my four months in Australia, this experience shaped me into a more confident, independent, and open-minded person. Studying abroad pushed me beyond my comfort zone and gave me a new perspective of the world. I will always be grateful for this experience.