Phenomenal Program – Exploration, Academics, Social, and Adventure

This program was perfect for my goals studying abroad. I love hiking, camping, snowboarding, meeting new friends, and trying outdoorsy things... but can struggle to motivate to go out of my way to engage with these things when I get comfortable. With that in mind, UC was a great place for me -- it offered awesome adventures and places, plus people who wanted to explore them together, every weekend, all within a 1-5 hour drive. Being in international housing with other folks who wanted to explore, it was really easy to make these trips happen and make wonderful memories.

The program offered great personal support, and the academics at UC were solid -- you can get as much out of it as you're willing to put in. For me, that meant going to lots of office hours and trying to engage with the professors... I always found that they were willing to engage when I put in the effort. Also, get ready for homework that isn't graded, followed by a test or essay worth 50% of your grade. Stressful, but everyone is in it together.

The social/going out scene was perfect for me, a chill night with dancing and drinks is always a bus away on the weekend. This might not be the right program for people that want a true club scene, or who are trying to stay out till 4am most weekend nights. UC is an outdoorsy place, on the whole... no outdoor experience is required, only a willingness to learn and try and have fun... but somebody who doesn't want to engage with the outdoors at all might find other programs more suited to their taste.

Finally, I'll note that the IFSA housing seemed to place most study abroad students in housing that was shared with other study abroad students. That meant that most every friend I met there was a fellow American. It takes more effort in this program to meet local friends than it might in some others. The school's clubs are fine places for that, classes too.