Not for me April 30, 2024

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

On-site administration of your program

I really like the program director.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The feels like temperature is often over 105 degrees. There is no AC and fans are not provided. It's difficult to sleep and study. I expected living arrangements to be modest as I understand that I would be living in a country with a lean economy and fewer of the structural amenities I would have in the US, but the heat is simply unbearable. The dorms are fine - it was really just the heat. I really loved the RA and the dormitory student staff! There is good community in the dorms and they try their best to hold fun events.

Street food is amazing. You are responsible for going to the grocery store and cooking your own food. Expect to work with ingredients of the local cuisine. There are many American products, but not all and they are more expensive. There are a few restaurants and fast food places on campus/ in walking distance.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

My main critique of this program was the cultural integration. The program director's philosophy is that she wants her students to experience what being a Trinidadian student is like and she wants to have a study abroad program that is ethical and conscious of its impact on the local community. I LOVE this philosophy - but I don't think it works in this particular circumstance. As a student in this program, I didn't spend much time in actual Trinidadian communities. Your introduction to the island and the people is the institution of the University of the West Indies (which is not a great conductor of culture).Your introduction to the island is NOT through community and I think it needs to be. And frankly, you will not have the same experience as a Trinidadian student because they are naturally involved in community, culture, family, and activities. It is difficult to create relationships that exist beyond the confines of the campus. I was not welcomed into people's homes (beyond my program director who was gracious). I was not exposed to daily life. I made friends in the dorms, but I don't think I was able to experience the beauty and sacredness of Trinidadian culture and society. I felt confined to an institution.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Healthcare is accessible and program director is very diligent in ensuring you get the care you need. However, disability resources on campus is difficult to navigate and slow and it is difficult to get accommodations.

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

Groceries can be expensive, especially if you would like to buy American products. Public transport is pretty bare, so expect to take rideshares or hired taxis most places. Getting to the beach is expensive and most social activities hikes, and parties cost money.

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• Dorm

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• Local Students
• Americans
• International Students

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• Local Students
• Americans
• International Students

• Food
• Music
• Excursions

• Cultural Integration
• Heat in dorms
• Stipend