What inspired you to go abroad?
Studying abroad has always been a personal goal. I wanted to see the world and learn along the way, especially about the different medical systems. This was the perfect opportunity!
Some friends during graduation day in Rhodes, Greece.
Why did you choose Forum-Nexus?
I chose this one because you traveled to five different countries!
What was your favorite part about the countries you visited?
My favorite part was the people. The countries will still be there fifty years from now, but the people made it special. They have a great way of sorting out the people that are accepted and I am so happy to say that everyone was great. The staff could not have been any better.
What made your experience abroad unique?
The unique experience was definitely the bonds I made. Over a year later, I still talk to several of the people that attended the program. I cannot thank Forum-Nexus enough for helping me build lasting bonds.
Skydiving over somewhere in Italy.
How did local staff support you throughout your program?
They did literally everything. The staff kept track of allergies, there was a medical team (one nurse and one doctor), and even security. Everyone was so helpful and they even kept a headcount of us during the times that there were trips.
What's one thing you wish you would have done differently?
I would have definitely loved to go to the different countries that were not on the schedule. They allow you to travel outside of the countries you already visit, such as London while we were in Paris, or Santorini while we were in Rhodes, Greece.
Describe a typical day in the life of your program.
A typical day would have been classes in the morning, and then either a scheduled trip in the afternoon or free time to do whatever you want for the rest of the day! This was the best part. The fact that they give you so much free time was great and allowed it to be a sort of semi-conservative program where there was so much planned, and yet you really decide how much you do during the trip.
Cinque Terre, Italy
What did you enjoy doing in your free time?
I enjoyed eating...a lot. You had access to world-class and authentic European food, which was amazing. Other than visiting the sites, this is really what I remember the most.
What was your accommodation like? What did you like best about it?
You only stayed in four to five star hotels, which was great. There was no chance of a bad host in other typical study abroad programs because you stayed in hotels that are so prominent. You also had sufficient access to wifi, just in case you want to call someone back home.
What is one thing every participant should know before participating in your program?
You will most likely spend a lot of money, so save up. I got a job a year prior to the program as a waiter and I saved up $1,500-$1,600, which is one of my greatest accomplishments to this date. Other than the tuition (which is worth it!), I spent $5k-$6k during the trip itself. Keep in mind that I suck at budgeting, so you can definitely spend less, but this was just me. There are other participants that have definitely spent less than that.
Chamonix, France.
Now that you're home, how has your program abroad impacted your life?
I have been asked about this experience in all three of my interviews with internships and a promotion at my job. They loved that I was able to talk about it so enthusiastically and I am convinced this is why I got those opportunities.
Would you recommend Forum-Nexus to others? Why?
Definitely. There is no other program like this where they are so personal and just great with managing all of us. I got a call from the staff at least once a month leading up to the program, which was great. They are really on top of their game and I cannot recommend another study program without thinking of this one first. Check it out guys, it was an amazing experience!
