CIEE Kyoto [Open Blocks] -- Overall, cool! March 26, 2024

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Classes were often interesting, but not difficult. The professors were approachable.

On-site administration of your program

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Studios were standard Japanese size, came with a kitchenette and a washer. Drying rack on the balcony.

Food was not provided by the program, but it was located in Downtown Kyoto and generally, food was affordable. Staff helped me look for gluten-free items when I needed it.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Unfortunately, the language barrier and all-American environment did not lend itself well to full-immersion. The group of students tended to stick together as a result, and this further isolated us-- American customs and culture are not universal, and could be irritating to the people around us. I had more success venturing off on my own.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

No issues, and pharmacies were great!

Kyoto is relatively safe (compared to the US), but as elsewhere in Japan, sexual crimes and crimes against women generally go underreported and are not really taken seriously by police. The staff did their best to encourage us to avoid dangerous situations, and had a staff member on call 24 hrs.

Being in this program allowed me the freedom to do other things, such as my internship, and my constant traveling, because of the short class schedules (only 2x a week, 4 hours each) and the relatively lower rigor.

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

Food is much cheaper than in the US.

Select all that apply

• Apartment

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• Americans
• N/A

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• Americans

• Location!!
• Interning

• the class rigor

The Nearly Native or Trail Blazer