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Beginning in 1998 students in the Dept. of Horticulture at Iowa State Univ. have been given an opportunity to enroll in a semester-long study abroad course, culminating in a two-week visit to the country of interest. Students participating in a recent study abroad experience to England were asked several questions prior to their departure including: 1) their motivation for participating and goals for the site visit; 2) fears or concerns related to the trip; 3) expectations about the course and trip; and upon arriving home 4) their overall evaluation of the course and trip. A questionnaire containing ten closed-ended and six open-ended questions was given to all 25 students enrolled in the course. We learned most students participated in the course to learn about and experience a different place and culture. Thirty-nine percent of responding students said issues related to packing for the trip was their biggest concern or fear. Twenty-six percent were concerned abut using a foreign currency while another 17% said interacting with other sudents on the trip was their greatest concern. A large majority (90%) of students felt the course and trip met their expectations and 80% said they would participate in another international experience. Other survey questions revealed students gained better insight about themselves, became more tolerant of people and other customs, felt they were better able to adapt to new situations, developed close friendships with traveling companions, and experienced an increased interest in horticulture.