Enlightening January 25, 2024

By (Psychology, Spanish, University of New Hampshire) - abroad from 01/06/2024 to 01/13/2024 with

Abroadia: Havana - Cuban Culture Program

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned more about the world and myself as well as developed my language skills.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 1 month - 6 months

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* Food:

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

I had an excellent time and it was a life changing experience. I learned so much and had an excellent time.

Finances

* Money: How easily were you able to live on a student's budget?

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

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $600, but this is absolutely avoidable. Spent a lot of money on cigars and rum to bring home.
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Spend wisely

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
How much did the program encourage you to use the language?

0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language

Course conducted in english, but spanish use encouraged

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? Advanced
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Advanced
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? SPAN 632
How many hours per day did you use the language?
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? Avoid using English whenever possible even if it is difficult

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with?

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • The programming
  • After hours opportunities
  • Location
* What could be improved?
  • COVID Procedures
  • Itinerary Clarity
  • Crisis Planning
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? That there were more opportunities to spend money than expected and to be smart when going out

Reasons For Studying Abroad

To help future students find programs attended by like-minded individuals, please choose the profile that most closely represents you.
The Academic or Linguist
You went abroad with specific academic goals in mind; the program credentials and rigor of your coursework abroad were very important to you. You had a great time abroad, but never lost sight of your studies and (if applicable) were diligent with your foreign language study. Good for you!