Granada: The Best Time of My Life Past Review
By Grace A (Business, University of Tennessee - Knoxville) for
AIFS: Granada - University of Granada and Internship Program
I learned a lot about how big the world really is and how to expand my horizons and be open-minded towards new people and places. I saw a different type of culture that reminds me to be appreciative and loving towards my family and how money isn't everything.
Personal Information
| How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | 2 weeks - 1 month |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
The teaching system was wonderful! My teachers were incredibly involved and always spirited, making the classes enjoyable. I didn't do too much homework (maybe 30 minutes max. a day). The school is in a beautiful location and is a really cool building. |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
The program directors were AWESOME! Paula and Edu are not only incredibly caring and will do anything to help you, they are absolutely hilarious and fun. The group had 36 in it which was a good size and the program had free weekends that you could spend traveling on your own. AIFS has daily activities which aren't mandatory (which is nice), but they were always fun. |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
My host mom or "Senora" had everything set up for us. She didn't speak any Spanish which made me nervous at first but it ended up being the best way to learn and progress in my skills. She cooked 3 meals a day which always were delicious. Senora didn't make rules about going out or being up late because she understands the culture. |
| * Food: |
Best food ever! In addition to my senora's cooking, Granada food is incredible. Tapas are the greatest creation known to man. |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
We took a beach trip that was SO much fun. There were tons of cultural activities that weren't lame at all and I always enjoyed. |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
Safety is not an issue if you aren't an idiot. For example, don't drink too much and walk home by yourself. SIMPLE. |
| If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? |
Yes
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Finances
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* 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) |
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Language
| * Did your program have a foreign language component? | Yes |
| If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition? |
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| Language acquisition improvement? |
The program absolutely improved my Spanish. I lived with a family where I was forced to speak Spanish the whole time. One of my largest barriers prior to studying abroad in speaking Spanish was confidence. Living with a family gave me confidence and the practice I needed to excel. |
Other Program Information
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* Where did you live?
Select all that apply |
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* Who did you live with?
Select all that apply |
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A Look Back
| * What did you like most about the program? |
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| * What could be improved? |
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| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | If you are outgoing and want to meet the best friends of your life while learning about an entirely different but incredible culture this trip is for you. |
