The City That Stole My Heart Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

I felt that the workload was much lighter than that of UT. The grading system is on a 9 point system. I liked the smaller class sizes and the way that the professors were very interactive with students. All of my classes were in Spanish and I feel that this really helped my Spanish to improve.

On-site administration of your program

Paula and Inma, the program coordinators, are incredible. They are very supportive and are always available to help. The office is welcoming and comfortable, and they truly want to make sure that you make the most of your semester abroad. Every part of their program is well organized and well run, from registering for classes to their weekend excursions and holiday parties. The program size (ours had 37 people) was fantastic. I liked the smaller size for it enabled our program to become very close. We were like a family. Paula is from New York originally so she is able to relate to all of her American students. AIFS Granada, hands down, was the best program in Granada. They know how to do it.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

My host family was, by far, the best part of my study abroad experience. They were fabulous. Their apartment was comfortable and the food was incredible. I learned so much about the Spanish culture from them and they truly welcomed me into their home like a daughter. I know that I will always have a second family in Spain.

My host mom was an incredible cook. Thank goodness you walk a lot in Granada or I would have come back to Texas huge.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

AIFS planed multiple excursions. All were well planned and so much fun. Definitely take advantage of these amazingly led trips. 1) Toledo, Madrid, Segovia 2) Gibraltar, Sevilla, Cordoba 3) Beach Trip - Almeria 4) Morocco AIFS also led day trips/tours throughout the semester: - hiking trip through the mountains of Granada - trip to the Alpujaras - tour of La Catedral y Capilla Real - tour of the Albaicin - tour of the Alhambra - Thanksgiving Dinner - Goodbye dinner and flamenco show

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Granada always felt safe to me. Just make sure to take taxis home if it is late or to walk back with a group. Never walk home alone. In other cities in Spain, make sure to be extra aware of pickpockets.

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

All of my classes were in Spanish. I also lived with a host family and would use Spanish at all meals/in daily conversations and interactions. I definitely learned the most from these interactions. I also had to use spanish whenever out in public - restaurants, bars, stores, etc. Besides the other Americans studying abroad, some younger Spaniards spoke English, however, in general there is not much English in Granada.

Select all that apply

• Host Family

Select all that apply

• Host Family
• Americans