I wish I could have stayed in Barcelona! Past Review
By Christine S (International Business, Texas State University-San Marcos) for
API (Academic Programs International): Barcelona - Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona
Yes, it was extremely worthwhile. I would do it all over again without a doubt!!
Personal Information
How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | 6 months+ |
Review Your Program
* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
Very different from US universities, but it was easy to adapt to and I learned 10x more than expected. My professors were wonderful!!! |
* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
Great education and highly qualified and supportive program staff in Barcelona. |
* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
We had the BEST apartment, I am sure of it! Great neighborhood, centrally located, only a 10 minute walk to class, and a terrace! |
* Food: |
I lived in an apt and cooked my own food or went out to eat. |
* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
Our trip to Paris was perfect!! |
* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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* Safety: |
The only crime committed in Barcelona is pickpocketing, so keep you purse closed and the zipper opening under your palm & you will be fine! Also, be very aware of your surroundings. I never felt unsafe in Barcelona, even while walking alone at night. |
If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? |
Yes
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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) |
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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? |
Used it everyday. I tried my best not to speak English anywhere except in my apartment with my roommates. |
Other Program Information
* 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? | Please wait until you are at least a junior in college and have intermediate Spanish language and cultural knowledge. |