Barcelona: Experience of a Lifetime! Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Going to school in Barcelona was definitely different than going to school here in the states. I had a lot more time to relax and enjoy everything that Barcelona had to offer when I was studying abroad. Here at home in Texas I am involved in a lot of organizations and my workload is more hectic and demanding. I enjoyed the flexibility that my host university offered because it goes along with the lifestyle and culture of the country I studied in.

On-site administration of your program

The Program Administration in Barcelona was absolutely incredible! They were always there when I needed them and extremely eager to help in any way they could. They wanted to make sure that you had the best possible experience you could and I definitely felt like I could go to them for anything. I miss them all very much!

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

My host family was incredible. It was a mom and her daughter and they really treated myself and my roommate like we were family. They were always there for us when we needed them and even took me to the doctor when I was sick. It was a little strange at first living in a small apartment with people I didn't know, but I quickly got to know them and felt at home. My host mom even made my roommate and I special treats when we were feeling homesick. I miss her very much!

The food in Barcelona and everywhere I traveled in Europe was delicious, but you have to be open minded and willing to try new things. The biggest thing I had to get used to was paying for water, which may sound funny, but it's something that you don't think about here in the states where water is free. I recommend living with a host family because they can really share the local food scene with you as well as make you authentic meals from their country.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

One thing I really loved about API was that they had trips to other places than just your main host country planned during the semester. During my program we went to Rome, Italy and Sevilla, Spain, which were both incredible. Take full advantage of those trips because it is a great way to get to know the other students in your program and your program administration. Also, go to as many cultural events in your host city as possible, so that you can really have the best overall experience of your study abroad home.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I didn't have any safety issues during my study abroad experience. The main thing we had to worry about in Barcelona was pick-pocketing, but as long as you were smart about where you kept things it wasn't a problem. Be smart though and don't wander around the city alone especially at night because whether you think you look like an American or not, you do. As far as the healthcare went, it wasn't that different than going to a doctor here in the states. I would recommend going with someone though because the language barrier can cause some difficulties, but the API staff at your host country are very helpful, so use them!

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

I lived with a host family who primarily spoke Spanish, so I was constantly having to use the language. I also met with a spanish student once a week for coffee and we would practice my Spanish and her English. I found that to be a really fun and great way to learn the language. I could usually always find someone who spoke enough English to help me when I needed it, but using the host language is an important part of the whole study abroad experience, so I would recommend using English only when necessary.

Select all that apply

• Host Family

Select all that apply

• Host Family

• The staff both in my host country and in the states.
• The opportunities my program gave me.

• Everything was great!