Past Review
By Rachel K (International Relations and Affairs., The College of William and Mary) for
API (Academic Programs International): Granada - Universidad de Granada
My study abroad has been irreplaceable. I have gained an even greater independence while here while also coming away with a greater appreciation for the people I love at home. I have learned to make the most of every experience, even when it's hard to put yourself out there and do things on your own. Life is worth living to it's fullest, but that's a choice that has to be made, with decisions to follow.
Personal Information
| If you took classes at multiple universities, list those universities here: | University of Granada |
| How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | 1 month - 6 months |
| The term and year this program took place: | Spring 2010 |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
It has been really easy, but that was what I wanted for my time abroad, in order to have more time to learn from the cultural experience. However, it's been great to learn a lot about the city and country I'm living in. However, coming from WM, you will not have ANY problem excelling in the classes here. |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
There was gerat accessibility, and the program coordinator here in Granada is excellent. She speaks great English, has great advice on cultural activities, and is super-friendly. |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
I lived with a host family, provided through API. The host mom is amazing, friendly, fun, independent, and tidy. She expects some level of responsibility in living arrangements, for the most part, it's a super-easy living arrangement. Also, she doesn't speak any English, which is perfect. |
| * Food: |
TAPAS are free with drinks in Granada. Take advantage of it. |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
I should have started getting to know Spaniards earlier, but I have definitely had a great cultural experience. |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
Not usually safe to walk alone at night, but where is? |
| 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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| Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? | Keep a budget. |
Language
| How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? | Beginner |
| Language acquisition improvement? |
It definitely depends on YOU and how much you choose to use the language. I made a big effort to make Spanish friends and practice spanish with everyone wherever I went. Also, if you have a choice, LIVE with a Spanish family and vow to only speak Spanish when in the home. |
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 do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | Make the most of your experience abraod. ASK people who live there where the best places are and really get involved while there. It's your time, and you need to make the most of it. Granada is an amazing city, with skiing, the beach, hiking all within 30 mintues of the city. There is a strong mix of Arabic and Spanish culture, and the views, nature, and old part of the city are incredible. There is a strong hippie population, and the locals are usually pretty friendly if you initiate contact. It's SUPER cheap. The city is small enough to get to know and big enough to feel like you still have places to explore, even halfway through. Academically, it's not challenging. If you are looking for a change of pace from the WM academics, a strong cultrual experience, integration in local life, improvement of your Spanish speaking skills, and a place to feel at home, my program would be perfect. |
