Studying Abroad in Puebla, MX= Life-Changing Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The academic experience at the BUAP was very different from my American private school experience, specifically more lax. I spent a lot of time shopping for classes and ended up with a few reliable, good professors who expected professional work and commitment to their class, and showed the students the same commitment. On the other had, I had a couple of professors who were pretty unprofessional by my standards--constantly late or absent, inconsistent regarding assignments and expectations, etc. School was great because of its social aspects, and I regarded my classes mainly as a great opportunity to improve my language skills.

On-site administration of your program

I really loved this program. It did so much for me on so many levels, and I really have very few criticisms. The program coordinators and staff were accommodating, understanding, and thoughtful, and I really had everything I needed just about always (a well-matched host family, help with school issues, cultural guidance, monetary stipends, even a few organized trips and activities). This program is perfect for someone who's looking for a complete cultural immersion experience, but who feels a little nervous. The program offers plenty of support while still giving its students substantial freedom and requiring them to venture into Mexican culture.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I was treated as somewhere between a family member and guest, but my host family was very warm and also respectful of my independence and privacy. I did not need to bring any living supplies of my own. My host mom provided me with meals, even did my laundry and had my room cleaned once a week--it was much cushier than my life in the US. I lived in a comfortable, modern house in an upper-middle class community very near the historic center of the city. It was within walking distance to most of my classes, as well as bars, cafes, and museums. Not all of the people in the program lived in this neighborhood, but I had the good luck of being really conveniently situated.

DELICIOUS! I ate everything and I loved just about all of it. My host mom was a very good cook, it would have been nice to have more vegetables in my diet but I made do. I really enjoyed the street food in Puebla and all over Mexico, but definitely give yourself at least a month in Mexico before you start eating street food. It's cheap and delicious but can sometimes make you a bit sick if you're not used to it. Puebla has many local delicacies, and there are lots of restaurants in the center of the city that specialize in them. In general though, my favorite places were hole-in-the-wall taquerias with fewer tourists.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I loved traveling. In total, I spent a few weeks throughout the semester backpacking, and I saw a good deal of central and southern Mexico. Chiapas, Oaxaca, the Yucatan Peninsula, and Guanajuato were a few of the most memorable places I visited. Palenque, Chichen ItzaI, Tulum, and Teotihuacán were a few of my favorite ruins--truly incredible. also loved going out to bars and clubs in Cholula, right next to Puebla, on the weekends. That was a really great way to hang out with friends from the BUAP and UDLA, as well as PMCSP.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Puebla is a big city and you should always be carefully and aware when out and about, but in general it's not much worse than other big cities. Be aware that you're more noticeable if you're a white and wealthy-looking American. Don't flash around electronics, don't wear fancy clothes or jewelry, and keep tabs on your bag. If you're a woman, sexual harassment is a day-to-day experience, and sometimes it's more mild than others. Walking alone after 8 or 9 PM is generally not a great idea, but I got away with it plenty of times. Try to go places with other people at night, take the catcalls with a grain of salt, and things should be fine.

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

Jump in! Make friends! Mexican students are so intrigued by Americans, if you want to build up a social life at the BUAP you absolutely can. Never turn down an offer to hang out or spend time with Mexican acquaintances, because you'll usually have fun and learn a lot. Some Mexicans want to practice their English with you (many of them speak a little bit), but I found it a good idea to stand your ground and insist on speaking Spanish with them. After all, you'll be the one trying to negotiate life in a new culture, and it's important that you get all the practice you can get. I thought many of the people I met were impressed that I spoke decent Spanish and didn't expect them to communicate with me in English.

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