The day I became a Yankeetino! Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The international english classes were relatively the same amount of work as my home university. Much of the workload consisted of readings. Conversely, the directly enrollment class in the university was as difficult or even harder than what I was used to in the States. One thing that students should note is that studies are very independent. Although this style may be favorable to some, it may be difficult for others to adjust to. Overall, each class has two major assessments per semester--the midterm and the final. That being said, students are given two chances to pass if he or she did not perform well the first time. My program director was hands-on and gave a lot of support when I was not doing as well as I thought I could. Without my program director, I would not have had the confidence to keep pursuing my Human Behavior class in Spanish.

On-site administration of your program

My on-site administration was above my expectations. My program last semester was small, which allowed me build a close relationship with my Resident Director. From suggestions great local places to giving everyday advice for life, my program director ended up becoming a great mentor of mine.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

While a home-stay is over ideal because of the immersion one receives with a family, I would've rather opted to live with other students or rented my own apartment. Living with other students would have allowed for more of "traditional" experience that many American students are used to, as well as the option to build better social ties. However, many Argentines live at home while enrolled in college, so it was quite traditional in the argentine sense. Lastly, I would've enjoyed the freedom to having my own place. Apartments are cheap to rent in Buenos Aires and often have most amenities included. Because of the late social life in Argentina, having an individual place to stay may be better if one worries about disturbing the house family.

If you love great beef and empanadas, you are in for a treat! Much of the food has European influences. There are a lot options ranging from pasta, pizza, asado (grilled beef and chicken), excellent wine, and sweet alfajores. It may take sometime to get adjusted to the lack of typical American few, but there are few good wing and burger spots. Argentina has some of the best beef I've ever tasted--no seasoning needed. Their artisan style pizza, consumed with fork and knife, may take some getting used to, but over all good. Take a chance and venture out to the local parillas and fine dining locations. The shawarma may just be your favorite late night food too!

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I felt very integrated throughout my trip. In actuality, it was harder dealing with reverse culture shock upon my return to the States. I met many new people, whom I still communicate with every day. Being a black man, I felt more respected there than in the US in many instances. The culture is laid-back and relaxed, correlating to pace of being slower. The nation is heavily bound together by its love for soccer. As seen during the World Cup, avid "futbol" fans took to the streets to celebrate after each victory. The culture is fun and hip, with the nightlife extending early into the morning (around 7:30-8am). The people are very warm hearted and brought a gregarious side out of me I never knew I had.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Health in Argentina is universal. However, there are long waiting lines for public facilities, especially if it isn't an emergency. I got sick with a cold, which clogged up my ears. After a while, I had to go see a doctor so I went to a private office. I payed $30 upfront and was treated. Medicine is relatively cheap and just as good as back home in the U.S.!

Most people make note that there are several safety issues in Buenos Aires. I, however, experienced no safety problems fortunately. It is a bustling city with about 14 million people, but to my standards, I was perfectly fine and I always felt safe. Being a foreigner, one should take more cautious because he or she will stick out among the crowds. Don't do things there that one would not do back home. Because of a late nightlife, people are often out until early in the morning. That being said, even then, I felt relatively safe returning home.

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

On average, I could budget $100-$150 dollars every two weeks. Most of my expenses honestly went to food (grocery shopping/dining out) and travel. Surprisingly, I didn't find that many souvenirs to bring back. All should note that American Dollars cannot be taken out of the bank while in Argentina. Bring all cash before and then exchange while there. If needed, dollars can be taken out in neighboring countries like Chile or Uruguay.

0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language

I was enrolled in a Spanish grammar course. Although I wasn't to thrilled to take it, I was happy that I did because I helped me refresh grammar rules and things like that. I would often find myself walking through the street or riding the bus, picking up on things that I learned in class. In addition, I was eager to

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• Host Family
• Apartment

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• International Students
• Host Family

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• Local Students
• International Students

• Flexibility
• Freedom
• Opportunity

• More group travel options
• Time it takes to receive grades

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