Granada-My Home Away From Home Past Review
By Lisa F (Spanish Language Teacher Education., Illinois State University) for
CEA CAPA Education Abroad: Granada, Spain
I gained a new respect for other cultures. I loved everything about the experience and it was more than worthwhile. I loved every minute of it. This trip gave me more motivation to become a Spanish teacher.
Personal Information
| How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | 0-2 weeks |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
My overall educational experience was fantastic. Having the opportunity to communicate with local speakers every day was a huge bonus. The teachers were fabulous and so helpful; not to mention extremely friendly. The grading system is different but it is not much more difficult. Every teacher has their own teaching methods, however I was able to follow all of the classes without a problem. Lastly, the workload is very light. If you pay attention in class and study for any exams you will be fine throughout the week. |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
I thought that the program size was great. My expectations were met. The staff was very approachable and friendly. I appreciated everything that they did for us to make sure that everyone was comfortable. |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
I always felt safe in my neighborhood. In relation distance to class, I lived far. The walking distance to nightlife was not bad at all. I didn't need to buy anything for the apartment. I was treated as part of the family at some times. |
| * Food: |
The food was good to an extent. If you don't ask your host family to cook other meals they will rotate the same five dishes. |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
I really enjoyed going to Lagos, Portugal. It was absolutely beautiful and the hotel was top notch. It was such a great time with everyone in the group. |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
I felt very safe at all times. My host family cared for my sicknesses. I was able to go to the doctor if I had chosen too. |
| 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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| Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? | I spent about 50-100 euros every other week. A lot of it went to shopping and tapas. Also, going out at night does cost money. |
| Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? | Try to budget your spending as much as possible, while having the time of your life. |
Language
| * Did your program have a foreign language component? | Yes |
| How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? | Intermediate |
| What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? | Spanish Grammar |
| If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition? |
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| Language acquisition improvement? |
I was able to practice my Spanish in my homestay. I lived with a Senora and she was very open to speaking and practicing whenever I wanted. Also, I was able to speak with teachers and students as well as Native speakers who I met while being abroad. I spent my time wisely. While many other students only spoke English amongst themselves, I went out and interacting with the people of Granada. |
Other Program Information
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* Where did you live?
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* Who did you live with?
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* Who did you take classes with?
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A Look Back
| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | Take this opportunity for everything that it is. Enjoy every minute of the tip up until the last second. |
