Past Review
By Steven M (Marketing., Providence College) for
CIEE: Barcelona - Business & Culture
It was extremely worthwhile. Not only do you learn about Europe and what is outside of American walls but you also learn about yourself. You are forced to adapt and it can be very rewarding. It allows you to see the world from a different perspective.
Personal Information
| If you took classes at multiple universities, list those universities here: | University of Pompei Fabra |
| The term and year this program took place: | Fall 2009 |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
My educational experience was overall successful. However, I feel Providence College offers a better overall education academically. |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
I felt the program administration was helpful, but at times were difficult to reach. Even during specific hours, it was hard to meet with some of the staff members. They did prepare fun trips and were organized. |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
I lived in Melon District which was a dorm room set up. You had your own room, bathroom, sink, and shower. You also had a desk. You shared the kitchen with everyone else who lived on your floor. <br /><br /> The location was very close to the schools I attended. I was not overly impressed by the housing and would rather have lived in a different building. |
| * Food: |
I had to make my own meals which required grocery shopping and the ability to cook. |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
There were many social and non-academic aspects that were very interesting. The traditions such as La Merce, a festival, was one of the most memorable. My program also took a trip to Madrid. |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
The city of Barcelona was relatively safe. However, as a foreigner I often faced the threat of theft or pick-pocketing. Doctors were very accessible and the staff could set up appointments for you. |
| If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? |
No
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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? | A lot of money was spent on recharging minutes for my pre-paid phone. I also spent the majority of money on transportation through the metro. |
Language
| Language acquisition improvement? |
Language was one of the most important aspects of studying abroad, especially in a foreign country. The Spanish class I took through the program was very helpful. |
Other Program Information
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* Where did you live?
Select all that apply |
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* Who did you take classes 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? | The program can be extremely challenging academically but does an overall good job of allowing you to fully experience the culture. They ensure that you get the most out of it. |
