Barcelona - An Experience of a Lifetime! Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The workload was quite manageable and the information we learned was definitely interesting. However, compared to Lehigh University they were very easy. I much rather prefer class room settings where there is active discussion rather than powerpoint presentations with the information.

On-site administration of your program

I felt the administration was great with approachability and transparency of options, support services etc. There was never a time where I felt unprepared for an endeavor because the staff was always there answering our questions. I was overall very happy with the experience.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I absolutely loved my home stay experience with Merixell Zapata. She integrated me into her family right away and accommodated me in any way I needed. She was friendly, approachable, and was great to interact with. We lived in the Marina district and felt very comfortable in the neighborhood. It was nice living close to the residencia because I was near other students as well as very close to la casa.

The food in Barcelona was absolutely to die for. There are so many great options but definitely stay away from very touristy areas such as paseig de gracia or las ramblas to get tapas or a meal. If you walk 2 blocks inward the meals and cooking are not only less expensive, but more authentic and tastier! My favorite restaurant that I went to was called Casa Marina in Poblenou that offered market fresh authentic catalan cuisine. Our group of friends got to know the owners, Luis and Marina and they treated us with such respect and welcomed us despite us all being America Students. I also loved La Caseta which is this awesome outdoor bbq spot on Mont Juic. Its a locals only kind of restaurant with great live music and food. There aren't any signs telling you where to go unless you look them up online! The menu deals for lunch were also the best!

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Barcelona itself was an absolutely amazing socially and culturally. Our trip to the south of France and the costa brava was to die for. I loved the cooking classes and our sailing trip that was incorporated into our schedule. Terragona was also an amazing day trip. I often explored a lot of the different districts on my own.Personally, I went to the sonar music festival, Mont Juic de Nit, Palau Guell, Park Guell, Casa Mila, and Casa Batillo.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I felt as though a lot of students on our program got sick and were sick for a good portion of their time and besides going out to the pharmacy to get medicine there wasn't a lot to do. In regards to safety I never felt any threat of physical harm when going out or walking by myself late at night. However, when in large crowds you need to constantly be aware of your belongings because of pick pockets.

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

I practiced the language the most when I was at home with my senora and her housemates. I definitely improved with my Spanish tremendously and tried to use it as much as possible when interacting with locals and going out. In the classroom there was a lot of focus on grammar which is important but at the same time, conversational aspects should have been emphasized more. I was disappointed with how the majority of people in the program chose to speak English amongst themselves instead of Spanish which was a hindrance at times.

Select all that apply

• Apartment
• Host Family

Select all that apply

• Host Family
• International Students

• The cultural programs

• The classroom experience.