Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Life-Changing Experience! Past Review

By (Providence College) - abroad from 01/15/2013 to 05/10/2013 with

CIEE: Seville - Communication, New Media, and Journalism

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
You learn so much about yourself and what you are capable of when studying abroad. Nothing could be more rewarding

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 0-2 weeks

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The CIEE clases were interesting and the professors were great. The classes were perfect because they weren't too overwhelming allowing you to experience the culture and new country you are living in.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

CIEE was wonderful they had volunteers pick you up at the airport and bring you to your home stay. My program director even helped me when my luggage was unfortunately lost. The orientation week was well organized and the tour guides were so nice that we spent time with them throughout our stay.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

My home stay was amazing! I loved my host mom she was sweet and we had fun during our meals and watching movies. She even brought me to her sisters birthday party.

* Food:

Some of the food in Spain may seem a little weird at first but I enjoyed 95% of the meals that were prepared for me.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I did feel integrated in the culture by opting to do cultural activities, however many of my friends were americans.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I did not have any experiences with healthcare but my friends found and went to doctors easily.

* Safety:

I walked everywhere that I needed to go and never felt unsafe or in danger.

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

Finances

* 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)

5: Since meals are included in the home stay the only time you would spend money is when out with friends or for traveling.

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? 10 e
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Take advantage of home stay meals and though shopping is tempted don't buy a whole new wardrobe. (it won't fir in your suitcase).

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
How much did the program encourage you to use the language?

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

Spanish was requires in class, in your home stay and in the CIEE building.

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? Intermediate
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Advanced
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? 300
How many hours per day did you use the language?
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? Make conversation with your host family during meals and do not be afraid to interact with the locals when out with friends.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with?

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Host family
  • Friends
  • A new culture
* What could be improved?
  • Class expectations could be made more clear
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I wish I knew that I could relax because it is easier than you think it's going to be!

Reasons For Studying Abroad

To help future students find programs attended by like-minded individuals, please choose the profile that most closely represents you.
The Academic or Linguist
You went abroad with specific academic goals in mind; the program credentials and rigor of your coursework abroad were very important to you. You had a great time abroad, but never lost sight of your studies and (if applicable) were diligent with your foreign language study. Good for you!