CIS Barcelona - Can I go back please?? Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The grading system was fair. The in-class workload was focused and well organized. I was extremely happy that they did not burden us with much out of class homework. Their philosophy was that we should be exploring and experiencing all that Barcelona and Spanish culture had to offer.

On-site administration of your program

My program was well organized and well staffed. The small size of the program (roughly 30 students) made the student/teacher ratio amazing and the interactions with my classmates intimate. We became a tightly-knit bunch quickly, and I still am in contact with many of them today.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The apartment I lived in was nice, clean, and near enough public transit that the entire city was readily accessible. There were "cooler" areas to live in, but that was just a lottery. I lived in a safe neighborhood, that was not too far away from anything.

I loved the food in Barcelona. It took a little while for my stomach to get used to all of the cured pork they eat over there, but now I crave tapas, bocadillos, gofres....Mmmmm

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

My program planned a trip to Sevilla. There also was another trip to Morocco that I did not attend. Most of my traveling was independently planned with the friends I made on my program. I liked that they did not schedule too much and gave us the freedom to plan our own adventures.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Barcelona is notorious for pick-pocketing in touristy areas. Still, you learn very quickly what kind of activity might get you into trouble (and in what areas most trouble occurs). If you are smart, you really are very safe. I enjoyed walking around the city streets many nights alone (although my program would recommend to walk with at least one friend...and I would agree). The local healthcare system is a bit different than it is over here in the states. I basically wasted 60 euros going to see a doctor who didn't even check my throat for strep, but just told me to go to a pharmacy. There was no prescription necessary, and the amoxicillin only was 2.50 euros. All in all, my health was taken care of, but I did find it surprising that the general population would go to a pharmacy before seeing a doctor.

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

Everyday we had a 2 hour spanish-intensive course. My teacher was Carmen. She never spoke in English, and made the classroom environment welcoming and immersive. It was great.

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• Hotel
• Apartment

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• Americans

• The city, the people, the food, the culture, the language...can I keep going?

• It would be interesting if this program had connections for work opportunities after graduation.