Argentina- Left as one person, came back as another- can't wait to go back! Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The work load was appropriate to the courses, and the professors took into account all of the other adjustments that we had to make in addition to taking classes. The courses and professors were wonderful; in addition to receiving personalized instruction due to the small class size, I learned very valuable information not only about the language itself but the culture as well.

On-site administration of your program

The staff was wonderful, very helpful and knowledgeable. Any problems that arose were taken care of efficiently, and the AHA staff in Argentina and other participating students became like family. The program exceeded my expectations and left me wanting to return to learn more!

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Living with a host family was by far my favorite part of the experience. They took me in as a part of their family, and the time spent with them was when the majority of my language learning took place. They provided me with all of the essentials, and if I happened to be running low on something or didn't have an item, they provided it for me without hesitation. My home was in the middle of the city, in a safe area which was near to the main streets where there were clubs, shops, etc. Almost everything was within walking distance and if not, a cheap taxi ride away.

The food was absolutely delicious, my host mom was a great cook! There was always plenty of food, and the family made sure of any dietary needs from the beginning.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

The trips planned within the program were great- Buenos Aires, Gaucho Party, Iguazu Falls, Tango Lesson. Each was well-planned, with something for everyone to enjoy! One of the staff members also took it upon herself to organize field trips around the city which were very interesting. As a group, the other seven students and I also planned wonderful trips outside of the program- Salta, Jujuy, Purmamarca, Mendoza.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

The city was very safe overall. During the day, you could comfortably walk around and explore by yourself. At night, it was encouraged to go out in groups or at least with one other person, and take a taxi (although this goes for the majority of large cities). No vaccines were needed, although there were recommendations made if traveling to other areas of the country. I did not have any experience with the local health care system.

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

I practiced the language everyday, all day with professors, staff members, those from the community, friends that I made, and some of the students in my program. Although there were some people that spoke English, the majority spoke Spanish. However, there were plenty of people that knew some English if it was needed in a certain situation.

Select all that apply

• Host Family

Select all that apply

• Host Family

• host family
• speaking the language daily
• planned excursions

• more time spent within the community- for example: volunteering or attending classes at a local school