Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

As far as abroad programs go, Hamilton College's program in Madrid is definitely academically challenging. The courses are all taught in Spanish and all students are required to sign a "Spanish only" contract, which requires them to speak Spanish at all times. The classes are by no means difficult, but they demand a certain amount of effort. The professors recognize that students want to take advantage of various travel opportunities, so there are no classes on Fridays. Overall, I enjoyed the course selection and felt as though my Spanish improved significantly.

On-site administration of your program

The on-site administrators/faculty were very friendly and easily accessible. They also organized various group events/trips for students.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

All students are required to live in home stays. I lived with an older woman in an apartment complex. I was relatively happy with my location, although I sometimes felt uncomfortable late at night/early in the morning walking from the metro alone. My biggest complaint was that the food was not very good, but that varies depending on the host family. I definitely would have preferred living in dorm style housing with other students.

I didn't love the food provided by my Senora, so I would have liked having a kitchen and being able to cook on my own. Overall, Madrid has lots of great restaurants.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Spain is a great place to study abroad! Lots of interesting places to travel and it is easy to get everywhere. The program offers trips to both Northern and Southern regions of Spain and the organized events in Madrid are fun. There is so much to do in Madrid alone.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Like any big city, Madrid is dangerous and you have to be careful and very aware of your surroundings. I felt safe, granted I always made sure I was with friends. I was lucky that I didn't have medical issues while abroad, but my friend did and the on-site administrators were very helpful.

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

Due to the "Spanish only" contract as well as the constant exposure to native speakers, I felt as though my Spanish improved dramatically. Also, after visiting Barcelona (where English was spoken everywhere), I realized that more people in Madrid still speak Spanish.

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• Apartment

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