Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Exceeded my expectations in every way September 01, 2022

By (Psychology, Miami University) - abroad from 01/08/2022 to 04/02/2022 with

IES Abroad: Barcelona - Full Time Semester Internship

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned how to get out of my comfort zone and challenge myself. I had to introduce myself to new people in a new culture with a new language. Doing all of these things simultaneously is an experience that cannot be gained any other way.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 1 month - 6 months

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

I did not enroll in courses, therefore do not have experience in this area.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* Food:

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

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)

Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Save eating out for the weekends!

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

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? Spanish 381
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? Duolingo or Boomalang

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
  • 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?
  • The Internship Staff
  • My colleagues at my placement
  • The organization and efficiency with the program
* What could be improved?
  • Immersion with locals
  • Exploration of less touristy areas of the city
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? To SAVE my money! And not to pack so much. Also, say yes to everything! Be open to new experiences, it may surprise you. Be prepared for your entire life to change.

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 Networker
An active student leader, it was important for you to network abroad as well. Once overseas, you sought out student clubs, volunteered with local organizations, or attended community events. You encouraged your friends join you, and often considered how you could reflect your international experiences in a resume.