Surreal Past Review
By Tiffany A F (Sociology., The University of Texas at Austin) - abroad from 01/07/2014 to 04/30/2014 with
IES Abroad: Barcelona - Study Abroad with IES Abroad
It was great fun living in a new city and learning about its culture, history, language and people. I learnt to step out of my comfort zone to communicate and connect with people despite our differences. It was an amazing experience.
Personal Information
| How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | 6 months+ |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
I was lucky to have good teachers who were very passionate about what they teach. The classes were fun because they would bring us on field trips and assign a variety of activities for assignment. They didn't really care much about grades but on personal achievement. |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
Great homestay. A little far but totally worth it. |
| * Food: |
Homecooked spanish food everyday. Perfect. |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
In the first few months there were a lot of activities to help you learn about the culture and the city. But in general there could've been more activities to help students integrate with the locals. You're on your own to meet locals and join local events like festivals, meet-ups or clubs! |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
Free doctors appointment. The doctor speaks english well and was very caring and understanding. |
| * Safety: |
Many people got robbed during their stay. But Barcelona is much safer than rumored as long as you watch your belongings at tourist spots. There's a lot of cat-calling on the streets but people are usually friendly! |
| If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? |
No
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Finances
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* 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) |
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| Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? | Plan for your trips and buy tickets in advance. Try to eat with your host family to save money from eating out. Plus, it's good to spend more time with them! |
Language
| * Did your program have a foreign language component? | Yes |
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How much did the program encourage you to use the language?
0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language |
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| How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? | Beginner |
| How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? | Beginner |
| What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? | none |
| 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? | Do an intercambio (language exchange) ! |
Other Program Information
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* Where did you live?
Select all that apply |
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* Who did you live with?
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* Who did you take classes with?
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| 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? |
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| * What could be improved? |
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| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | Nothing. |
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 NetworkerAn 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. |
