Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

No Pasa (Gra)nada Past Review

By (Politics and International Relations, Scripps College) - abroad from 09/02/2015 to 12/18/2015 with

IES Abroad: Granada - Liberal Arts & Language

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Being in Granada was one of the most enriching experiences I have ever had. I was able to improve my Spanish and study flamenco and had the opportunity to learn about Spanish architecture by visiting the Alhambra, walking in the Albayzín, and other historic sites throughout the city. I enjoyed the challenge of having to rely on a new language. Studying abroad allowed me to step out of my comfort zone and become more independent. I also had the opportunity to get to know amazing people through this program.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 2 weeks - 1 month

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

* 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

My semester abroad in Granada was an unforgettable experience. I would love to go back. The city was a great size. It was small, easy to navigate, beautiful, and full of culture. I met amazing people and saw beautiful sites. The program staff were also extremely supportive and always around to help you with any problems.

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? Make a budget and follow it

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

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • The class options
  • My fellow students and the faculty and staff
  • The field trips
* What could be improved?
  • The final week of the program was extremely hectic. It would have been nice if they had made finals the week before so as to give us time to say goodbye to people and the city
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I wish I knew more about Spanish culture and the city of Granada. I did not really know what to expect from the program, the city, or my host family. If I had known more beforehand I believe I would have been more prepared and less nervous. However Granada was a really pleasant surprise.

Reasons For Studying Abroad

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The Outright Urbanite
A social butterfly, you're happiest in bustling cities with hip people, and took advantage of all it had to offer. You enjoyed the nightlife, and had fun going out dancing, and socializing with friends. Fun-loving and dressed to the nines, you enjoyed discovering new restaurants, shops, cafes, and bars in your host country.