My phenomenal experience at Universidad Complutense Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Study abroad was a phenomenal experience which gave me the opportunity to learn about a foriegn culture and school system. I was able to take classes with Spanish professors and see how classroom dynamic differs from that in the US. In addition, I had tremendous opportunities to travel both inside and outside the program. IES planned several fascinating excursions and trips. Tour guides taught us the history of churches and monuments, we ate traditional meals, and we broadened our horizons. The only downside was the computer situation. There were three computers and printers for the entire program and they were always malfunctioning. In addition, some of the staff was a little slow. Although we were promised student id cards in September, we did not receive them until late November. Despite this, I still definitely recommend this program.

On-site administration of your program

Most everyone was unbelievably helpful, but one woman, Maria Jose, was terrible. She promised us student id cards in September but didn't get them to us until late November. These cards provided free/discounted admission to museums, etc. In addition, she never did the work our professors requested of her.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I lived in an underclassman international dorm. I had four other Americans from my program living in my dorm. The food was awful and the options were limited. It was, however, incredible close to school which was very convenient. <br /><br /> Location was phenomenal, food was disgusting.

Dining hall food was terrible, but there are cafeterias where you can buy bocadillos (sandwhiches) which were better. Also, the program trips were accompanied by delicious meals.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I went on phenomenal trips be it within or outside of my study abroad program. I saw a bull fight, a futbol (soccor) game, a flamenco show, and more cathedrals and monuments than I can count. One of the program's first trips brought us to Asturias where we hiked through los Picos de Europa (the foothills of the Pyranees). It was gorgeous.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I lived across from the park and wouldn't walk home alone late at night, but besides that, I felt safe.

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

When living in a country with a different native language, you are introduced to menu items and social terms that aren't taught in a classroom. Also, my grammar while speaking improved.

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• Dorm

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• Americans