Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

So glad I was able to study in 2 countries in 1 semester! Past Review

By (University of Minnesota - Twin Cities) - abroad from 02/11/2019 to 05/17/2019 with

IES Abroad: Multi-Location - Emerging Economies, Buenos Aires & Santiago

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I really gained more knowledge of South American economies, which I can apply to my studies at my university. I loved being able to learn the cultures of South America and their values. It was tough adjusting at some points, but totally worthwhile.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 0-2 weeks

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Classes were mostly focused around economics and business, but there were a few history classes that I would highly recommend that really get you involved in the culture!

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Home stay in both locations, loved being able to experience the culture with the help of locals! This especially helped since we only had 7 weeks in each country.

* Food:

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

IES staff were helpful in assisting students who needed to go to the doctor or clinic

* Safety:

Keep your phones and wallets in secure places and don't flash them in public!

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

I would pick this program again in a heartbeat, because of its unique structure and the opportunities it offers. I was able to travel to 2 countries and stay for 7 weeks in each, plus a course related trip to Peru for 1 week. It was a program like no other.

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)

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? 50-100
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Argentina was pretty affordable, and I had no problem spending the money to buy lunch and meals on the weekend. Chile was a lot more expensive, so I advise splitting your budget 40/60 so that you have more money for Chile but don't feel the change as much with smart budgeting.

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

There were Spanish classes offered, as well as language partners as an optional after class program.

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? Multiple SPAN 3xxx classes
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? Don't be afraid to be corrected, it's the best way to learn!

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
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?
  • Included Field Studies
  • Home Stay
  • Location
* What could be improved?
  • Classes were a bit repetitive
  • Lots of time was spent traveling in busses, especially in Peru
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Chile is expensive and gets chilly in April/May!

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 Academic or Linguist
You went abroad with specific academic goals in mind; the program credentials and rigor of your coursework abroad were very important to you. You had a great time abroad, but never lost sight of your studies and (if applicable) were diligent with your foreign language study. Good for you!