Ecuador: Unexpectedly the most amazing country ever Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Classes at first were difficult since they were all in Spanish, but once it became easier to understand what was being said, my classes became much easier. I did not find the semester to be challenging until the very end when it seemed like all the work piled on at one time. But, I do feel like I learned more this semester than I have ever learned in a semester in America.

On-site administration of your program

The program staff and facilities were fantastic! I had an accident where I had to go to the hospital a few times and the woman in charge of students was extremely helpful and always there for me, even at 2:00 am in the emergency room. I have no complaints about my program whatsoever. Although the program was tiny, only 10 people, it created a closer atmosphere among the group. IES is wonderful.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

My host mom was the most amazing cook! We ate like kings and queens.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

GALAPAGOS AND AMAZON RAINFOREST! MOST AMAZING TRIPS EVER!

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I had a bad accident at the beach. I was surfing and got stuck in large waves. My surf board hit my head and gave me concussion and triggered cluster headaches. My program was absolutely fantastic in helping me and taking me to the hospital for tests. IES really really cares about it's students. They were such a huge help. As in safety for a whole- it depends on if you are smart or not. Pick pocketing is common on buses, so you need to always hold your things close to your body. At night I know it can be a little dangerous, but that is something I knew when I signed up to go to Ecuador so it was not a problem.

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

My program was FANTASTIC at encouraging us to speak only in Spanish! I owe so much to them for my improvement. But in reality, my friends and I did speak in English the majority of the time we hung out. This was our own fault due to laziness. My program did everything they could to encourage us to practice our Spanish.

Select all that apply

• Host Family

Select all that apply

• Host Family

• How much the staff cares about the students

• Nothing