Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Full Emersion in Ecuador Past Review

By (Spanish Language and Literature., Universidad San Francisco de Quito) - abroad from 08/15/2013 to 12/22/2013 with

IES Abroad: Quito - IES Abroad in Quito

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
My language abilities increased immensely, and it changed my view of the world. I learned so much both inside and outside of the classroom about Ecuador, Latin America, developing countries in general, among many other things.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 1 month - 6 months

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:

Quito is not a very safe city in that robberies are frequent. However, I was never the victim of a crime and it doesn't take away from the experience.

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

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)

Ecuador is a very inexpensive country compared to Europe and the United States. It is very easy to stay within a strict budget, even while traveling to other cities.

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

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? Spanish and Latin American Literature
How many hours per day did you use the language? 10+
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? Since all of the courses are offered directly at the university and often among other Ecuadorian students, it is very easy to meet locals, especially since they are very friendly.

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

  • Local Students
  • 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?
  • direct enrollment
  • field trips
* What could be improved?
  • cultural events offered by the program
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I wasn't aware that Quito wasn't a very safe city. Despite this, it did not inhibit my experience and really is part of living in a developing country.

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!