Quito: A whole other world! Past Review
By Elizabeth F (Anthropology., Trinity University) for
IES Abroad: Quito - IES Abroad in Quito
My study abroad experience was one of the best experiences in my life. It was definitely worth it. From this experience, I learned more about myself as an individual, my strengths and weaknesses as a person, and about the greater diversity out there in the world.
Personal Information
| How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | 0-2 weeks |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
The program really focuses on improving the student's Spanish language skills and boosting the student's confidence to speak and read Spanish better. The work load was light enough that students could travel on the weekends to various different parts of Ecuador. The program encourages students to travel and see the cultural diversity of Ecuador. |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
The IES staff in Quito were amazing! The were like our Ecuadorian mothers and fathers; there for us if we needed help, but not controlling. The relaxed atmosphere encouraged me to improve my Spanish language skills while at the same time, I was able to explore the Ecuadorian culture and learn about the people. This is one of the best programs! It is academically challenging and it is supportive of the student. |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
I lived with a host family; a mother, daughter and the grandson. It was a amazing experience to become close to these people and become part of their lives. My host family was accomadating and supportive. They were patient with my Spanish language skills. It is through my host family's effort that my Spanish greatly improved. Also from my host family I was able to learn a lot about the Ecuadorian people and culture. |
| * Food: |
The Mariscal is a great place for students to eat out or night life. In terms of street food, it's best not to try it until after you are used to the different Ecuadorian foods. |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
The program took us on several trips, to the Amazon and the Galapagos. The trips are a 'must do.' They were amazing experiences! From this, the student is able to see parts of the world so greatly different from anything in the U.S. |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
To students traveling to Ecuador, my advice is to use your common sense. Always be watchful of your belongings, especially on the bus. Basically, be street smart. |
| If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? |
Yes
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Finances
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* 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) |
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| Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? | I spent about 15 dollars a week which included expenses for going out to eat, going out at nights and other personal expenses. Since the host family cooks for the student, there are not many outside expenses. |
| Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? | The cell phone was an unanticipated expense. It's best to buy the cell phone in Ecuador, however, buy it used instead of new. |
Language
| * Did your program have a foreign language component? | Yes |
| How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? | None |
| If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition? |
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| Language acquisition improvement? |
Not many people in the program spoke English. The students were forced to use Spanish on a daily basis with the host family, teachers and friends. IES has a policy in which the student is only allowed to use Spanish. IES generally tries to enforce this policy so that the student can improve his or her language skills. |
Other Program Information
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* Where did you live?
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* Who did you live with?
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* Who did you take classes with?
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A Look Back
| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | The program offers an amazing experience. However, it is more based for someone with less strong Spanish skills. If a student is already somewhat fluent in Spanish, then this program may not be enough of a challenge for him or her. Also, the specific program in Quito is really good and on top of things, but it felt like the IES coordinator in the U.S was somewhat disorganized. Before leaving and while still in the U.S, it is difficult to find someone to contact from IES in order to ask questions. |
