A well-rounded study abroad experience! Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

All of my 5 classes were in spanish. This seemed intimidating at first but the students in the IES classes were only from the IES program. The teachers were aware that we were all from the US and spoke slowly. I asked questions when I needed explanations. The intensive program at the beginning helped my transition into spanish classes. The workload for this was minor but helpful. The homework load at times was difficult, but other times very manageable. What made the workload difficult at times were the final papers, some of them 10 pages. I thought this was a bit much for a class in spanish where my grammar is limited. I had a hard time writing 10 pages worth of material. The teachers were really nice and I enjoyed having them for class. My favorite class was the art history class because we learned about spanish artists. Many of the classes, although they were named "history" or "literature and film" or "art history", the classes revolved around spanish culture. This contributed to the full immersion aspect of a study abroad experience. The teaching methods for the IES classes were very similar to the US. They use syllabi, similar lecture-style, and study guides. All was helpful. For my university class, I took a grammar class as if you were to 'teach' spanish to someone else. The class followed a pamphlet of intructions which made it very easy to follow and easy to study. Very straight-forward. I enjoyed the teacher because he spoke slow and was also aware of all the exchange students in the class. However, the class grade was only made up of the final exam. We got to use our notes so the key to the class was organization. It was also manageable because you have students from your program in basically all of your classes so you can study together.

On-site administration of your program

The program's support services were great. I spent lots of time in the program center where they provided study areas, computers, and books. Our program leaders were very organized and because it was a smaller program, were able to meeting individually whenever we needed. They were consistently checking on us. They planned a wonderful orientation for the first month we were there that got us involved with the city and we got to know the other students better. I felt like by the end, the group leaders were like second parents. They were friendly and real nice!

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

My homestay was great. My host mom made all the food very fresh. She was aware of my food allergies and at the same time made traditional dishes so that I would be able to experience the food culture. They provided a great family-feel. We played video games and talked at every meal. My host parents checked up on me all the time making sure I was enjoying my experience. They encouraged me to go out a lot and made me sandwiches when I would travel. I encourage a homestay for the full study abroad experience. You come away feeling that you have more of a relationship with the city and that you want to go back. My host mom would clean my room twice a week and my house mate and i got to share our own bathroom. There was great wifi connection. The only thing was that my host mom asked if we would do our laundry at a laundromat because she had two sons. I understood because It would've been a lot.

The quality of my food was wonderful at the homestay. My host mom made all the food and I was happy with the variety. We ate healthy and traditional food.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

There was a great variety of social events. The university put on free concerts and events in the plaza for students. THIS WAS SO FUN. There were tons of night life because of all the students. Its a small city enough for us to walk everywhere. Thus, we didnt have to pay for cabs or public transportation.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Health issues weren't a problem because they were taken care of. My host family was aware of my allergies. I had no experience of my safety being violated. I could walk home alone at night and feel safe.

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

Do a language exchange by helping other students speak english and they help you with spanish. Stay with a host family because they are very open to practicing spanish and speaking slowly. It was a complete immersion. I used the language in everyday life when drinking a coffee in a cafe, doing laundry, etc. Most people spoke only spanish and didn't get frustrated if I was having trouble speaking. This was great and I realized it when I would travel to other parts of Spain that were very touristy. They would cut me off and start speaking english.

Select all that apply

• Host Family

Select all that apply

• Host Family

• I liked most the close community feeling of the program.

• The involvement with the community.