Experience Independence Abroad Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The academics were not exceptionally rigorous. However, studying at the Universidad de Salamanca provided an excellent insight into the Spanish university system and educational culture. On the other hand, a lighter academic load allowed for more city exploration and learning opportunities outside of the classroom.

On-site administration of your program

The on-site staff was very helpful! Whether I was searching for a good hotel or restaurant in the area or trying to see a doctor, the staff was more than willing to assist me. Also, while providing necessary guidance, they were great about allowing students to really develop an independence and self-sufficiency abroad.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I stayed in the student dorms, which was an interesting experience. I loved the freedom and independence it allowed. Also, the opportunity to buy groceries and really experience living independently abroad was something I would definitely choose to do again. The only reason why I am not giving a 100% review is that the check out procedures were rather unclear and this left me feeling a bit uncomfortable.

Loved the food! Because I was in a dorm, I was able to cook my own breakfast and supper. Lunch was almost always at one of three university dining options. Lots of seafood, meat, rice. Not a lot of vegetables and definitely not a lot of raw vegetables. If you are looking for a vegetarian diet, Spain may not be the place for you. However, pescatarian or otherwise should be fine. Additionally, I have a gluten intolerance and there were so many options and restaurants willing to be resourceful for me. Also, there is a cute little gluten free bakery called Mundo Celiako that makes the best gluten free magdalenas and other baked goods. Definitely worth the trip!

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Citizens of Salamanca are incredibly welcoming. Within a few weeks of arriving, I found myself invited to Spanish birthday parties and other social events. Another great option for integration is the intercambio program in which you meet with a native Spanish speaker for an hour weekly and teach each other English and Spanish. I met with a 38 year old woman who really gave me excellent insight into what it is like to live in Spain.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Health care was excellent. I fell sick with a bad case of strep throat and, with the help of the IES staff, had no problems seeing a doctor and getting the antibiotics I needed. An added plus is that through the program's required health insurance, after I returned home I was able to submit my receipts from the clinic visit and the pharmacies and receive a full refund.

I have never felt so safe in my life. Salamanca has very low crime rates. A great piece of advice is to keep a close eye on your belongings. While I was never robbed, the owner of one of the bars I was visiting demonstrated how easy it is to steal cell phones or other personal belongings off of tables. Keep your phone in your pocket and your purse within sight!

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

In Salamanca it could be very easy to live on a student's budget. While the country is on the Euro, prices are shockingly low within the city. Groceries were very inexpensive and one could easily partake in the social life without breaking the bank. Most of my expenses came from traveling or from buying things such as coffee on a daily basis. Cafe con leche, the best coffee in the world, was only 1 euro in most places!! How could a person say no?

0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language

All of my classes were in Spanish and the program had a "Club de Espanol" in which members were challenged to speak strictly Spanish.

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