The best Study Abroad Program in Chile Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Only one of my classes really had exams. The rest had papers. the workload wasn't too bad, except for in one of my classes because our professor was really demanding and it was only an elective. Overall there weren't too many differences in the educational system.

On-site administration of your program

The program director, Isabel Yevenes, is amazing! She is incredibly helpful and will do anything in her power to make sure you have a great experience while abroad.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I lived on the 11th floor of an apartment building in Nunoa in Santiago. Nunoa is a peaceful, middle class neighborhood and I felt very safe walking around alone at night. The apartment itself was adorable! I had my own room and bathroom and my host parents were seriously the nicest people ever. They treated me like their daughter and we still continue to talk. They insist I come back down to visit them and they want to come to Texas. <br /><br /> My host family's apt was located in Nunoa which is a peaceful middle class neighborhood. However it is also great for going out. There are bars and restaurants close by. Also, the public transportation in Santiago is INCREDIBLE!! There was a bus stop right next to my house and I just took a bus to a metro in order to get to class. Or sometimes just a bus.

My host family fed me a TON of food! It was also a lot of meat, which I'm not used too. But overall it was all very good.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

IFSA-Butler was great! We went on trips to Valparaiso/Vina del Mar, to La Serena, to a vineyard to pick grapes, to Pomaire, and many excursions in Santiago. We were exposed to a lot of different cultural events and all were a lot of fun. It was great because you got to learn about the different cultures in Chile while bonding and hanging out with everyone in the group.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Pick pocketing is common throughout Latin America. There aren't really very many violent crimes, but theft is common. You just have you be careful and watch your stuff. Use common sense. There were no major health issues and if you got sick the director went with you to the doctor and IFSA-Butler's health insurance would reimburse you.

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

Everyone in Chile speaks Spanish. I lived with a host family who also didn't speak any English so having to speak Spanish every day at home and in the classroom improved my Spanish skills immensely.

Select all that apply

• Host Family

Select all that apply

• Host Family