Amazing! Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The grading system was on a scale of 1-8 which was kind of hard to get used to. The work load was not nearly that of my home university, but I was okay with that-- it was enough that I felt I got something out of my classes but also let me have time to travel, learn the language well, meet new people, and learn and experience the culture and history of the country I was in. I wouldn't have learned as much if my classes were extremely demanding.

On-site administration of your program

It was wonderful. The girls took care of us very well. They planned weekend excursions that were included in our study abroad tuition. We had an emergency and they took us to the hospital. They were very knowledgable and helpful about EVERYTHING, besides being personable. They were very accessible-- the office was right in the middle of the city right off the metro, very easy to find. If I remember correctly I believe we could reach them after-hours if necessary, but I never needed to.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The neighborhood was safe. One of the nicest in the city. It was in the suburbs where the wealthier families lived, but was still within walking distance to the metro, which meant easy access to classes, shopping, nightlife, etc... everything needed. I didn't need to buy anything. I had my own room and bathroom. My house mother was wonderful. She cooked for me often and took me places.

They eat tons of bread in Chile! Its such good bread too. My house mom knew I try to eat healthfully and was very accommodating. I had enough. I sometimes bought some of my own snacks to keep around, though.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

There were several special events coordinated by my program. Besides that, we took excursions of our own. I was able to make it to so many places. Arica (near the border of Peru), San Pedro de Atacama (amazing!), Pucon (climbed the volcano), Valparaiso, Patagonia, and many other places. I also made it to Mendosa and Buenos Aires in Argentina while I was down there. I traveled a TON, and would recommend anyone who stays in Santiago to do the same. There are inexpensive buses you can take almost anywhere and the airline LAN Chile is also affordable.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

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

With my host family mostly. The program also had a crash course we had to take the first week we got there which taught us things about the language that were specific to Chile, as well as some of the cultural things we needed to know. We were also required to take advanced spanish language and composition as well as a history of chile class. Both were very helpful and rewarding. I needed to use Chilean spanish every day, all day. My classes were all in spanish. Nobody ever spoke english to me for 5 months straight, unless I was on the phone with someone from home or talking with another study abroad student.

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• Host Family

Select all that apply

• Host Family