Santiago, Chile: So much more than just Spanish. Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Generally heavier emphasis on lecture, and specific application in my chemistry class, less theoretical approach than my home university. A sociology class I took was almost 100% lecture, with minimal discussion. Native language class at U de Chile was a joke (open-book, open-note exams) and boring. Spanish class through IFSA is really easy, with lots of busy-work; feels like a high school class. Grading in chemistry seemed tough on everyone, otherwise grading was pretty lenient. Workload wasn't too tough, depends on classes.

On-site administration of your program

IFSA has two great directors in Santiago. They are both very caring, interesting people who are dedicated to helping their students get the most out of their time abroad. The program provides some group excursions, which are fun and educate students about key parts of Chile's culture. I felt like the group size was great, the Santiago program tends to be between 10 and 20 students, we became like a family over the course of our time in Santiago. My time in Santiago exceeded all of my expectations and hopes for the program, I have no complaints.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I absolutely loved my host family, they became like real family to me. I have kept in contact with them after returning, and plan to continue to do so. My room was really small (5 feet by 7 feet) but I had no problem with it. The house was in a pretty good neighborhood, as was the case with all the host families provided by the program. I had to trek a bit to get to the best nightlife areas, but that didn't bother me any. There was a bus route that ran past my house, making travel to anywhere in the city easy. In general, I would highly recommend going with a host family. They might annoy you at times, but they really help with the language and give you insight to the country's daily life that you can't get living in an apartment full of exchange students.

My host mom wasn't a very good cook, and Chilean food isn't all that exciting. I never went hungry though, and was usually satisfied with what I was given. They have good seafood, empanadas, completos,and wine, though, all of which must be tried.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

We went on a weekend trip to La Serena, a beach town six hours north of Santiago, which was a really fun trip. I also really liked the trips to Valpo and Pomaire.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Generally, the worst you have to worry about is being robbed or pickpocketed. I heard of very little violent or aggressive crime while I was there. Out of the 15 students in my program, 1 was mugged and 2 had purses stolen. I felt completely safe walking by myself at all hours of the night. Chile is a healthy country in terms of diseases, I did not have to be vaccinated for anything like malaria or yellow fever before going. I had no health or safety incidents while I was there, and have minimal knowledge of their healthcare system, but imagine it is fairly well developed.

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

We were 'required' to speak Spanish the entire time. Among program members, we spoke mostly English, and at times with the American program director also. We lived with host families, who generally knew only minimal English, thus all communication was in Spanish. We were offered language partners, Chilean students who wanted to learn some English, with whom we could practice Spanish. We had to use Spanish in almost all interactions in the city, and in general. Classes were in Spanish, with mostly Chilean students. Most people know a little English, but few can use it to communicate.

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