Barcelona opened my eyes, to the beauty of the world!!! Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Overall, the educational system in Spain is different than what I am accustomed to in the United States. If was challenging at times yet rewarding when I was able to get a what is considered a high grade. The classes in Spain are more lecture basised with a independent study portion. It was difficult to adjust to at first but after a few weeks it was easy to manuver throughout the semester.

On-site administration of your program

I loved everyone that worked at the ISA office in Barcelona. All were very comforting as they knew what it felt to be away from family. I also enjoyed knowing that they not only wanted to help us through this expereince but wanted to learn about who we were and why we choose to study abroad. While in Barcelona I felt that the staff was my part of my exteneded family.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I loved my host family and the location where I lived. Both my roommate and I were lucky to be able to live in the Gothic area of Barcelona. This area not only contained the historic parts of the city but was filled with various shopping areas, resturants, and nightlife. The host family encouraged us to explore and visit the sites. My host family also introduced us to their family and took us various places around the city. I enjoyed being able to talk to my host family and explore what I would consider the best part of the city, the Gothic neighborhood.

The food in Barcelona is amazing. I would encourage any future student to explore and taste all that you can as the food in Barcelona is unique and will accomidate any persons tastes and preferances.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Barcelona is filled with attractions, anywhere from museums, to typical turist attractions, and festivals. My favorite festival while in Barcelona had to be La Merce. This festival is a week long festival filled with parades, food, dance, etc. This festival will introduce you to so many things that you will not see in the USA. I saw things such as the firerun, castellers, I would recommend this festival to anyone that comes!!

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I felt very safe while in Barcelona. Like every other city in the world it does have some issues but as long as you are aware of your surroundings and do not make a big scene than you should be okay. As the saying goes, do as the locals do.

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

Even though Barcelona is a metropolitan city and most people speak English it was not hard to find someone that I could practice my Spanish with. They are very proud people and will help you better your language skills. I was able to pratice my Spanish with my host mom, she was willing to help me perfect my skills.

Select all that apply

• Host Family

Select all that apply

• Host Family

• I love the city, and most of all the people I was able to share this experence with the most.

• I believe that this program could have some more group activites giving us the chance to learn more about the culture.