Barcelona: An Experience of a Lifetime Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The classes I took were very interesting and related well to my major. The work load for me was light, however, it depends on the teacher. My only complaint was the lack of communication between professors and students in regards to assignments and tests.

On-site administration of your program

The ISA office was very accessible and right in the heart of Barcelona which made it very convenient for picking up packages and hanging out with other ISA students. All the staff went above and beyond to make our study abroad experience wonderful and were there to help with any questions or concerns.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

My roommate and I had our own room which was extremely nice and allowed us our individual space. The neighborhood had two metro stops within 5 blocks which provided access to anywhere in the city. I felt as though the neighborhood was safe and very residential with lots of supermarkets and other random shops. We were a 20 minute walk to main street with all the bars so it was easy to get home at night. Our host mom was very sweet and accommodating, however, my roommate and I did not see eye to eye with her on everything which did cause a few problems during our stay.

Her food was below mediocre which required us to purchase food elsewhere quite frequently adding to the expense of the trip. Food at grocery stores if fairly cheap in comparison to the United States which was nice. There is a great place down in Barceloneta called Bo de B and it serves sandwiches and patates bravas which are unbelievably amazing!

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Our program provided two overnight trips and also a couple day trips for us around Barcelona. This was a great way for us to travel to those places that we might not have done without the program. The social aspect of the program was amazing and you meet friends immediately and they will become life long friends beyond study abroad. Barcelona is an amazing city and encourages social interaction both during the day and at night.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

The city is safe as far as your well being or being in danger. However, Barcelona is world renown for its pick pockets so it's absolutely crucial to make sure all purses and backpacks are zipped and close to you, especially on the metro or in crowded areas.

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

I lived with a host mother so I was required to speak Spanish everyday at home, especially at dinner. Also when at restaurants and stores I used the language to order and purchase things.

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• Host Family
• Hotel

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• Americans
• Host Family