"Granada: A Beautiful and Historical City That Will Capture Your Heart" Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The homework load was significantly lower. Teaching methods varied just as they do here. Grading is on a 10 point scale.

On-site administration of your program

The ISA office was right around the corner from where our classes were. It was very convenient and they were always there to help answer your questions about the city or just to talk to. They were extremely helpful with choosing classes and pairing people with host families. The size of the program was large so I didn't get to know everyone, but you find smaller groups of people to hang out with through classes and excursions.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

My host family was amazing. They included my roommate and I as a member of the family. We were included in birthday celebrations and fancy holiday dinners with the extended family. The neighborhood was safe. It was slightly farther from the university, but it was nice to be a little bit away from everything. Probably about a 10-15 min walk to night life and 20-25 min walk to the university. I did not need to buy anything to settle-in. The cooking was incredible and I couldn't have asked for a better experience. They hosted my family when they came to visit and we still keep in contact.

I did not have any dietary restrictions but the food was amazing and there was so much of it. Breakfast is typically small--piece of toast or 2--but lunch and dinner were huge. There were some great Italian and Chinese restaurants around (ironically) and you can't beat the bars with free tapas! Being in a foreign country there are obviously some foods you won't find, but Spanish food is delicious. (don't be afraid to tell your host family what you do and don't like!)

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Go on all of the excursions! Trips to the mountains, nearby cities, and Morocco are awesome! A great way to get to know the staff and the country better and many of the trips are "paid for" in that you get to stay in a really nice hotel and usually get fed a meal or two. Our program organized a Thanksgiving dinner and created a movie as a recap for the year which was really cool to watch.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I didn't have any of health or safety issues so this one is hard for me to rate. The city was very safe but you obviously want to use some common sense. No vaccinations necessary but I do know that ISA is willing to accompany you to a doctor or health facility to help with communication if necessary.

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

The program helped me to significantly improve my Spanish, specifically the conversational component of the language. I was able to practice in class but also just on the streets, in stores, and at home with my host family. I needed to use the language everyday. Many people did speak English (especially at the university) so it is your responsibility to commit to speaking Spanish. I was also able to practice the language with an intercambio--Spanish student who helps me learn Spanish while I help them learn English. This is a great opportunity to take advantage of!

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• Host Family

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• Americans
• Host Family