Dear Granada, My Spanish Dream Past Review

By (Business Economics with Accounting, University of California - Santa Barbara) for

ISA Study Abroad in Granada, Spain

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Independence and awareness of the fun and adventure surrounding me!

Personal Information

If you took classes at multiple universities, list those universities here: Univeristy of Granada, University of Malaga
How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 0-2 weeks

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

It was an excellently challenging, but FUN classroom experience. I not only learned how to utilize the Spanish language more naturally, but also was shown the true Spanish culture. We watched the bull runs, listened to traditional and current Spanish music, and completed short assignments with our host family. A somewhat heavy workload overall with the homework, but well worth it if you want to learn quickly!

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

They were excellent! They were always around and there for you if you needed. I really enjoyed the many events and explorations they set up, and the flamenco show at the end was amazing!

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I LOVED my host parents. They were the sweetest little couple, so warm and providing...they had the greatest hearts. My roommate even clogged the toilet and it overflowed! Papa and Mama were so kind, and I will definitely be back to see them someday. The nightlife in Granada was great!

* Food:

YUM!

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

Finances

* Money: How easily were you able to live on a student's budget?

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

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition?

Language acquisition improvement?

I spoke Spanish with my classmates, host parents, and locals all around me. Although some people understand English surprisingly fluently, it is fun to practice and speak it everywhere you go! People are really nice and helpful when they see that your making a sincere effort, and most people love to learn about their visitors :) I absolutely loved the warm Spanish welcome all throughout the land.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family

A Look Back

* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? IF YOU GO TO SOUTHERN SPAIN IN THE SUMMER, IT IS REEEALLY HOT! Do NOT pack HEAVY jackets or pants, because it is is hot all day, and all night long. Actually, don't pack too much of anything, because travel size is a MUST! When your in Europe, its CHEAP to fly everywhere...even to other countries! And the luggage limits are ridiculous...so pack lightly!