Happy in Spain! Past Review
By Brandie V (Political Science, Boise State University) for
ISA Study Abroad in Málaga, Spain
It really opened my eyes to a different culture and allowed me to truly immerse myself in the language. I now hope to work with international exchange students in the hope that I can help provide a great experience similar to what I had.
Personal Information
| How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | 2 weeks - 1 month |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
Teach methods were fabulous - very great for focusing on learning a language. The grading was very different though - only one test per month that determines your entire grade for the month, and the test is meant to challenge you in things you may not be familiar with. |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
Support services were incredible, with a 24/7 on call number for emergencies. They were also willing to go with you and translate if needed (for example, to visit a doctor). |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
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| * Food: |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
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| If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? |
Yes
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Finances
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* 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) |
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Language
| * Did your program have a foreign language component? | Yes |
| Language acquisition improvement? |
The classroom was 100% spanish-speaking so you used it every day in the classroom (most teachers didn't speak english fluently). However, the program directors did speak english and were always available if needed. |
| If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition? |
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Other Program Information
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* Where did you live?
Select all that apply |
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* Who did you live with?
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A Look Back
| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | Your classes will all be with "extranjeros" - people who are there to learn Spanish. So you might find it more difficult to make "native" friends, but you'll make friends from all over the world and the only language you have in common will be Spanish. |
