La Republica Dominicana Past Review

By (Latin American Studies., University of Nebraska- Lincoln) for

ISA Study Abroad in Santiago, Dominican Republic

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
It opened my world greatly to new perspectives and problems.

Review Photos

International Studies Abroad (ISA): Santiago - Language, Culture & Caribbean Studies Photo International Studies Abroad (ISA): Santiago - Language, Culture & Caribbean Studies Photo

Personal Information

If you took classes at multiple universities, list those universities here: Pontificia Universidad Catolica- Madre y Maestra
How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 2 weeks - 1 month

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Everything was much more laid back in the DR; classes never began on-time, teachers were much less strict and demanding, class was a lot easier than in the US. Sometimes I hoped for a little more of a challenge, but then again, taking all of our classes in Spanish was definitely a challenge most of the time. It was also nice not to have to worry so much about class and spend time with our host families, friends, and learning about a new culture.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I absolutely loved my host family; I could write a novel on the amazing experience I had with them. I feel truly blessed that I got to live with such a loving and helpful family.

* Food:

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I hung out a lot at the local Colmado; I had a great time getting to know the locals there and the boys that worked there were so much fun to be around.

* 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
Language acquisition improvement?

I practiced the most with my host family. Lots of people spoke English, but I wouldn't say most. I only spoke English with Americans, otherwise it was essentially a language immersion.

If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition?

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family