La Republica Dominicana Past Review
By Izzie N (Latin American Studies., University of Nebraska- Lincoln) for
ISA Study Abroad in Santiago, Dominican Republic
It opened my world greatly to new perspectives and problems.
Review Photos
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 |
|
* Who did you live with?
Select all that apply |
|