An Enchanting Chilean Experience Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Towards the beginning of my studies in Chile I found the classes to somewhat intimidating being that one of my classes were constituted by a majority of Chilean students. At that time it was still quite difficult to understand the colloquialisms and accents. Also, all classes were conducted at least 90% of the time in Spanish. This method of immersion, however, proved to be the most beneficial for my acquisition of the language and culture. The work load was not exhausting and there was plenty of time for the maintenance of a social life and other extra curricular activities. The grading system was based on pass/fail evaluations and all professors seemed to be relatively explanatory of what they expected. The main difference that I noticed between our American educational system and that of the Chilean is that there was no on-campus housing. Most students either lived at home with their parents or found other families with whom they stayed. Course tutoring and other forms of academic help were present at all times.

On-site administration of your program

The on-site administration of ISA in Valparaiso, Chile was spectacular. The group of students I traveled with was relatively large but we always had access to our leaders. All excursions were organized very well and good communication was always maintained. Academic and personal support services were more than sufficient. The leaders were equipped with extensive knowledge of many aspects of the country and culture.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Although my housing was not located in the safest sector of the city, the specific home in which I stayed had adequate security and was very explicit in setting the rules and providing me with helpful information on how to maintain my safety. Also, given that it was not the "safest sector", I was able to observe in a more intimate sense the diversity of the culture. The bedrooms were of average to large sizes, and all beds came sheets, blankets, and pillows. We had clean water and never lacked any type of "necessity".

I was cooked three decent meals daily, and I was more than satisfactorily accommodated for the allergies that I have (which was a difficult task in Chile being that they consume much fish and other sea foods which I could not).

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I traveled to Buenos Aires, Argentina as well as Colonia, Uruguay. Traveling through various cities within the Southern Cone was a wonderful experience. It was a great opportunity to better comprehend the differences and similarities between South American cultures. Within Chile, I also traveled to the southern town of Pucon. There, I accomplished things that I will most likely never come to do again. As a group, we climbed a volcano, canopied, white water rafted, and spent time with local residents (although it is primarily a town that thrives due to its tourism).

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

In Valparaiso it is very important to walk in groups of at least three during evening and night hours. Any safety problems that might have occurred during my stay took place when students were walking alone or late at night. Also, it is necessary to never leave your belongings unattended. Unfortunately, criminals in Valparaiso are very good at stealing things like cell phones, wallets, backpacks, and anything else of value that is kept nonchalantly by its owners. In regards to night life and alcohol consumption, it is always a good idea to stay alert throughout the night. I witnessed a few fights and uncomfortable physically sexual advances against women students who were not as careful as they should have been. When a person does not fully understand a foreign culture, a smart decision would be to remain slightly more conservative in dress and attitude than they might in their native country. Just like the night life of any major city, crime, violence, and other unfortunate events are more likely to occur given the late hour and the influence of alcohol.

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

The program greatly encouraged that its students practice the host country's language. They communicated all important information in English, but also attempted to speak throughout most informal settings in Spanish. Many of the students chose to socialize with other international students in English, but we also made an effort to incorporate host family members and other Chilean friends in our activities.

Select all that apply

• Host Family

Select all that apply

• Host Family
• Local Students
• Americans