Southern Spain: No pasa nada Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The Spanish education system is much more relaxed than the American system, in that usually class attendance is not required, there is little if any homework throughout the semester, with usually only one final exam or project at the end of the semester, where you might be allowed to use notes or work with a partner. While I improved my Spanish extremely, I didn't learn all that much from the classes themselves.

On-site administration of your program

The International office was hard to access, as it was only open from 9 to 2 during the week and that's when most students are in class. However, my coordinator was very good about returning e-mails, and helped with everything from finding a doctor, to classes, to recommending a hotel for my family to stay in.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I loved living in a dorm with mostly local students. However our particular dorm was extremely strict, and I felt many of the rules were inappropriate for American students. For instance, boys and girls weren't allowed in each others rooms, the local students weren't allowed out at night without their parent's permission, and we often got in trouble with the maids for not keeping our rooms spotless everyday. It was also very far from the center of town, where the nightlife took place, and the buses stopped running at one, so we usually had to take an expensive cab to get home. Also we couldn't have visitors stay with us. However, the administration was very nice, as were the facilities. We had access to a pool and a gym, but laundry was very expensive.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Málaga felt extremely safe to me, especially after visiting bigger Spanish towns. It was big enough that there was always something going on, and small enough that you always met someone you knew walking down the street. The streets are busy and well lit at night, and I never felt threatened.

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

I spoke Spanish primarily with the Spanish students in my dorm, the administrators of the dorm, in class, and on the streets. Most Spaniards do not speak English, but the other European exchange students all spoke English.

Select all that apply

• Dorm

Select all that apply

• Americans
• International Students
• Local Students