My Most Formative Experience Yet August 02, 2023

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

I was very pleased with my overall educational experience. I took two courses at the Sede Prim (one language and one content). These two classes helped to advance not only my linguistic skills but also my cultural immersion as I was able to learn and discuss important conversations that are occurring in Spain today. I also took two Sociology courses at UC3M. These two courses were more difficult and had different structures than what American students are used to. Nevertheless, I was content with all the support that was made available through Middlebury.

On-site administration of your program

The Middlebury in Spain program administration was amazing. Everyone was helpful and made themselves available as needed. In addition, the initial orientation that they provided was robust and included a lot of details and tips that were very helpful knowledge to have beforehand. I also really liked how they contracted local students to help us integrate into Madrid.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Prior to arrival, a strong emphasis was placed on the value of booking housing through Aluni. I personally wish I knew that it'd be much better to go to Spain first and then find housing through assistance from helpers. I was somewhat satisfied with my living arrangements with roommates, but knowing that many students elect to travel first and then find housing would've been helpful since I could've found a room that was worth how much I was paying.

The food in Madrid was amazing. Coming from New York City, I felt very comfortable with pricing in restaurants. Moreover, the app The Fork is particularly useful as I was able to get discounts up to 50% at many restaurants across the city. Due to this, I mainly ate out and didn't cook much at home. However, I'd definitely recommend learning how to cook basic meals if you'd like to save money.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

The "ayudantes" or assistants were like Big Sibs that helped students integrate into Madrid when we first arrived. I really liked how that system helped us connect with Spanish counterparts that were similar in age.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I visited the medical center a few times during my stay and never had any issues. The initial orientation that Middlebury staff provides is very helpful for easily navigating the system.

Madrid is a very safe city and I never had any issues. The only thing to keep in mind is that people may approach you in touristy areas (especially on weekend nights) and it's best to keep walking instead of engaging.

I would definitely choose the same program again.

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

Navigating Madrid financially depends entirely on lifestyle and what you are used to spending in your own city. Coming from New York City, y money went a lot further in Madrid and so I did not feel the need to budget strictly. Nevertheless, I was able to easily live on a student's budget due to the low costs of food and personal expenses. I'd also recommend having a reserve of savings is also helpful in order to be able to take advantage of traveling opportunities.

0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language

The Language Pledge

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• Apartment

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• Local Students

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• Local Students

• Opportunities to travel
• Resources to find extracurricular activities (ex. pottery)

• De-emphasizing Aluni for housing

The Outright Urbanite