Fantastic Time (with a couple of recommendations) September 11, 2023

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

I felt that the intensity of the class was minimal, and the resources were not great. However, I felt that the classes were quite difficult due to the fact that Middlebury requires only courses in Spanish to improve immersion.

On-site administration of your program

I felt that it was ok; however, I felt that speaking and listening were not emphasized enough in comparison to reading and writing.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Very unsatisfied. I lived in a residence recommended by the college, and each time I or any of my tripmates made a request of the residence, it was done slowly or not at all. The food and room quality was also poor.

The restaurants in the area were fantastic, but the dining halls at the residence and the school were subpar. There is also very little for breakfast options.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I felt very integrated in the general country; however, it was very difficult to get to know local students, especially when taking classes with students you already know.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I got sick for about a week, and had to go to the doctor, which actually you have to go to the hospital. It was a very slow process; however, I was a very low priority in the area.

I felt very safe, but that being said, Madrid is a city, so you do have to be mindful of what you are doing. Especially in places like local bars or clubs.

I would return to Madrid and stick with the Middlebury program; however, I would not take classes at the local university. It was a 45-minute one-way commute to the local university on trains that would not run on schedule. The Middlebury school is fantastic, and I would go all in there.

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

It was fairly easy; however, if you would like to experience more cultures, try local food, and travel, it gets harder.

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

Select all that apply

• Dorm

Select all that apply

• Local Students
• Americans
• International Students

Select all that apply

• Local Students
• Americans
• International Students

• Opportunities to Travel
• Cultural Experiences in Madrid
• Amazing new friends in the program

• Focus on Verbal Communication
• More assistance from Middlebury concerning UC3M
• Fewer mandatory meetings to discuss our experience

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