100000% glad that I did it May 30, 2024

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

I thought that the Sede Prim classes were quite rigorous and interesting. The Autónoma classes were definitely a genuine Spanish public college experience, but I can't say that I enjoyed the content or the faculty resources.

On-site administration of your program

Wonderful community and space on-site at the Sede Prim. Supportive, kind, energetic, and welcoming. And organized.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

It was clean and comfortable for sure. I just felt that my relationship with my host mother was a hinderance and a distraction for my study abroad experience. Maybe I would have done better in a shared apartment. I felt like I was watched over and criticized excessively, and often felt uncomfortable at home. The only way that it worked was through the help that Sophia Iglesias offered at the Sede Prim.

I liked some dishes for sure but for the most part, I felt like I was being watched for how much I ate. However, part of this might have to do with the fact that I ate many of the dinners microwaved, since I often couldn't travel home for dinner in time.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I definitely had a good time exploring the city and talking with locals. However, Middlebury's school did form a bit of a bubble. It's isolating to be an international student no matter where you go. I did think that my classes at the Sede Prim helped me to learn more about Madrileño culture.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I got really sick sometimes and the Sede Prim was so helpful in directing me to the abroad insurance doctor and I was able to get treatment. The pharmacy was a bit confusing because there is a different system and structure compared with the US, but it was nothing that actually stopped me from getting care.

I didn't feel unsafe. Except for one time when a guy was following me home for the train. But he just wanted my number so I gave him my instagram and then blocked him. I heard a lot of people had their stuff stolen but thankfully that didn't happen to me. I felt mostly safe, even walking at night. But men are men everywhere. I would tell future students to be very cautious on the train and in touristy places. Most stories I heard were from those areas. Put your phone and money somewhere quite secure.

Middlebury is supportive and helpful! At times a bit helicopter parent-ish but it can be quite needed. Amazing classes at the Sede Prim. Definitely you should start developing social ties outside of the program immediately, since it can be a bit of a bubble. Helpful study buddies at Sede Prim though!

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

1 - It was very difficult to travel home to eat. I ended up eating out all the time because I needed to in order to remain social. I don't think that the study abroad dinner-with-family structure works AT ALL for me. Also those cafe con leches add up. But definitely worth it.

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

So much! There was a school culture of the language pledge, which was quite encouraging

Select all that apply

• Host Family

Select all that apply

• Host Family

Select all that apply

• Local Students
• Americans
• International Students

• The staff
• The support system
• The reembolsement

• The grammar classes
• tea could be available all the time
• the host family selection process/ OR support in finding an apartment