Culture and Language immersion Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

It seems as though it was a rough semester at the University of Puerto Rico when I was attending. There were strikes going on, and it affected the students greatly. Also, I think everyone was just a little bit unorganized because of that reason. This is NOT to say that all my teachers were bad... I did have some good classes, and I did learn.

On-site administration of your program

I really liked the NSE program. It's easy to join, and if you're accepted, they make it easy for you. I was able to pay my home university while attending the other, which definitely made things easier. I have to say that my expectations were met with this program.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I was paying $220 for the semester to live in "Torre del Norte"... and it's conditions equal what you're paying. It's not very classy, and it's hot most of the time. I don't think they keep the building in good shape at all, although it is livable, and cheaper than other options. Also, the people there were all friendly and they're always having some event going on around you. The neighborhood was decently safe, although I wouldn't walk around alone, and the nightlife is about what you'd expect (with some added Jazz and Salsa dancing :-D )

I loved Puerto Rican food. They use a lot of plantains in many different ways. One of my favorite meals was Mofongo (which is shredded plantains with rice and meat). The food can be expensive, but you'll find a lot of cheap places. They also have a lot of familiar fast food chains (there are a million burger kings), and other restauraunts.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

There are a lot of cultural events going on, and our NSE coordinator actually arranged two field trips (one to go Zip-lining through a forest and the other to a secluded beach). The trips were completely free and included food! There are always events and plays going on as well (especially in San Juan, which is only a short bus ride away).

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I felt pretty safe, you just have to make sure you're not walking around alone at night. They also have a clinic on campus which is pretty reliable, although they make you wait a while.

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

I think that my language skills have definitely improved in the ways of "comfortability." It helped to reinforce what I already knew, and I learned a lot along the way. (although there's a lot of slang there... but It's interesting). Overall, I would say that as long as you force yourself to use the language, you'll learn a lot.