Past Review
By Nikki (PSYCHOLOGY., New Mexico State University) for
Pablo de Olavide University: Seville - Multidisciplinary Studies Program
It was definitely worthwhile; I gained cultural knowledge and life experience-more within one semester than I ever had over the span of years. I cannot believe how many beautiful landmarks,gardens, parks, architecture, and natural wonders I have seen in so many places concentrated in one semester. I also learned notably more Spanish by being immersed in the culture and learning it practically, through usage, than I have in any classroom in the US.
Personal Information
| The term and year this program took place: | Spring 2009 |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
Very language intensive, but the cultural element was not very hands-on; I learned a lot of history and language, but professors seemed to think we were familiar with the city. |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
Not easily accessible to the center of the city and host mother doesn't help out with anything. |
| * Food: |
Host mother does not allow us to eat during the day except when and what she serves us and does not consider dietary preferences or needs. Served the same food over and over, and mostly bread, pasta, and potatoes with not a lot of fish or meat.I think it would be better if we didn't have to pay for food and were allowed to buy and cook our own. |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
Unlike other programs, we did not have any planned trips or activities with our program, other than those of the University itself, which were nice. |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
I didn't know where to go when I got sick, but felt safe, just like in any other big city. |
| If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? |
No
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Finances
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* Money: How easily were you able to live on a student's budget?
(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost) |
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| Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? | Since we prepaid for meals and housing, the only unexpected costs were the monthly bus pass for 30E necessary to get anywhere, expensive taxis when going out at night, and traveling anywhere where transportation, hostels (a good idea), meals, and entry fees add up exremely fast. |
Language
| Language acquisition improvement? |
Having to actually live in the country, you are forced to use and practice your language and learn how to really speak as opposed to textbook-speak. |
A Look Back
| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | Students who can fend for themselves, enjoy adventure, new experiences, and having fun would enjoy this program. |
