Intense immersive experience into the Spanish culture and language July 13, 2025

By (Neuroscience, Wellesley College) - abroad from 02/01/2025 to 05/28/2025 with

PRESHCO: Study Abroad in Córdoba, Spain

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
My study abroad experience in Spain was incredibly rewarding. Although I’m a native Spanish speaker and didn’t face language barriers, I gained a much deeper understanding of regional cultural nuances, local customs, and the day-to-day lifestyle in Spain. It also gave me the chance to connect with students from around the world, which helped me grow personally and socially. Overall, it was 100% worthwhile—I left with unforgettable memories, new perspectives, and lasting friendships.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 6 months+

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* Food:

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Preshco made sure to organize events for students that promoted cultural integration, such as a private tour to Alhambra, or a Flamenco show in Sevilla. Having participated in such events, as well as city tours to Bilbao, among other cities, have provided a deeper understanding of the Spanish culture, especially as a Latina, it was interesting to learn more about the culture.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

Finances

* 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)

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
How much did the program encourage you to use the language?

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

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? Fluent
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Fluent
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? N/A
How many hours per day did you use the language? 10+

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • Americans
  • International Students
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with?

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Cultural Activities and Trips
  • The People
  • The Balance of Structure and Independence
* What could be improved?
  • N/A
  • N/A
  • N/A
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? A bit more detail ahead of time about housing options, local customs, or typical schedules would have helped with expectations and planning. But overall, I wish I had known how fast the time would fly by! I would have planned even more personal excursions or made a list of “must-sees” early on. Also, while I didn’t face language barriers, I realized there are many regional dialects and slang that are worth brushing up on before arrival.

Reasons For Studying Abroad

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The Outright Urbanite
A social butterfly, you're happiest in bustling cities with hip people, and took advantage of all it had to offer. You enjoyed the nightlife, and had fun going out dancing, and socializing with friends. Fun-loving and dressed to the nines, you enjoyed discovering new restaurants, shops, cafes, and bars in your host country.