Patagonia and Antarctica: An inspiring semester in Ushuaia, Argentina February 11, 2025

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Topics covered include the geological formation of the area, the marine and terrestrial biology of the area, and the history of the Tierra del Fuego Indigenous peoples. I will say that the Spanish classes are less so about grammatical concepts and more about practicing conversation. However, the professors are very open to feedback and will tailor lessons to your wants early in the semester.

On-site administration of your program

The directors' support is extremely helpful, starting from your orientation week and all throughout the semester. I had a lot of fun getting to know them and experiencing the wonderful trips and experiences they plan alongside the SIT group. They are all very knowledgeable about Ushuaia and are full of recommendations/ share information about cultural events that are happening throughout the city.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I had an amazing time staying with my host family. They accepted me on the spot and were very accommodating to my language level and interests throughout the program. I had my own room within the house and my own bathroom. All students have their own rooms (maybe not bathroom). The program puts a lot of thought into the matches for host families and students, but if you are struggling with your host family, the directors are very receptive to solutions for any problems. They want to help you be as comfortable as possible and support you for a successful and enjoyable semester.

Argentine food is more than just the big parillas with all of the assortments of meat. Everyday meals stem more from german/italian influence. There are lots of restaurants on the main street and they bring a nice variety. I think it is possible to be vegetarian while in Argentina, but there are still challenges in Argentina.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

My host family and the program directors were very informative about different events that were occurring throughout the city. It is very easy to get around, go to the different bars and boliches, and explore the nature that surrounds the city.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Ushuaia is super safe. As a woman, I felt comfortable walking 30 minutes to my house alone at 2am in the morning after going out. People are very kind, it's easy to get an uber and/or taxi to go places you want, as well as the bus system is dependable to get around the city in.

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

The budget given to you by the program was plenty for lunch and a snack every day (what it's budgeted for). However, if you bring lunch from home and/or buy cheaper lunches, you'll have money left over at the end of the program for souvenirs and such. I would recommend bringing some extra money in case you want go out for dinners, traveling extra, gear rental for outdoor activities, etc.

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

Classes were taught in Spanish and the host family component was full immersion. 4/5 stars because there was no contract or incentive to talk with peers in the program in Spanish.

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• Host Family

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• Host Family

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• Americans

• People
• Experiences
• Nature

• Immersion with students

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