Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

I learned about the differences and similarities public health structures December 07, 2022

By (Health Science and Social Policy, Brandeis University) - abroad from 08/29/2022 to 12/12/2022 with

SIT Study Abroad: Argentina - Public Health in Urban Environments

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Yes, i learned to research a countries key indicators of a lot of things before going.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? None

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The excursions were the best because it allowed you to learn about the challenges and health structures from the professionals themselves!

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Ran into some conflicts with house but everything was revolved swiftly. It is important to speak up about regarding your needs.

* Food:

The food in Argentina is a little bland and not condimented like in other latin American cultures. But if you go to more rural areas and indigenous locations you will have the best empanadas of your life.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

HANDS DOWN THE BEST PART OF ARGENTINA IS ITS PEOPLE AND THE SOCIAL LIFE!

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Public health care is not the best; there were shortages and long waiting times. I wish study abroad programs covered student’s with Obra Sociales or Prepaid Insurance for faster and more effective care

* Safety:

I felt safe in CABA. Just be cautious of pick pocketers and motorcycle drivers while you have your phone in your hand. Preferably everything in your backpack and with your backpack facing forward

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

For a second trip i would choose another country but you learn a lot about Argentina outside of its health structures. Like about the economy and social conditions.

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)

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? 300-400 dollars for the whole trip

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

All the time; the courses were in spanish

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? Spanish for Native speakers
How many hours per day did you use the language? 10+
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? Duolingo, go to latino places. Listen to bad bunny lyrics

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

  • Americans
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?
  • Excursions
  • Stipends for food
  • Research/internship
* What could be improved?
  • N/a
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Research inflation and how it impacts the Argentinians lives

Reasons For Studying Abroad

To help future students find programs attended by like-minded individuals, please choose the profile that most closely represents you.
The Academic or Linguist
You went abroad with specific academic goals in mind; the program credentials and rigor of your coursework abroad were very important to you. You had a great time abroad, but never lost sight of your studies and (if applicable) were diligent with your foreign language study. Good for you!