"Spain: Rewarding, Life-Changing, and Fun" Past Review
By Madeline J (History, Spanish, International Studies, University of Missouri - Columbia) for
Spain Study Abroad Reflections: Comprehensive Reviews of Past Programs
Yes, I gained fluency in Spanish and had a great time! I learned about the Spanish culture and fully blended into it without losing my American identity. I made friends in my university classes, chatted with locals in the central market, and talked with my Spanish neighbors every morning,
Personal Information
| If you took classes at multiple universities, list those universities here: | Universitat d'Alacant |
| How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | 2 weeks - 1 month |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
Workload was managable. Teaching methods were similar, except professors in Spain were MUCH more laid back then American professors. Grading system was European. 1-10 (5 and above is passing) |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
The strengths were the small, personal feel of the program, the support provided by Armando and Cynthia, the opportunities provided through them and through the university. Weaknesses were sometimes a lack of communication. |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
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| * Food: |
Spanish food is amazing. If you aren't willing to try it, then that is your problem. There is something for everyone and besides that, the food is healthy. |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
Fogueres was amazing. That was after most people had left though. I stayed extra to see it. |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
Spain is very safe for the most part. You just have to be aware of yourself and your surrounding. Drunk girls walking home by themselves is dangerous no matter what the country. |
| If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? |
Yes
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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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Language
| * Did your program have a foreign language component? | Yes |
| If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition? |
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Other Program Information
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* Where did you live?
Select all that apply |
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* Who did you live with?
Select all that apply |
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A Look Back
| * What did you like most about the program? |
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| * What could be improved? |
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