High Class living in Spain Past Review
By Gustavo B (Geography and Cartography., SUNY - Binghamton) for
Spain Study Abroad Reflections: Comprehensive Reviews of Past Programs
Open Minded.
Personal Information
| How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | 6 months+ |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
It was hard at first to get acquainted with the grammar and etiquette of the Spanish language. It is not similar spoken like in the Caribbean. The professor engaged the students to talk and be active in the class. For some, the technique was not helping them understand the language. |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
The program was well conducted. I love the types of excursions that were available for us to go see. I wanted to visit more places, but because of such short time there was not enough opportunities. |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
I loved my host family. She treated me like one of her own children. I learned a lot about the Spanish culture through here. If I ever have the chance to return to Spain I will definitely visit her. |
| * Food: |
I loved the Mediterranean diet presented to me. I just wish I could have taken the opportunity to go eat out more. I ate paella which originated in Valencia. I was glad to be part of the culture tradition in the area. |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
I would never forget my trip to Barcelona and Ibiza as I loved the atmosphere and exposure to the different cultures in the country. Each region of Spain has its own culture and style to it. |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
Valencia is a safe city. I felt at home and was able to blend in with the locals. The only problem I had was with Barcelona as it was known for thieves being in the streets constantly pickpocketing. |
| 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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| Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? | I spent about 100 euros a week. I spent most of my money on the weekends because that was when I went on excursions. |
| Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? | Do not spend your money on going to McDonalds and Burger King. I made that mistake. I should have spent it on local food so I can learn new Spanish dishes. |
Language
| 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?
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* Who did you live with?
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* Who did you take classes with?
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