Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

An unforgettable adventure Past Review

By (Spanish Language, Literature, High School Graduate) - abroad from 09/01/2015 to 08/26/2015 with

Spain Study Abroad Reflections: Comprehensive Reviews of Past Programs

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned to be more independent and have self control especially since my parents were not around. I learned the real importance of knowing Spanish. It was worthwhile and I learned so much and I would like to return .

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.

* 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?

* 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)

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? I tried to save most of my money till the end of the trip so I could by gifts for friends and family and i tried not to eat out as much so i would not be spending my money as much.
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Try not to eat out as much, eat at home with your host family (if you happen to be staying with one)

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? Advanced
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Advanced
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? Spanish 4 ( United States) but my mother gave me spanish classes when I was younger and we speak around the house.
How many hours per day did you use the language?
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? Talk with your host families and try to talk with your friends and locals.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • International Students
  • Other
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with? 0

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Directors
  • University
  • Excursions
* What could be improved?
  • host family conditions
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? How hot it is during the summer, but it was worth it nonetheless. Granada is beautiful.

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!