Past Review
By Evelyn L (Management Information Systems and Services., New Mexico State University) for
Spain Study Abroad Reflections: Comprehensive Reviews of Past Programs
This experience was a great one that I would gladly repeat. The knowledge and history of Spain that I gained made me value more my life here in the United States. There culture is one that is still young and expanding and very open minded. Many friendly people which became our friends made a huge impact on our lives. The relationships in the country are very different from ours and I believe it is one that works very well with them. I enjoyed it and I will be going back very soon.
Personal Information
| The term and year this program took place: | Summer 2009 |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
They place you where you are most comfortable and if the level you recieved is to hard they will gladly move you down a level and vise versa. |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
It was great. The school was small but you had the one to one connection with the teachers which allowed them to help you more with your understanding of the language. They gave us papers that helped us get around the city and worksheets to help us with the language. Teachers were always willing to help as well as the staff. Very friendly. |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
Our family was amazing. They were more than kind and they made sure we were comfortable. |
| * Food: |
Food for me is hard to adjust to in general but the food was pretty good. It was different to what I am usually used to but it was a great experience. |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
Spain has an astonishing and amazing social and night life. I couldn't keep up. |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
I got sick and going to the doctor was very simple and medication was cheap. |
| If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? |
No
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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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| Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? | Buy and go with all euros. I saw the other students spending a ridiculous amount of money going nowhere at the atm's. Also find the best exchange rate weeks before. |
Language
| Language acquisition improvement? |
My grammar was horrible before but now i have more of an understanding |
A Look Back
| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | Look and plan ahead. Reserve your plane and train tickets and book your hotels. Make sure your dates and times even out so you aren't left with one day that came unexpected. Over estimate on your cash funds and always ask questions to those who live there for the best way to get around or where to go. You will again save money and time. |
