Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Granada is a beautiful city, full of history and great views Past Review

By (Viterbo University) - abroad from 07/01/2017 to 07/29/2017 with

Spain Study Abroad Reflections: Comprehensive Reviews of Past Programs

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned a lot about the Spanish culture and the Spanish language which, ultimately, was my goal for the trip. I became more confident in my Spanish speaking skills and took several steps forward to becoming fluent. My experience abroad was very worthwhile.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 2 weeks - 1 month

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

I did not have a very good education experience. I had difficulties with the professors and their teaching style. The were extremely disrespectful to the students and did not appear to care about the students learning.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The program was very well planned. The activities and trips were spaced out perfectly and helped with the immersion process.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

My host mom was great. Not only was she a wonderful cook, but she was also very involved with me. She made sure that I got everywhere on time and gave me tips about the city and fun places to go and see.

* 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:

I felt very safe throughout the entire trip.

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? 75 Euros
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Eat the meals that your host mom prepares. Try not to eat out but definitely do not miss out on the great restaurants in town. Come with a budget and do not go over it. Do not party every night.

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
How many hours per day did you use the language?

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?
  • The beautiful sights, architecture and history of Granada
  • The ocean
  • Touring the Alhambra
* What could be improved?
  • Professors and the University
  • Communication between students and the director
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? The different teaching style of the Spanish professors

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!