An experience that will continue to influence your path in human rights. Past Review
By Erika Rodriguez (University of Baltimore) - abroad from 06/19/2017 to 06/30/2017 with
Study Abroad Programs in Colombia
I learned how to use more professional Spanish when speaking in technical jargon about the Peacebuilding process. I also learned how business meetings are conducted in Colombia, and how issues like human rights are being addressed both in an office and in rural areas. I met lifelong friends and mentors, and it boosted my knowledge for my Master's thesis.
Review Photos
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. |
The program was engaging, it gave us real-world experience on the ground in Colombia, and allowed us to speak with people in leadership positions in some of the most influential organizations in the peace process. The program leaders were also incredible, and the Director went on to become my mentor throughout my Master's thesis and still stays in contact regarding my academic process. I am 100% satisfied with the entire experience. |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
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* Housing:
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
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* Health Care:
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| 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 |
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How much did the program encourage you to use the language?
0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language |
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| How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? | Fluent |
| How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? | Fluent |
| What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? | Bachelor's Degree in Spanish Language - C2, advanced |
| How many hours per day did you use the language? |
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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| 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? |
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| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | I wish I had scheduled to stay longer and do some volunteering. |
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 Nearly Native or Trail BlazerCraving the most authentic experience possible, perhaps you lived with a host family or really got in good with the locals. You may have felt confined by your program requirements and group excursions. Instead, you'd have preferred to plan your own trips, even skipping class to conduct your own 'field work.' |
