Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Sevilla, Spain seems like paradise to me Past Review

By (Spanish Language and Literature, Fordham University) - abroad from 08/30/2012 to 12/17/2012 with

Sweet Briar College: JYS in Seville

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I enhanced my Spanish proficiency through the intensive course work I undertook over the past 4 months. Living in Spain gave me a deeper perspective of the world at large, while learning about the active Spanish culture I lived in. It was most certainly worthwhile. I regret almost nothing about the experience because it was an incredible opportunity.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 0-2 weeks

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

I took 4 classes based out of the University of Seville. The course work was not overbearing outside of the classroom environment, nevertheless it was challenging. All resources as far as books and research information were provided for us in either our program's office or by the university.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

They were extremely well organized and kept us continually updated about things going on with courses, travel, and extra-curriculars.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Initially, I was not satisfied with my housing. After 3 weeks of living, my roommate and I changed apartments and could not have been happier. It was the crux of my study abroad.

* Food:

My host family had excellent cooking.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I felt like the culture of Seville fostered a great environment to live in. I joined a rowing club in the city as well and getting the exposure to Spaniards everyday definitely brought me closer to knowledge and personal growth within the city.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I injured the fourth metatarsal in my left foot within the first month of living in Spain. My program set up an appointment with the personal doctor and they were very helpful. I was assisted immensely and recovered to full health with their help.

* Safety:

I never felt

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? $100
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Be careful when traveling because money is spent haphazardly at times. You should do some research prior to travel about where you are going to estimate costs.

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

We always had to speak Spanish when in our program's office and while attending events associated with our program. It was great for learning.

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? Intermediate
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 Language and Literature
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? Try to always talk in Spanish to the members of the program to learn as they learn. Also, getting involved in a club, team, extra class, or anything associated directly with the city helps with continually speaking Spanish

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
  • International Students
  • Host Family
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
  • International Students
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?
  • Host family selection
  • In Spain weekend trips
  • Selection of students
* What could be improved?
  • Extra-curricular activity aid
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I wish I took advantage of the semester's opportunities earlier than I did. I waited a little too long to get involved and before I knew it, my time was up. Also, I wish that I stayed in Europe a little longer after the program was complete.

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 Outright Urbanite
A social butterfly, you're happiest in bustling cities with hip people, and took advantage of all it had to offer. You enjoyed the nightlife, and had fun going out dancing, and socializing with friends. Fun-loving and dressed to the nines, you enjoyed discovering new restaurants, shops, cafes, and bars in your host country.