Learn Spanish in the oldest university in Spain! Past Review
By Lauren S (Economics & Management, Albion College) - abroad from 08/21/2006 to 12/22/2006 with
Instituto Franklin-UAH: Alcalá de Henares - Study Abroad in Spain
Studying abroad is most definitely worthwhile. It teaches one patience, perseverance, and gives a new perspective.
Personal Information
| How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | 0-2 weeks |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
Some classes were more challenging than others, however most importantly, my Spanish grammar class was very thorough and helped immensely in cementing my understanding and usage of the subjunctive tense (usually the most difficult for English speakers). |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
The program was completely supportive. Anything that we needed was addressed immediately a completely. |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
I opted to live with a host family, and I would rate this as the best part of my study abroad experience. I am still in touch with my host mother to this day, and even went back and visited in 2008. |
| * Food: |
The program did not provide the food, per se, however it did guarantee three meals a day with my host family. Even when I went out on day trips my host mother took this responsibility very seriously, and would pack me lunches and snacks to take along. She respected my tastes in food and offered a variety of options. She also liked me to come along shopping so I could show her what foods I preferred. |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
I was able to make many different friends though the "intercambio" program offered, and still keep in touch with a few. Additionally, my host mother introduced me to her extended family. |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
I didn't use much health care, however did have a cold that I went to the doctor for. My program director accompanied me to make sure I felt comfortable. It was a different experience as the doctor did not examine at all; he simply interviewed me about my symptoms and prescribed a tablet that dissolved in a glass of water. No particular vaccine were needed for this program. |
| * Safety: |
I always felt very safe in Alcala de Henares. Just like anywhere else you have to be smart and protect yourself. There was a park near my house that was frequented by drug users after dark, so I was warned to avoid it. I always made sure to travel in groups and let people know where I would be. |
| 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) |
I found myself spending a lot of money, however I had the support of my family and was able to do so. I could have gotten by on less, but the value of the dollar at that time was weak compared to the euro, so I could see it being tougher. |
| Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? | Unsure |
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 |
Our program director really encouraged us to get to know the locals and not spend all of our time with other Americans. We were encouraged to always speak Spanish, even amongst ourselves. Some took more heed than others. My biggest piece of advice would be to avoid the temptation of staying in your comforts zone. |
| 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? | Fluent |
| What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? | 400 |
| How many hours per day did you use the language? | 10+ |
| Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? | I found it helpful to chat online with native speakers. There also good websites like livemocha.com to practice, or apps like duolingo. The best way to learn a language is to use it in a way that you enjoy, so try listening to music, watching tv/movies, reading, etc in the target language. |
Other Program Information
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* Where did you live?
Select all that apply |
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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 could be improved? |
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| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | I wish I would have been able to relax a little earlier into the program. The first month or so is a big culture shock, but once you get past that, it really is the best time of your life. Try to let go and sink in, as it will pass all to quickly! |
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.' |
