Modern Culture and Historic Roots: Studying Abroad in Alcalá de Henares Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The grading system followed the American system, which was nice. I loved that the teachers and the program director were all local because it allowed you to become immersed in the culture and learn about Spanish history and literature (or whatever you study while there) from actual Spanish people, who know Spain and its different language divisions and its divided national character first-hand.

On-site administration of your program

The director and her assistant for this program were amazingly helpful. They always were accessible and able to help with questions regarding anything from ideas for weekend plans classes. Plus, the staff was incredibly friendly and personable.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

My location was perfect. I was about a 15 minute walk from the university and right next to the train station, although this varied depending on where the host family lived. My host family was great and welcomed me into their home like I was a member of their family. This was one of the most exciting and rewarding parts of the program.

The food made by my host mom was always delicious. One of my favorite places to go out to eat was La Española (or la Españolita) right near the school because you could buy a tapa and a drink for only 2.50 euros! A great part of the experience abroad was exploring the cities we visited (and Alcalá itself, of course!) and eating in different restaurants, where you could talk to the waiters and improve your Spanish interacting with locals and make new friends!

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Valencia: Valencia is a fantastic city. The beach/Meditteranean is beautiful, and you should definitely visit the Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias if you get a chance. We were there during a cultural festival, so I got to see a show with cultural dances and flamenco. Also, make sure to explore the city if you go. We found the nicest little restaurant a bit of a walk away from la Plaza de la Reina, where we became friends with the waiter and ate really cheap but delicious paella... In other words, explore a little bit rather than eating just in the main tourist areas. Toledo: Toledo is an amazing city where you feel like you are taking a walk through history. The trip was required for one of my classes, so the teacher taught us and gave us a tour of the city, but we were also given free time. The city was so beautiful and interesting, but my host mom said it's even more beautiful at night, when everything is lit up. I wish I had gotten to see it because Toledo was by far one of my favorite cities! Madrid: We were given a tour of Madrid toward the beginning of the program so that we would be familiar with the area. It was a great introduction to the city, to which I returned many times. Alcalá: Of course, Alcalá. This city is amazing. The tour that our program gave us at the beginning definitely allowed me to appreciate the city so much more. It is so full of both history and life. For one of my classes, we visited the Casa de Cervantes and the Corral de Comedias. The Corral de Comedias was really interesting because you get to learn a lot about the interesting history of one of the attractions of Alcalá. Also, make sure to explore the many buildings of the university itself. You will be amazed by the history!

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I never had any safety or health issues or concerns.

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

The host family was a great tool for improving Spanish speaking ability, and speaking to locals definitely helped to raise my confidence in my ability to speak the language. However, many of the American students were not dedicated to practicing the language and began to speak English again about halfway through the program.

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• Host Family

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• Host Family

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• Americans