Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The hardest part about the classes was just getting used to their system. Classes were cancelled without warning or notification, very few books were available for classes, and they grade on a number system. But our classmates were incredibly helpful and sympathetic, and most professors were understanding. The workload wasn't too tough, but there was VERY limited internet for papers and libraries work differently there where you can't actually check out books, but you have to read them in the library. So it was definitely a challenge.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

We lived in a residence for foreign journalists. It was sort of a combination between a hotel and a dorm. We lived with Americans, but there were always journalists in and out. Getting sheets changed was sometimes a challenge, and the air-conditioner would be routinely shut off, but in a country where air conditioning is an extreme luxury, it wasn't so bad.

Cuban food is not good. Fruits and vegetables are only eaten in-season. Pork is the main meat of choice. When you're in a country with very limited resources, you just have to deal. Food shortages were fairly routine. Ice cream was always available, though. The vegetarians on our trip had an extremely difficult time getting food. Best place to eat for little money close to the residence: 17 and H. Best pizza was on Linea between 7 and 9.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Music was incredible, as were the arts in general. Museums are everywhere. Traveling to other parts of Cuba was also great. It is an absolutely beautiful country with more green than you can imagine.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Foreigners go to a separate hospital with air conditioning and...well, more attentive doctors. You won't have to wait as long as you would at an urgent treatment in the U.S. In terms of safety, since it is a police state, weapons are not allowed. Even a cork-screw is considered a weapon, so really, the worst thing that could happen to you is you get held-up. Don't travel alone at night, but mostly it was a safe neighborhood. It's also really common to hitch-hike as a means of transportation. It's legal and actually quite safe.

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

My Spanish has gotten exponentially better, as did my accent. Almost no one in Cuba speaks English, so we were always forced to use Spanish except in the residence. They spoke really fast, so now normal Spanish seems so much easier.

Select all that apply

• Other

Select all that apply

• Other

Select all that apply

• Local Students