Barcelona: The best semester of my life! Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

I expected the teaching methods I received in Barcelona to be different then that of my home university. I felt like one teacher expected us to retain a lot of information but for the rest of the teachers, I learned so much about Spain and especially about the region of Catalunya, that of which I was living in.

On-site administration of your program

I had a blast! By far the best experience of my life. I think our program was the perfect size. I heard from others in different programs that had 200+ students had a completely different experience then I did with our 30 student program. I loved our directors, they personable and so much fun to be around.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Our neighbors did not bother us too much. We had a few incidents but nothing major. Our apartment was amazing! We were in a wonderful neighborhood with many bars and the metro nearby. Towards the end when it was cooler outside, we had a problem with the heat because the heat was not turned on and we did not know how to work it.

We cooked a lot in our apartment. I love trying new things so food was not an issue for me. For students with dietary restrictions, food might be an issue and hard to find that is suitable. Food portions are smaller and Spaniards eat late lunches (around 2pm) and late dinners (around 10pm). Restaurants are usually closed between 4-9.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

There is not enough room to explain all of the memories or trips that made my trip special. Every day was a different experience as well as a day to grasp and remember. I made life long friends from all around the world that mean the world to me. I would advise to future students to really immerse themselves in the culture even if they are not comfortable and I personally made it a goal to make a ton of friends that were locals.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I am from Chicago and can comfortable say that I have a better chance of someone mugging me or jumping me in Chicago then I do in Barcelona. Barcelona is a very safe city and you must be aware of your surroundings, if you try to blend in, pickpockets tend not to target you so much, but in no way does that mean not to be aware of pickpockets, they are sneaky. Medicine does not work the same way that it does in the US, you have to go to the pharmacy for any medication, deodorant, feminine products, etc. These items are not found at the local "supermarket".

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

Practiced language skills in class, with local friends, and at restaurants and bars. I roommates did not speak Spanish so I spoke with them in English and I also spoke English sometimes with my intercambios partners and other locals I met that wanted to practice their English.

Select all that apply

• Apartment
• Hostel

Select all that apply

• Americans

• Planned trips
• Size of group
• University Enviorment

• More access to locals
• More trips
• More blankets in the apartment