Mi Querida Argentina: Study Abroad Buenos Aires Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The workload was perfect for being abroad. I thought the professors gave a fair amount of out of class work to assist in our learning, but not too much so that we were overwhelmed with the balance between school and the fun of studying abroad. The grading system was much different than an American education system. It was based on a 1-10 scale, 10 equivalent to a 4.0, and 4 was the lowest grade before failing. I thought it was a much easier system than my home University. Overall, attending class was the biggest benefactor in my learning. The professors were engaging and taught the material in an interesting way. The classes were much smaller than my home University, which made the classroom time more interactive and I loved that.

On-site administration of your program

Amazing program. GSE took care of ALL of our needs. Our on-site director was incredible, and really went out of the way to make us feel comfortable. He took us on all of our excursions and cultural events and helped integrate us into the culture. I have no complaints about the On-site director. He took us to the doctor when we were sick, and really treated us like family

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Bedding, towels, and cookware were all provided. The landlord's wife came every Saturday to clean the apartment as well. They took great care of us, even bought us extra blankets when it was cold and delivered them to our apartment.

The food was amazing! It was also very cheap. You could get a delicious steak meal for only $10. There was quite a variety of restaurants, and it was all great and affordable. A couple favorites: Miranda- great salmon and steak, Las Cabras- best parilla in Buenos Aires, fun atmosphere!, and A Manger- serves gourmet sandwiches and salads at a great price.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Argentina is filled with incredible culture. The people are amazing, and so friendly! We explored through many markets such as the Recoleta hand craft market, which is held every weekend, and the San Telmo antique market. We visited museums, and explored the city with our program as well as went to Iguazu Falls, and Mar del Plata. Both the falls and Mar del Plata were great getaways. Our program arranged the travel and accommodations as well as provided some meals.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I always felt safe while I was there, but it is definitely necessary to be cautious. In any large city crime is an issue, but if you are smart and aware of your situations then you should be fine. I lived in a safe neighborhood with transportation all around. I did get food poisoning once, and was able to go to one of the hospitals and received help. My program director met me at the hospital and stayed until my appointment was over. There are many healthcare services in the city, all of which are easily accessible. The hospital was similar to a hospital in the U.S. I did get vaccines before I left, yellow fever is necessary, but check with your doctor to see if you need others.

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

Half of my classes were in Spanish so I was able to practice in school. All of the international students spoke Spanish, and I played on the University soccer team where I was also able to practice the language. Many people in Buenos Aires speak English, but you never have to speak it if you do not want to. The language acquisition depends on how willing you are to immerse in the culture.

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• Apartment

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• Americans

• Support from the onsite director
• Group dinners
• Excursions

• Nothing, it was great!