A truly interesting and honest look into the lives of the Nicaraguan society. Past Review

By (Applied Economics., University of Northern Iowa) - abroad from 05/07/2012 to 05/19/2012 with

University of Northern Iowa: Managua - UNI Socio-Economic Reality Capstone in Nicaragua

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned that despite the technological and economic differences between the U.S. and Nicaragua, both peoples strive for personal happiness in the same ways and for the same reasons, and that a more developed and technologic society doesn't necessarily correlate to more "happiness".

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? None

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* Food:

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

Finances

* 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)

* Was housing included in your program cost? Yes
* Was food included in your program cost? Yes
Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $10

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
How much did the program encourage you to use the language?

0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? Beginner
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Intermediate
How many hours per day did you use the language?

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
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?
  • Truly immersive
  • Well planned out
  • Interesting locales
* What could be improved?
  • More time experiencing the city culture
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Bring a better pillow