Studying in BsAs was the best European experience in a Latin American Country! Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

I took 5 courses at UP. The workload was reading intensive, with several essays depending on the course. The grading system was based on a 1-10 number scale with 4 as passing. The teaching methods were primarily lecture based, with some powerpoint aids and movies as well. The educational system at my host university was harder than the my American educational system. I felt challenged and really hard to work hard to earn the grades I received.

On-site administration of your program

The program was pretty well organized. The orientation led to signing up for the courses and all questions were answered satisfactorily. Knowledge about the host country and American higher education level was understood and the grading system was explained. The program size was relatively large with international students from all over the world. My expectations throughout the program were met. However, it was difficult to receive information about the following semester as I am returning to study abroad for a second term. This was difficult as I needed to know when the semester started to be able to buy a plane ticket and prepare to return in the spring. The study abroad coordinator was unavailable after November and the replacement was unable to provide with information that otherwise would have been easy to obtain. I am still waiting to hear back.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Housing was arranged through the TU in Argentina program. The neighborhood is safe, but as always you have to make sure you don't go out late by yourself and dress appropriately to the culture and its standards. The aesthetics of the city is European, with many buildings built in that architectural appeal. Other buildings were more modern and not as appealing to the viewer. I took a bus or walked to school and the UP was pretty close from my apartment. I 15-20 min bus ride depending on traffic or 25-30 min walk to the school. Nightlife in Buenos Aires is never-ending and all nights so there was always something to do and somewhere to go. I did not need to buy any items to settle-in the only necessary thing I had to do myself was go to the laundry mat. I was treated by my host mom as a family member. We bonded pretty quickly and we both treated each other with respect, but at the same time had a great time together.

Food is pretty good in BsAs. The meat is delicious of course, and you have to try the mozzarella pizza. Although they have empanadas, there is not much typical Argentinean food to offer.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

The program did not offer any events through UP. I was disappointed that any cultural events or attractions that I wanted to experience I had to pay extra when the program is already costly. Many other programs included trips and activities for the exchange students.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

The host city is relatively safe. As always don't go out at night by yourself and make sure you tell someone where you will be as a safely precaution. Robbery and theft does occur just be careful with your personal expensive items such as laptop, ipod, cellphone, etc, and don't leave it out in the open.

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

I practiced Spanish everyday. I was obligated to use the language to communicate to my host mom, the locals, students, and professors. Not all people spoke English, and with exchange students, Spanish was the common language utilized to communicate.

Select all that apply

• Host Family
• Apartment

Select all that apply

• Host Family

Select all that apply

• Host Family
• The culture and the experience learning Spanish
• Open and nice

• Communication about when the finals are
• Letting know about when classes start
• Letting know about deadlines