Valencia: Travel, Learn, Experience Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

I learned a LOT of Spanish in the classes and definitely improved my Spanish skills. Furthermore, the professors were great about understanding that we also wanted time abroad to travel and have fun, so there was not too much outside of class work.

On-site administration of your program

The ISA Valencia staff were GREAT. They were helpful and always willing to give advice and support. The ISA office, located a short walk from the university where I took my classes, was always a great resource if I had questions, wanted to use a computer, or print.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I stayed with a host family who were absolutely wonderful. They did not speak any English, which was intimidating at first, but ended up being incredibly helpful in helping me develop my Spanish speaking skills. I learned so much about Spanish culture through living with them, and what it is like to be a native. Staying with a host family is a fun, educational, once-in-a-lifetime experience!

My host family provided three meals a day. I loved their food and it saved me a lot of money (and was more delicious!) than eating out all the time. It was a great way to experience traditional Spanish food and see how families dine in Spain. Valencia also has a lot of great restaurants that I frequented with my friends. Going out for tapas is the best!

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I felt very integrated with the culture, especially because I lived with a Spanish family. Because of this, I got to experience their way of life, meet their friends and neighbors, and even do unique activities like attend my host sister's high school graduation. In addition, I attended a Spanish university (the University of Valencia) and was taught by Spanish professors (rather than Americans speaking Spanish), so all of this allowed me to really be a part of a new culture.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

ISA Valencia not only provides health insurance as part of the program cost, but is also more than willing to accompany anyone to the doctor or hospital for any health concerns. During orientation, what to do in an emergency was thoroughly addressed. While abroad, I actually fainted while leaving my apartment to get to school, and I was well taken care of by the staff and my host family.

Valencia is incredibly safe. I never felt like I was in danger, even getting home late at night. Really the only crime that occurs is theft and pick pocketing, so you will not experience any problems as long as you keep track of your belongings and do not make yourself a target to pick-pocketers.

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

Because I had the option of eating all my meals with my host family free of charge, it was very easy not to spend too much money. For those who choose to eat out and spend money on lots of souvenirs and excursions, it is easy to spend a lot, but it is also easy to find ways to save money if you so choose, such as eating meals at home and not buying lots of gifts and souvenirs.

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

Speaking Spanish was encouraged, and I was able to improve a lot.

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• Host Family

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• Host Family

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• Americans

• Opportunities for excursions and travel
• Living with a host family
• Meeting other students studying abroad and making friends

• Better orientations to prepare students more

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