Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Most of the classes were heavy in theory, and contained little to no actual practice. The university is different in grading, in that students only strive to pass their class, and not get high grades. Many teachers method of teaching was playing a slideshow and having students copy the information down, while having almost no interaction with the students. Each little action within the university required multiple forms to fill out, and multiple signatures, which was just a mess: especially when many teachers don't attend their posted office hours when you need their signatures.

On-site administration of your program

From day one, I arrived at the university, went to the International Relations office, and received a large packet of information and little direction as to what I should actually do. Enrolling in classes was an experiment, riddled with confusion and frustration. I wasn't able to take courses in other faculties, and just enrolling in a different department's courses required working through a mess of red tape. Many students from other programs had mentors, but we for some reason had none. I was really stretched in the sense that I had to accept the fact that teachers don't often attend their office hours, each university action requires another form, and nobody selects their classes until weeks after they actually begin. I was very frustrated with the general lack of structure.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I lived on Calle del Explorador Andrés, close to La Plaza de Cedro. It's a great neighborhood, halfway between the beach and the university, and has some really great bodegas and bars. <br /><br /> I spent three days walking around Valencia trying to find a place to live, and finally found this great apartment through a friend. Safe neighborhood, nothing amazing to look at, but a very homey feel, and close to some very great bars. I only bought a comforter and a towel, as most everything else was already provided by my other roommates. I lived with an ex-erasmus student from Italy, who is working in Valencia, a French guy who has lived in Valencia every summer for the past 3 years, and a female Spanish student at my university. I was spoiled when it came to my roommates. Definitely helped my spanish level and my transition into Spanish life.

I cook a lot, and eat very well, so I can't offer much information to other students.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

We signed up, flew over here, figured stuff out, and went from there. Our program didn't have anything organized.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Anyone can go to the Emergency room and get attention. I was just worried about the horrible driving and pedestrian danger.

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

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• Hostel
• Apartment

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• Local Students

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• Local Students