Soul-searching in San Sebastian Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Workload was reasonable, professors were awesome! I definitely had to work hard but it was so worth it.

On-site administration of your program

USAC support was great, but there is something people should keep in mind: if they need to make special arrangements with classes or accommodations they should do so from the US.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

My family lived in an apartment, like most families. I tended to be treated as more of a guest, but there were definitely moments when my host mom fought for me, like when the internet went out. By the way you might need to wait for the internet when you arrive-I did. My neighborhood was very safe and was only a 10 minute walk from school. Nightlife was a bit of a trek though-more like 30 minutes away.

I have moderate lactose intolerance and my host mom bought lactose-free milk for me. She was probably an average cook but she definitely had her special dishes. Most of the time she made more than I could eat, but I could put the leftovers back in the fridge. If you dine out, go get pintxos! Those are basically tapas, but they're so good!

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

The program arranged trips to the Pyrenees and Bilbao. Both trips were quite fun but the Pyrenees was a hiking trip-please bring supportive shoes! Early in the semester there was a boat race and there was also a film festival. We went to several concerts and one of our favorite places to go was the cider house.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

My city was quite safe. The general rule of thumb was "don't be by yourself past 3 am." When in doubt, call a taxi. Do keep an eye on your wallets. I had mine stolen in Madrid and my friend thought hers had been stolen on a separate incident. I was fortunate in that I never had to go to the doctor but I did have to get a prescription. Have your home pharmacy print out a list of your prescriptions and bring it with you. My refill was actually less expensive to pick up than it would be at home.

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

Get an intercambio! Mine became one of my closest friends. We typically spoke Spanish in class, and I stayed in someone's home which I highly recommend. My host family only spoke Spanish. Some locals spoke English but definitely not all of them.

Select all that apply

• Host Family

Select all that apply

• Host Family

• The teachers, the classes, my friends (Spanish and American)

• Nothing!