Studying abroad with USAC was the most fulfilling experience of my life! Past Review

By (Nutritional Science, University of Nevada - Reno) for

USAC Spain: San Sebastián - Spanish Language, Basque, Psychology, and European Studies

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
My Spanish improved immensely, I met incredible people, both from the host country and from all over the United States. It really gives you a lot of perspective being abroad, and witnessing different cultures first-hand. Academically, I got a lot of my Spanish minor done while in Spain, and taking Spanish classes here again, is so much easier than before. I really hope to return in the next few years to visit.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 0-2 weeks

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

It was an unforgettable experience, incredible. I would recommend studying abroad to anyone.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

Everyone in the USAC office in San Sebastian was extremely kind and helpful.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I lived with a wonderful woman who was a great cook and extremely inviting.

* Food:

My host mom's cooking was delicious, as well as nutritious.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

The 2 USAC field trips were great, as well as all the side traveling I did throughout the semester.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

It was necessary to be cautious of course, but I felt very safe in San Sebastian, especially in comparison with other places I went to in Europe. It was easy to get to a doctor, and there were no issues with communication.

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)

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
Language acquisition improvement?

I spoke with my host mom in only Spanish; all of my classes were in Spanish as well.

If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition?

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family

A Look Back

* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Somebody who is open to new things, and just wants to experience the world...let go of what you're used to and just live it up!