I went to study Spanish and learned so much more than only a language! Past Review

By (Psychology/Spanish, University of Arkansas - Fayetteville) - abroad from 06/11/2012 to 07/06/2012 with

AIFS: Barcelona - Universitat Autònoma Barcelona

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Completely worth every penny! It opened my eyes and I grew as an individual.

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.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* Food:

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? No

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)

* Was housing included in your program cost? Yes
* Was food included in your program cost? Yes
Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? We were given a food allowance of 180 euros a for two weeks and that was more than enough for groceries and a couple going out for lunch or dinners.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
How much did the program encourage you to use the language?

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

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? Intermediate
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Advanced
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? Spanish Literature. (only missing one class for a minor)
How many hours per day did you use the language?
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? Take taxis home at night! The drivers love talking to you in Spanish and are so friendly! That was favorite way to practice my Spanish

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with?

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Our Residential Advisor was so good and prompt and helpful
* What could be improved?
  • They could definitely add a home stay to their program
  • I didn't like that we didn't have much interaction with the local students
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? save save save money before you go!