Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Amazingly enriching experience. Past Review

By (International Relations And Global Studies, The University of Texas at Austin) - abroad from 08/30/2012 to 12/21/2012 with

AIFS: Granada - University of Granada and Internship Program

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
My experience abroad enabled me to have a wide perspective of the world. I was able to experience different cultures around Europe and learn from them.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 6 months+

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The classes weren't as rigorous as the ones at UT, but they do challenge your time management skills.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

Paula and Edu are great program directors. They're always willing to help with anything you need.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I was very lucky to have a great host family. They were amazing and one of the best part of my trip was building a relationship with them.

* Food:

I loved the food! My host mom is an excellent cook and always took our likes into account.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I was able to use the intercambios to get to know locals. AIFS organizes a couple of meeting and I also encourage you to schedule more on your own.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Our directors advised us of health issues during a welcome meeting and always made sure we were doing okay.

* Safety:

I never felt like Granada was not safe. There is more uncertainty on a night out in Austin than there is in Granada.

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
How much did the program encourage you to use the language?

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

I was fluent in Spanish before going to Granada, but I was better at writing than speaking. Engaging in conversations with the locals and taking classes in Spanish definitely helped better my communication skills in Spanish.

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? Fluent
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Fluent
How many hours per day did you use the language? 10+
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? Meet locals! There's lots of students that want to practice their English, so participate in intercambios.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
  • International Students
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?
  • Building relationships
  • Learning
  • Traveling
* What could be improved?
  • Direct flights
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? It's okay to be nervous and to be shocked with new ways of life.

Reasons For Studying Abroad

To help future students find programs attended by like-minded individuals, please choose the profile that most closely represents you.
The Academic or Linguist
You went abroad with specific academic goals in mind; the program credentials and rigor of your coursework abroad were very important to you. You had a great time abroad, but never lost sight of your studies and (if applicable) were diligent with your foreign language study. Good for you!