Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Time of my life in Barcelona Past Review

By (Communication, University of Massachusetts Amherst) for

API (Academic Programs International): Barcelona - Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
My abroad experience completely changed my cultural awareness and really brought me out of my mindsest.

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.

The workload was very manageable and the grading system fair. The teaching methods were a little different but easy to get used to.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

My program size was perfect, about 100 kids which provided the ability to get to know other people and feel comfortable. The program was very organized and was able to get things done, definitely exceeded my expectations.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* Food:

The food is quite different but not bad, grocery shopping is a little difficult in a different language but nothing unmanageable.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I loved the excursions provided by my program to Paris and Madrid. While in Barcelona the Pope visited the Sagrada Familia which was incredible.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

My program directors made us very aware of safety and precautions to keep us safe.

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

Language acquisition improvement?

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • The directors were very accommodating and made the transition easier
  • The entire program was well organized and I loved the excursions
  • The school was very well organized and I loved my courses
* What could be improved?
  • Better understanding of the city to the students