CEA Alicante = Best Experience of My Life Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Work load was perfect. Was possible to balance school & traveling. Grading system seemed easy and the teachers were very personable. Classes were entertaining even though I was not used to that big of a class size. Lots of group work which allowed me to meet a lot of new people.

On-site administration of your program

So helpful, I always felt very comfortable going to them about anything. The program was small but I liked it better that way because it was easy to get in touch with my director. They helped me plan a trip and look at several options. They got everything done efficiently and could answer all of my questions either immediately or in a timely manner. My expectations were more than met, everything was great.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

My host mom provided me with almost everything I needed which was great. The location of her apartment was in the absolute perfect place. Very close to all the nightlife and a short bus ride from classes, which I didn't mind because there are so many things to see. My host mother and I had an up and down relationship. We just had very different personalities and expectations. I stayed with my friend in her apartment a few times & liked it. It had a lot of space and all the resources needed. When we arrived and went on excursions we stayed in hotels which were all great quality. The hostel my friend and I stayed in on a trip was amazing, very welcoming and safe. I felt really comfortable and enjoyed meeting everyone there.

I ate everything and I loved it. I even tried some things I did not think I ever would have. Quality was always great, and as for quantity, I probably ate more than I should have...but it was all so good, I couldn't help it. Recommendations: Lizarran on La Ramble (Ask for Mario & Jon Freddy, they are hilarious), Bon Bon Boss for Cafe Con Leche and an afternoon snack, Dos Gringos for american food that is awesome. Nou Manolin is the nicest place but expensive (where my host mom worked). Pretty much anywhere in the Barrio.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Every excursion was amazing. Every futbol game I watched was an event in itself especially if you are with a group of Spaniards. El Classico. Semana Santa. Carnaval (Spain's Version of Halloween, except cooler.)

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I had gotten a virus in my eye and it was handled immediately, the program was very helpful. The health care provided made everything easy. I did not need any specific vaccines, but there was a virus going around that we were warned about. The safety was great, I felt very comfortable walking around.

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

The program introduced us to several Spanish students. We went on excursions with them and hung out with them all the time anyways. We could practice our Spanish while also helping them with their English. I spoke Spanish every day with my host mom, so I was able to practice a lot more.

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• Host Family
• Apartment
• Hotel
• Hostel

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• Americans
• International Students
• Host Family