Past Review

By (Applied Economics., Providence College) for

CIEE: Barcelona - Business & Culture

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
My study abroad experience was extremely worthwhile. I learned a lot about myself and have gained a sense of independence. I experienced things I never thought I would and have met a lot of diverse, interesting, and incredible people. It gave me a more global perspective on issues in the world and enhanced my appreciation of different cultures.

Personal Information

If you took classes at multiple universities, list those universities here: Escola Superior de Comerc Internacionales
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?

I lived in Residencia Onix near Arc de Triomf. I lived in a bedroom by myself with my own bathroom and shared a kitchen with a Spanish student. The dorm was a good mix of Ameriacns, Spainards, adn other foreign students. There was 24 hours security and the staff was nice and helpful. Once a week my room was cleaned by a service provided by the residencia. <br /><br />

* 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? 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)

Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? I spent a lot more on travel than I initially anticipated. Flights are not as cheap throughout Europe as one may expect. Also, a lot can go wrong when you travel a lot which requires more money. Also, socializing in Spain was far more expensive than it is in America.

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

  • Hostel
  • Dorm
  • Host Family
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
  • Local Students
  • International Students
  • Americans
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans