Past Review

By (Communication and Media Studies., The University of Texas at Austin) for

CIEE: Seville - Liberal Arts

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I'm glad I did it for the sole reason that I would have always regretted not doing it. Studying abroad did nothing for me except make me truly appreciate my life in the US. I'm so glad to be back and I will never go on a CIEE program again. Please do not contact me regarding these comments (I'm assuming that they're linked to my name) because I have no interest in saying anything more about this horrible program.

Personal Information

If you took classes at multiple universities, list those universities here: University of Seville
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.

Classes were preposterously easy. The professors were, in general, very flaky (late to class) and uninterested in students (didn't bother to learn a single name all semester). The only thing I learned is that American higher education is much more rigorous.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

First I lived with a senora in Triana. However, she was gone four days a week and completely neglected me (wouldn't leave food, didn't do laundry, etc) and so in April I switched to a new senora in Los Remedios. <br /><br />

* Food:

I was basically starved for two months and then when I got my new senora the food was decent (the same few dishes over and over but at least it was something). Spanish food has too much olive oil and not enough flavoring.

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

Finances

Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Travel cost much more than I expected, especially with the volcano ash stranding me in London.

Language

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? None
If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition?

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

A Look Back

* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Words of wisdom: pick a different program, preferably one that's cheaper. Also, never leave your umbrella in the library umbrella rack because it will get stolen.