How South America Opened My Eyes to the World Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

I chose to take all of my classes in Spanish, which was difficult at first but became easier as the semester went on. The workload was minimal and your final grades are based primarily on the midterm and final exams. I felt that the teachers were a lot more lax when it came to teaching and attendance for classes was electronically recorded when you swiped your ID card. The grades are based on a 1-10 scaling system (for example 10=A+).

On-site administration of your program

I liked this program as compared to some other programs that my friends in Buenos Aires were in because 1. It was a lot cheaper 2. There were no planned group excursions (I was able to organize my own trips, which is a lot cheaper than if planned through a program). The program group was very small (there were only 8 of us) but you will meet other students in your classes at the university. Basically we had no communication or interaction with our program advisor aside from our 1 day of orientation and the emails that she would send us letting us know different events/activities going on in Buenos Aires. So if you're looking for a more independent kind of study abroad experience, this is a good choice.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Housing was arranged for me through the program. My university was about a 15 minute walk from my house, which was very easy as compared to some other students who had to take the subway every day. Buenos Aires has different provinces and so most places for nightlife required a bus or a subway ride (very simple). My host family was absolutely amazing, they were super welcoming and made me feel like I was a part of the family. There were also 3 other student who lived in the house with me (it was very big), which made the experience even better. I couldn't have had a better housing experience. Everything was provided for me (pillows, cookware etc.)

Buenos Aires is a city of carnivores. They love their steak and meat and potatoes. They're also big on bread, dulce de leche, and mate (an herbal drink). Probably not the best spot for vegetarians, although it's possible. My host family gave me huge portions at dinner (I eventually had to ask them to give me less food) and breakfast was very simple (cereal, toast, coffee etc.).

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

As I said earlier, the program does not arrange any kind of outings or field trips. The student is responsible for planning their own trips, however information about certain events is provided via email.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

The program provides health insurance for students. Buenos Aires is a generally safe city, however the typical city dangers of robbery, theft are present. I never had an issue with healthcare.

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

As I said before, I took all of my classes in Spanish which helped me a lot to pick up on the language. I also lived with a host family who did not speak English, which also helped me to improve my Spanish speaking skills. I absolutely needed to use the language in everyday interactions as a lot of people in Buenos Aires do not speak English.

Select all that apply

• Host Family

Select all that apply

• Host Family
• International Students
• Americans

• The program dates (started earlier/ended earlier than the normal American school year) which allowed time to travel after the program ended
• Living with a host family
• Independence ( I was able to plan my own trips)

• I really don't know