5 Week Summer Abroad in Argentina Past Review

By (Spanish, Western Oregon University) for

GEO: Rosario - Study Abroad Programs in Rosario

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned so much from my experience abroad. I learned more about myself and the world than I could have ever imagined. Studying abroad really changed my life and made me realize what I want to do with this short life I have. I highly recommend going abroad it doesn't even have to be to Argentina it just needs to be somewhere.

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.

I loved my classes and teachers in Argentina. It was such a different learning experience that I hadn't really had before. The classes were more dynamic, interesting, and empowering.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

Everyone that was on staff for our program was extremely helpful and was always there if any of us needed anything. I knew that I always had someone to rely on whether it was the teachers, the staff or the head of the program.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I really enjoyed my host stay. I had a great host mom and my apartment was located only a few blocks away from the school so I could walk there. I never felt unsafe or scared in my neighborhood. I always made sure to walk with friends and be aware of my surroundings. I didn't have the best food at my host stay because my mom was diabetic. Other than that though I really enjoyed my housing. I was able to walk almost anywhere I wanted and had a comfortable living arrangement.

* Food:

I didn't mind the food in Argentina. After a little while you start to think that everything tastes the same. The food is delicious though. Lots of pasta, chicken, steak, bread, ham and such. It is very European.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I absolutely loved my group. We all bonded so quickly and really enjoyed together what Argentina had to offer. My favorite excursion was Buenos Aires. It was so beautiful and I wish we could have stayed longer. The only complaint I have about the excursions is that I never felt like we had enough time to shop or explore during the day. The most amazing thing I did was go to Iguazu Falls -- absolutely breathtaking and a must see even though it is a pretty long trek.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

I had been warned about being robbed before going to Argentina. However, once there I never felt unsafe or worried about being robbed. It is just about using common sense. I would recommend bringing a cross body bag just so you can keep your belongings next to you. Never walk home alone at night. It is better to be in a group or at least walking with another person. Talk in Spanish if you are out late so that way you won't be targeted as American. I never had to use any of the health care services but I know that the program was always accommodating.

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

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
  • Apartment
  • Hostel

A Look Back

* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I honestly loved this program. It is a great first study abroad experience. If you have studied abroad before or lived abroad I wouldn't necessarily recommend it just because it is very sheltered. I didn't really get any time to spend with any Argentinians besides my host mom. The classes, the people, the culture, the city are all great. I am planning on living in Buenos Aires Argentina one day if that says anything for you! Go it's amazing!