IES Barcelona was an excellent learning experience Past Review

By (PSYCHOLOGY., The University of Texas at Austin) for

IES Abroad: Barcelona - Study Abroad with IES Abroad

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Absolutely--I believe everyone should have the chance to study abroad, whether it is for a semester, or even three weeks. The experience, even at its worst moments, is an excellent learning experiences and without a doubt, fun!

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 2 weeks - 1 month
The term and year this program took place: Spring 2010

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

I felt that the classes were informative and there were a wide variety of courses to choose from.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

I felt that the administration at IES Barcelona were very helpful and genuinely cared about each student.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

This was, by far, the best part of my abroad experience. I felt that I was provided with a great insight into the Spanish culture and dramatically improved my language skills. <br /><br /> I lived with a married couple who absolutely became my best friend while abroad. We looked forward to our "family" dinners every single night!

* Food:

My host family was extremely accommodating

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I do not think our program necessarily provided social opportunities but allowed for an environment in which we were able to interact throughout the day

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

I felt prepared and aware by the staff of areas to avoid/areas that were or were not safe.

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? none

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
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?

Language acquisition improvement?

My language skills greatly improved through living with a host family. This was the best part of my experience

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans