Barcelona: "The Gateway to Europe" My Cultural Awakening Past Review
By Tianna M (Law, West Virginia University) for
ISA Study Abroad in Barcelona, Spain
This experience was the beginning of my studies abroad. My experience through ISA in Spain has led me to travel to four other countries and to constantly seek opportunities for international travel.
Personal Information
| How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | 1 month - 6 months |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
Everything was a strength. I loved my host mother and had a great time learning the language and culture of Spain. |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
My host family treated as if I was family. I did not need anything and the neighborhood was very safe. Only a few metro stops from classes, beaches, and the center of Barcelona. |
| * Food: |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
I loved the trip to Figures and Costa Brava. |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
I recommend that everyone get an international cell phone to use over there. This was helpful when I was lost or was late to something or just trying to meet up with friends. Barcelona is a huge city and it can be scary when you don't know the language or area and you have no method of communication. |
| If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? |
Yes
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Finances
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* 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) |
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Language
| * Did your program have a foreign language component? | Yes |
| Language acquisition improvement? |
I practiced the language with everyone. This included my professors, my host, and my ISA friends. |
| If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition? |
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Other Program Information
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* Where did you live?
Select all that apply |
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* Who did you live with?
Select all that apply |
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A Look Back
| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | This program is for everyone. Whether you are adventurous and independent, or whether you are more of an introvert. Either way, it will push you out of your comfort zone and challenge your thoughts about the world. |
