Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

A great immersion into Caribbean culture Past Review

By (Spanish Language and Literature., Oklahoma State University - Stillwater) for

ISA Study Abroad in Santiago, Dominican Republic

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
My experience was extremely worthwhile. I gianed an understanding of Caribbean culture and how extremely diverse it is. I gained a drive through the story of the Mirabal Sisters. I also gained friends, better Spanish, another family, and a great experience abroad that i'll never forget.

Personal Information

The term and year this program took place: Summer 2009

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The courses were tough but I learned a lot about Caribbean culture and Latin American literature in general. I especially improved my writing skills due to the amount of papers required for both my classes.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

I loved our host adminstrators they were extremely helpful and kind. They kept up with us not just academically but personally too.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I lived with a family, who took great care of me and was very kind.

* Food:

Dominican food is AMAZING especially the fruit.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I was given much freedom to be able to learn about the culture first hand. I made friends both Dominincan and Haitian they I am still in contact with now. Also, the excursions that ISA set up taught me about my cultural surroundings.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

Before I left the U.S. ISA had provided me with a booklet with health and safety issues in it. They staff also had an orientation with us when we got to the DR addressing these issues again. I never felt unsafe while there.

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

Language acquisition improvement?

They improved greatly. Especially the diversity of my Spanish because I learned words and sayings specific to my host country.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

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  • Other

A Look Back

* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I would tell them to do it. ISA takes care of their students before they leave, while they are abroad, and after. I have been on two programs with them and I have never had any issues. I love the program and the staff.