Study Abroad at Universidad Pablo de Olavide with a homestay Past Review

By (International Business, New Mexico State University) for

Pablo de Olavide University: Seville - Multidisciplinary Studies Program

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
The study abroad was definitely worthwhile. Not only did my Spanish drastically improve, but I was able to gain knowledge about different cultures and people. I've learned how to open up, adapt to different environments, and to be more diverse.

Personal Information

The term and year this program took place: Fall 2009

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Overall, I learned quite a bit in Pablo Olavide. I did find the majority of my classes to be very disorganized, and the facility was not properly equipped to meet all the needs of the students.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

I found the program administration to be very friendly and helpful. Organization was a problem at times.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

My host family was great. The location was centralized. The apartment was between the university and the center of town. The neighborhood was a little unsafe. I along with a couple of other students had safety issues during our stay such as: being followed and cornered by men. Never walk home alone, and never let anyone borrow your cell to make a call. Keep valuable items out of sight.

* Food:

My host mother cooked more than enough food, but I found the quality of food to be very low and unhealthy.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

The people in Sevilla are very friendly. If you want to get the full experience, immersion is key. Don't only hang out with other exchange students. Meet some locals.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

I wasn't placed in the best neighborhood. Also, theft is a huge problem in Sevilla so guard your valuables. Watch out for pickpockets and scam artists asking for money. Never walk home alone late at night.

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? No

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? ...

Language

Language acquisition improvement?

Classes are offered in Spanish, but the majority of classes are in English. It is up to the student to make the most of the study abroad by making Spanish friends and participating in exchange activities provided by the program administrators. I recommend that students also try to speak Spanish instead of English with the other foreign exchange students.

A Look Back

* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Immersion, immersion, immersion. Take advantage of all opportunities, including the activities organized by the host program.