I improved my Spanish 10X at UPC Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

I loved UPC it had a great environment. Class sizes were keep to a max of ~30 students. With smaller classes there was more interaction with professors. The only part I did not like was the amount of homework for some classes was not equivalent to the level of the class in my opinion. I do like the educational system better than that of Oklahoma State.

On-site administration of your program

Strengths: Staff was always willing to help when there was a problem with school or outside life. Ask/provided check-ups periodically through the semester to make sure everything was going smoothly. Met with the Head of the School of Medicine because most of my classes where in that college. Met with her because she wanted to offer advice and assistence if ever a problem was to arise.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I lived with a Peruvian family. They also had one other exchange student living with them from Germany. I loved my family. They included me in family activities such as birthdays, gave advice, and cooked excellent meals. I would suggest living with a family to anyone who goes abroad because you get a real/better experience.

Not the highest only because I do not like fish and living next to the ocean fish is probably ~40 to 50% of the menu.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Love love the Latin American culture. Learned how to salsa among many other things. Traveling was easy to arrange short notice. Machu Picchu is indescribable. I would suggest take at least a week to go explore the part of the Amazon in Peru. It is worthwhile to stay a few weeks after school is out to travel.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Health was more of an independent issue than program related. The program only requires that of country entry requirements. Safety was not a issue most of the time. All schools have security checks and security officers. Lima as a city can be quite dangerous. There are many pick pockets and thieves. However, if you take the proper precautions you are less likely to be a victim.

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

When I first arrived in Peru, my spanish was bad to adequate. After I left I could carry on a conversation about almost anything. Yes there is still much that I don't know but that is because I have yet to be exposed to it.

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