Past Review
By Kelsey C (Chemical Engineering., Universidad Politécnica de Valencia / Polytechnic University of Valencia / UPV) for
Polytechnic University of Valencia / UPV : Valencia - Direct Enrollment & Exchange
I firmly believe any study abroad opportunity is well worth it, regardless of location. I spoke very little Spanish and was still able to navigate and enjoy complete immersion in a foreign country.
Personal Information
| How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | 6 months+ |
| The term and year this program took place: | Fall 2008 |
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 |
Program was not very organized. It was difficult to understand where classes were and how to register for them. The schedules released the semester before were not entirely accurate, causing me to have to find new classes to meet my needs. I had to complete an independent study class through my University to graduate because of a class that was improperly labeled for Fall when it is actually taught in the Spring. They were helpful face-to-face, but difficult in any other form of communication. |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
I booked a hotel room before flying to Spain and spent the first week looking for an apartment. It wasn't too difficult to find satisfactory living. The University keeps a list of available apartments and students post flyers all over campus. They usually expect at least of full semester, September - February or January - August. |
| * Food: |
Wonderful food!! (It is Spain after all...)I cooked for myself or ate at restaurants. The school's cafeterias were quite good as well. Valencia has excellent seafood and unique dishes that are solely their own. The center market has wonderful stalls with fresh fruits, vegetables and meats. |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
Wonderful experience. Large ERASMUS population and welcoming local poulation. Enjoyable atmosphere and enjoyable class subjects. I was invited to a country home for a birthday party and had the opportunity to tour an olive oil factory. |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
Campus always felt very safe, there would be security officers at night. Parts of Valencia are not as safe, but you quickly learn where those are. As a women it is never a very good idea to walk very far at night alone. At least two friends had their walets/purses stolen while walking alone at night through the city center. Completely avoidable if you are smart about it. |
| 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
| Language acquisition improvement? |
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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? | Wonderful location for study abroad. They won't hold your hand through the process, it takes a person that is fully independent. Well worth the effort. |
