Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Cordoba- a challenge well worth it Past Review

By (Spanish and Psychology, Wellesley College) for

PRESHCO: Study Abroad in Córdoba, Spain

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I think I became more relaxed while abroad and just had time to think about myself as a person. I also realized who was important to me based on who I missed and who I talked to. I learned more about myself as a person and grew a lot.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 0-2 weeks

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The workload was nothing compared to Wellesley. The grading system was similar for the PRESCHO classes, but the UCO class I took, it seems the grades were only based on the final and not participation,homework or projects which was frustrating.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

I felt that the staff were extremely helpful. They were very willing to do anything to help with anything, and I loved going to the office on a daily basis just to say hi!

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

My family was wonderful. It was close to the main area of the city and also close to class. They treated me as a family member. I did not need to buy anything to feel at home!

* Food:

I had food allergies and I had no problems with the food. My host mom was great about cooking for me.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

All the cultural classes offered are wonderful. I recommend those highly. Also all the guided tours of the cities we visited with the program were great.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

Cordoba is a pretty safe city. I don't recommend walking alone at night but it is safe. The program will help you if you get sick and give you the appropriate care.

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)

Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? I had a pretty good idea that I would be spending money and therefore there weren't any expenses that were unexpected.

Language

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? None
If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition?

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • It is organized and everything works logically.
  • I enjoyed travelling to big cities but living in a small one.
* What could be improved?
  • I really don't see any problems with the way the program is run I think it is logical and very organized.
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Research where you want to travel before you leave. I think students who are looking for a challenge that are capable of being flexible should study abroad to Cordoba.