Madrid: Makes you want to travel the world!!!! Past Review

By (Environmental Studies., Towson University) for

Towson University: Madrid - Political Economy of Spain: Foreclosures, Flan and Futbol

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
it was definitely worth it! I'm so happy I took my last opportunity to study abroad before I graduate!

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.

it was similar to the American educational system because my teacher was from Towson.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

They were very helpful and organized on explaining about Spain, showing around the country, and helping us with general information. They helped other students and I find a place to stay in Barcelona for a weekend which was very helpful to us. They were awesome!!

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The neighbor was very nice. We were right in the center of Madrid. The only problem I had was that the showers were very small, but I learned to deal with them over time.

* Food:

Spain loves pork and I didn't realize that until I got there.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

it was very interesting to see the silent protests in Madrid. It is amazing that people are so calm with the protests when their unemployment rate is over 20%.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

very safe

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)

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? about 200 euros
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? if your a girl, you will want to buy clothes and shoes. so pack light!

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

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
  • International Students
  • Local Students
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans

A Look Back

* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? have fun!

Individual Course Reviews

Course Name/Rating:

TU Political Economy of Spain

Course Department: ECON 474
Instructor: Seth Gitter
Instruction Language: English
Comments: It was challenging to be in another country where I did not fully know the language. The field trips were very educational and I had a great experience learning about the culture of Spain. My teacher was knowledgeable about Spain and knew how to speak Spanish well which was helpful. Yes I participated more than usual.
Credit Transfer Issues: