Life changing experience. Everyone should study abroad! Past Review
By A student (Spanish and Biopsychology, Cognition, Neuroscience (BCN), University of Michigan - Ann Arbor) - abroad from 01/08/2014 to 05/12/2015 with
Instituto Franklin-UAH: Alcalá de Henares - Study Abroad in Spain
I learned so much from being abroad. I loved that Alcala de Henares had the components of a smaller city yet was so close to Madrid, making travel easy and giving you the big city atmosphere when you wanted it. It was 100% worthwhile, and I can't wait to be back.
Personal Information
| How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | 2 weeks - 1 month |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
The classes were relatively easy, but I still feel like I learned a lot! Exactly what you want in a study abroad program. There's also an opportunity to take classes with Spaniards at the University of Alcala if you're looking for more of a challenge or need higher level credits. |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
I had no problems, everyone was great! |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
I loved my host family and always felt very welcome. I would highly recommend staying with a host family because it's a great way to be immersed in the local food, culture, and way of life. It also helps you keep up with your Spanish practice. |
| * Food: |
I loved the food! My host mom was a great cook and I tried a ton of new things while I was there. I am gluten free and didn't have a problem during the semester. |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
There were tons of opportunities to get involved in the city/campus. I volunteered with a program called T-Oigo and tutored elementary kids in English while I was abroad. There are also intercambios to help you meet Spaniards who are looking to practice their English skills. |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
Alcala is smaller than the bigger cities, so it is relatively safe. I felt well educated about safety after the orientation process, as well. |
| 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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| Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? | Ryan air, hostels, and grocery shopping when traveling! |
Language
| * Did your program have a foreign language component? | Yes |
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How much did the program encourage you to use the language?
0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language |
We were always encouraged to use the language. However, I still ended up speaking English to the other study abroad students. |
| How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? | Intermediate |
| How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? | Advanced |
| What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? | 300-level Spanish |
| How many hours per day did you use the language? | |
| Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? | Only speak the local language as often as you can! Even with other English speakers, which can be challenging. |
Other Program Information
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* Where did you live?
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* Who did you live with?
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* Who did you take classes with?
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| About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with? |
A Look Back
| * What did you like most about the program? |
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| * What could be improved? |
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| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | I'm glad I knew how important it was to get to know local students as well. It was great having Spaniards as friends and I still keep in touch with some of them! |
Reasons For Studying Abroad
| To help future students find programs attended by like-minded individuals, please choose the profile that most closely represents you. |
The NetworkerAn active student leader, it was important for you to network abroad as well. Once overseas, you sought out student clubs, volunteered with local organizations, or attended community events. You encouraged your friends join you, and often considered how you could reflect your international experiences in a resume. |
