I want to go back! Past Review

By (University of Northern Iowa) - abroad from 05/07/2012 to 05/19/2012 with

University of Northern Iowa: Managua - UNI Socio-Economic Reality Capstone in Nicaragua

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned so much. I am a more open person and have a different view on life. This trip was the best thing I could have ever done.

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.

I loved everything about this course. We not only had fun but learned while doing it.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

You spend most the time living in the mountains. But what other way to get to know the culture?

* Food:

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I felt right at home with the local culture. Going to the schools and being with the children was the best.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

I never once felt in danger.

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)

* Was housing included in your program cost? Yes
* Was food included in your program cost? Yes
Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? 15

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
How much did the program encourage you to use the language?

0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language

I wish I would've known more Spanish going into the program. I felt a little unprepared in this area.

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? None
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Beginner
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? Highschool back in '07
How many hours per day did you use the language? 0
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? Keep using it.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
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?
  • The people
  • The culture
  • The children
* What could be improved?
  • Longer time
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? More spanish