Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

The most amazing experience in my life. Past Review

By (Oklahoma State University - Stillwater) - abroad from 02/08/2016 to 05/26/2016 with

University of Zaragoza: Zaragoza - Direct Enrollment & Exchange

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
It was most definitely worthwhile. I learned to live 100% independently. I learned that there is so much more to the world than just Oklahoma. I learned that there is so much to see! & the culture and people are absolutely amazing. I learned more about myself as to what I like and dislike. I learned that I missed so much from the US, but knowing that I have lived in another country for a semester and lived the Spanish life was the best thing in my life... so far!

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? None

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* Food:

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? No

I would like to go somewhere bigger. I loved that my first experience was in a small town because I was new to everything so it was already hard enough, but now that I have an idea of how everything is I would like to go somewhere different and for a longer period of time!

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? $50
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Save as much as possible before going that way you have more to spend there. And learn how to budget!! So that you don't run out at the end!

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

Everything was in Spanish (Castellano).. so you are forced to learn!

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? None. I have known spanish all my life.. just not proper.
How many hours per day did you use the language? 10+
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? Practice with someone who is fluent. The Spanish is NOT the same, but it sure helps. Get used to speaking all the time. There's honestly no better way than to just experience it and learn as you go. Don't be afraid to make mistakes. Learn!

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with? 10+

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • It forced me to do everything on my own. Without the help of any students like me or anyone who made me comfortable. I got out of my comfort zone.
  • The place was great with great people and beautiful language.
  • I gained great friends. Forever.
* What could be improved?
  • The class selection
  • contact with the school
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? It is VERY difficult to contact back home and do things internationally... for example, I wish I would've gotten a phone with data (or unlocked my iPhone before leaving) and made sure everything was figured out at home (insurance and stuff) that way you do not have to worry while being abroad. It's the biggest hassle.

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 Avid Adventurer
The wardrobe you packed was better suited for a semester of camping than club hopping. Outdoorsy, you might forgo a crazy night out for an early all-day adventure. You'd rather take in the rich culture of an old town than the metropolis of a modern city, but for you getting off the grid is ideal.