Alicante for the summer Past Review

By (Psychoology, California State University - Chico) for

USAC Spain: Alicante - Spanish Language, Linguistics, European, Mediterranean, and Gender Studies

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
yes, definitely worthwhile! I had the time of my life, and was easily able to travel in between weekends and after the program!

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 1 month - 6 months

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Since the class I took was only for one month in the summer the material was more intensive. Pilar was a really great teacher who really enriched my experience not only academically in Alicante. The educational system between Chico State and the University of Alicante was easily manageable.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The program was pretty small, more or less 30 people and the directors were easily available and helpful. The placement of the apartment was easily accessible in the city but the University is a good 40 minute bus ride to the University.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Class was a 40 minute bus ride away. The grocery store and central market were closely situated, as well as the beach within a ten minute walk from out front door.

* Food:

While living in an apartment we bought out own groceries. The food in the area was good, lots of Spanish food, lots of pork in the restaurants. You can find other types of food but in this small town its mostly Spanish.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Fantastic trip to Guadalest, Fuentes De Algar and Benidorm. Also a one day trip to Valencia included-both with meals included.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

I felt safe walking the streets, taking public transportation, etc. I would not recommend girls walking home alone. The program directors were helpful when we needed help with the typical health issues on our program. The pharmacies are everywhere and they are able to prescribe also, which made it easier.

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)

Language

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
  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans

Individual Course Reviews

Course Name/Rating:

Spanish Gender Studies

Course Department:
Instructor: Pilar Escabias
Instruction Language: English
Comments: The class was a good summer learning experience, the material was manageable and really interesting.
Credit Transfer Issues: Credit towards my theme, no problem.