Studying abroad with USAC was the most fulfilling experience of my life! Past Review
By Carrie L (Nutritional Science, University of Nevada - Reno) for
USAC Spain: San Sebastián - Spanish Language, Basque, Psychology, and European Studies
My Spanish improved immensely, I met incredible people, both from the host country and from all over the United States. It really gives you a lot of perspective being abroad, and witnessing different cultures first-hand. Academically, I got a lot of my Spanish minor done while in Spain, and taking Spanish classes here again, is so much easier than before. I really hope to return in the next few years to visit.
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 an unforgettable experience, incredible. I would recommend studying abroad to anyone. |
|
* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
Everyone in the USAC office in San Sebastian was extremely kind and helpful. |
|
* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
I lived with a wonderful woman who was a great cook and extremely inviting. |
| * Food: |
My host mom's cooking was delicious, as well as nutritious. |
|
* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
The 2 USAC field trips were great, as well as all the side traveling I did throughout the semester. |
|
* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
|
| * Safety: |
It was necessary to be cautious of course, but I felt very safe in San Sebastian, especially in comparison with other places I went to in Europe. It was easy to get to a doctor, and there were no issues with communication. |
| 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
| * Did your program have a foreign language component? | Yes |
| Language acquisition improvement? |
I spoke with my host mom in only Spanish; all of my classes were in Spanish as well. |
| If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition? |
|
Other Program Information
|
* Where did you live?
Select all that apply |
|
|
* Who did you live with?
Select all that apply |
|
A Look Back
| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | Somebody who is open to new things, and just wants to experience the world...let go of what you're used to and just live it up! |
