Business & Culture : Reviews (Barcelona)
The following program review responses have been selected for publication by Education Abroad
Program Evaluation
Academic Year 2013 Participant
I loved my home stay, it really made my experience and changed the way I experienced the city and Spanish culture. I did not like the excursions very much, I felt they should maybe be optional and so we don't feel like we already paid for them.
Christian Ayala,
Fall 2013 Participant
Living with a Catalan host mom who shared with us her personal view points and cooked local cuisine was a cultural emersion unlike anything I could have hoped for, not to mention a gastronomic pleasure. In Spain you find yourself slowing down, and focused on enjoying the way of life, rather than the high speed day by day pattern we have in the states. I discovered so much on the excursions, and my personal travels, and you really learn about yourself when you miss your flight out of Istanbul, have no money, and no way of contacting home.
What I didn't like was my Spanish course, our final was our grade, and that's too much pressure and weight for one test.
What I didn't like was my Spanish course, our final was our grade, and that's too much pressure and weight for one test.
Austen Khristopher Bernier,
Fall 2013 Participant
The entire Barcelona experience was amazing for me. The professors were incredible, the local Catalans are incredibly friendly, the city is full of character and personality, the food is delectable, the transportation is easy, and the city is located right between the best of both worlds, the sea and the mountains.
Kristy Erin Gustafson,
Fall 2013 Participant
I absolutely LOVED my semester abroad! Everything from the wonderful people I met and the amazing places I was blessed enough to travel to the unforgettable lessons I learned along the way. While classes were interesting and not too challenging, what I learned inside the classroom does not even begin to compare to what I learned outside of it. Traveling the world opened my eyes to cultures and experiences I never even dreamed of. And while there were plenty ups and downs that came along with the territory the whirlwind adventure I was lucky enough to live every single day made absolutely everything worth it. The friendships I made, places I explored, and experiences I lived, are sure to be ones I carry with me for the rest of my life.
Fall 2013 Participant
I thoroughly enjoyed everything about this experience. My homestay was amazing and my house mom couldn't have done a better job. The phrase "Going above and beyond the call of duty" applies to her in spades. The whole program was a wonderful experience and I have every intention of spending as much more of my time in Barcelona as absolutely possible
Fall 2013 Participant
I really loved meeting new people and living in a different country. I also loved my home stay mom and the interaction with locals. I did not like the way the classes were set up or how long they were.
Fall 2013 Participant
Academics were straightforward; However, working with the UAB staff in Barcelona proved difficult and no course schedule changes are allowed unless you have a medical reason. Very frustrating. Barcelona was amazing and the housing was definitely up to par/expectations. Interactions with some locals was difficult because they only spoke catalan, but for the most part it was pretty simple to communcate. Local transportation is incredibly easy and efficient. The excursions were a lot of fun and joining a soccer team through ISA was definitely a fun and rewarding choice.
Fall 2013 Participant
I loved the city of Barcelona and living in an apartment was a great experience. I think ISA could have done a better job of matching me up with roommates I had more in common with or at least at similar life styles to.
Fall 2014 Participant
Barcelona was the absolute best place to study abroad. Barcelona has everything: world renowned art and architecture, fascinating museums, beautiful nature, the hills, the beach, the city life, the friendly people, the nightlife, the culture and strong heritage, and much much more.
Angeline Cheng,
Fall 2014 Participant
The location was perfect and the courses were not too overwhelming. The excursions for this program were perfect and I loved them. I would have never gone to those places on my own since they weren't popular tourist areas. I am so glad I chose Barcelona as it was so beautiful and there was so much to do and see.
Atticus Kreek Yondorf,
Fall 2014 Participant
My courses were great!
Location was perfect!
I made great friends!
The excursions were fun!
Location was perfect!
I made great friends!
The excursions were fun!
Spring 2014 Participant
volunteer and internship opportunities were difficult to find and i wish there was more information given to us about those types of opportunities while we were there in Barcelona
interaction with locals was kind of difficult, i wish i had done the intercambio with locals - i also wish there were more opportunities other than the intercambio to meet locals
interaction with locals was kind of difficult, i wish i had done the intercambio with locals - i also wish there were more opportunities other than the intercambio to meet locals
Spring 2014 Participant
Barcelona is the most amazing city to study abroad in.
The excursions are fun, "free" and you learn a lot but I much preferred traveling on my own with my friends than being with the program etc.
One of my favorite parts of studying abroad was being able to meet locals wherever I traveled and to meet fellow travelers in Barcelona. My best piece of advice is don't be afraid to talk to anyone, people are friendlier than you think.
The excursions are fun, "free" and you learn a lot but I much preferred traveling on my own with my friends than being with the program etc.
One of my favorite parts of studying abroad was being able to meet locals wherever I traveled and to meet fellow travelers in Barcelona. My best piece of advice is don't be afraid to talk to anyone, people are friendlier than you think.
Jenna Marie Chatillon,
Spring 2014 Participant
The courses were very easy, had great teachers, and were interesting. The location of your school is good, not great. It's really up to you to interact with the locals. There are plenty of locals around you at almost any given moment, but it's mainly up to you to start a conversation. The program had fantastic excursions to different places around and Spain plus one in France. They were very well organized, fun, and beyond worth going to. I never heard about internship opportunities but our program did have a few volunteer opportunities.
Spring 2014 Participant
My courses were fun and easy. My apartment was nice but the location was sort of far from where I wanted to be. The locals some were cool some not so much.
Jeremy Michael Forman,
Spring 2014 Participant
The course load is the perfect level, such that you learn new things, without having the workload become a burden. There is no better city in Europe to study abroad then Barcelona. No matter how much you explore and seek new places, there is always more to see and do. I found that as long as I made a genuine effort to interact with the locals, they responded graciously and were happy to talk to me. That being said, for the most part, I talked to employees in restaurants, but was also to make a few local friends while I was there. The excursions were great, allowing everyone to get to know one-another better and see some amazing cities. They put us up in nice hotels and took us to cool places.
Sarah Gronet,
Spring 2014 Participant
Learning in a different country by local professors was truly a once in a life time experience.
Barcelona was an incredible city with plenty of attractions to explore, however it is also very easy to travel to and from to explore the rest of Europe!
Excursions saved me money in travel costs and was a great way to connect and become closer with people in your program.
Barcelona was an incredible city with plenty of attractions to explore, however it is also very easy to travel to and from to explore the rest of Europe!
Excursions saved me money in travel costs and was a great way to connect and become closer with people in your program.
Nina Patrikyan,
Spring 2014 Participant
Classes were not too difficult, no homework other than major assignments. Only having class Monday through Thursday was perfect for weekend trips. Barcelona is an incredible place to study abroad, you'll never not have anything to do! Excursions with the program were fun as well.
Taylor Pearl,
Spring 2014 Participant
Courses were easier than at CU. They were all very interesting so try to enroll in some new things that wouldn't be offered at school. Barcelona was absolutely beautiful and so fun! There was endless things to do there. I traveled a lot while I was abroad but always enjoyed coming "home" to Barcelona. I lived in an apartment so we were able to interact with locals in everyday life. The program offered excursions that were interesting and helped me get to know people in my group.
Craig Ratterman,
Spring 2014 Participant
The classes are fun and not too difficult. The teachers are great. I found my Spanish language course to be a great tool for learning the language. The location could not be better, Barcelona is an amazing place. If you want to interact with the locals you need to go out of your way to do so, it is easy to fall into the habit of only spending time with Americans. Go on all of the excursions, they are a blast.
Spring 2014 Participant
The courses are a lot easier and more interesting than classes back in the States.
Barcelona is an excellent location if you're trying to go to Europe because it has a beach, right on the coast, and great weather.
If you want to interact with local you have to put a lot of effort in. I found them to not be very friendly.
I recommend going on as many of the ISA excursions as possible. They were a lot of fun and great experiences.
Barcelona is an excellent location if you're trying to go to Europe because it has a beach, right on the coast, and great weather.
If you want to interact with local you have to put a lot of effort in. I found them to not be very friendly.
I recommend going on as many of the ISA excursions as possible. They were a lot of fun and great experiences.
Spring 2014 Participant
everything was amazing. courses and teachers were awesome. teachers took great care of us. residencia onix was walking distance of both campuses and every major site in barcelona. also right next to a metro station. the spanish are great friendly people. excursions were awesome.
Taylor Alyssa Young,
Spring 2014 Participant
I absoutely fell in love with Barcelona. The culture, the food, the people, the sites, everything about this city was amazing, I can't wait to return one day. Barcelona had the best of both worlds in my eyes, a beach and city feel to it, it also was a perfect size as well. The locals challenged me everyday to practice my spanish. And above all the relationships I formed and the people I met was what made my abroad experience amazing. I would go back to Barcelona in a heart beat.
Fall 2015 Participant
International Finance 4/5
Spanish Language B.1 4/5
Doing Business in Emerging Markets 2/5
The Creative Economy 2/5
I had a great interaction with locals throughout my time in Barcelona. I lived in Eixample.
Spanish Language B.1 4/5
Doing Business in Emerging Markets 2/5
The Creative Economy 2/5
I had a great interaction with locals throughout my time in Barcelona. I lived in Eixample.
Fall 2015 Participant
Courses are typically easier, but that also means possibly learning information you already knew from core classes. Barcelona is a great city for college students because of the endless things to do, large amount of students in the city (lots of study abroad students and local students) and the airport is very close which makes traveling on weekends easy. Excursions were always fun. Interactions with locals depends on your Spanish ability but most residents speak English.
Fall 2015 Participant
Courses were mostly easy, some required a lot of work.
Location was awesome. Barcelona is great. The apartment provided by ISA was also quite nice.
Interactions with locals is something you gain appreciation for. Some are rude, many are nice, when you meet people while going out they are generally friendly.
Day excursions through the program were well planned and informative.
Location was awesome. Barcelona is great. The apartment provided by ISA was also quite nice.
Interactions with locals is something you gain appreciation for. Some are rude, many are nice, when you meet people while going out they are generally friendly.
Day excursions through the program were well planned and informative.
Fall 2015 Participant
Studying abroad in Barcelona was one of the best decisions I have ever made and it was an experience I will cherish for the rest of my life. My courses were generally easier than they would have been had I taken them at CU, and the teachers were very understanding of the itch to travel so they were all willing to accommodate me if I had to miss class. The city of Barcelona is a great place to go if you enjoy night-life, historic landmarks, and living close to the beach. It is easy to interact with locals because many people in Barcelona speak English as it is a popular tourist destination for English and American people. One should be aware that some people in Barcelona may try to take advantage of you. It is important to walk in groups always so that you will not be targeted in a negative way. Some people may appear to be interested in you, but this is often a pickpocketing tactic. The ISA program I was in offered plenty of excursions and volunteering opportunities throughout the semester. It is also possible to sign up for an internship through ISA prior to arriving in Barcelona.
Hannah Perry,
Fall 2015 Participant
I really enjoyed my courses but wish there were more opportunities to go on the excursions
Spencer Richard Borison,
Spring 2015 Participant
The courses led me to think about the world from a different and more global perspective. I learned a lot of Spanish and made some lifelong friends in Spain. Barcelona was the best city I could have ever imagined and all excursions were all I could have asked for.
Spring 2015 Participant
courses are manageable, Barcelona is the best, learn spanish, do the excusions
Rachel Ann Hillen,
Spring 2015 Participant
I loved Barcelona but there were definitely some things that bothered me about it. The party atmosphere gets old. Theres always something to do which is really fun and great for meeting others, but the club scene is so dominant and it can feel superficial and repetitive. Most places that you can get in for free-- which is awesome--but the people there are mostly tourists and study abroad students which makes it hard to meet locals. I really liked the classes I took at the Sant Pau Campus. The campus itself is beautiful and we went on lots of field trips around the city. I didn't do any internships of volunteering. The excursions were all really fun. Valencia was definitely my favorite. The South of France tour was cool but Toulousse (sp?) was not the most exciting city and we spent the most time there.
Spring 2015 Participant
The location was incredible. Barcelona is a big city, so you can find everything and anything there. Your experience is totally what you make of it. I didn't have tons of experience with locals, but the option is made available to you through intercambios and other programs offered by your school in Barcelona / the ISA program. My courses were all easier than my courses in Boulder, and as long as you went to class and payed attention, there wasn't much work outside of class. I would highly recommend taking a class about the city of Barcelona, whether it be about the architecture, graffiti, art, or anything. Even if you can't get credit for it, if you have room in your schedule, it will help you to learn so much more about Barcelona than you would've known before. My Barcelona City Planning class was my favorite class because I learned so much history about the city that I was then able to share with my friends and family members when they came to visit.
Spring 2015 Participant
courses were easy, best location in europe in my opinion, locals aren't super friendly but not a huge problem, tons of stuff to do, best city in europe
Spring 2015 Participant
Courses are informative and easy enough to travel and experience the culture without being swamped in school work. Barcelona is the Best, hands down, don't even ask me again. Locals are awesome and go on as many excursions as possible, they're already paid for.
Spring 2016 Participant
I felt that all of the courses I took while abroad were interesting and relevant to my major and minors. Every class was engaging and I fully enjoyed attending class every day. I chose to study in Barcelona and I couldn't have picked a better place for me. I lived in a homestay with a woman and her daughter who spoke no English so I found that that really helped improve my Spanish and immerse myself fully into the culture. ISA provided two travel excursions throughout the abroad experience and I would highly recommend attending both. I was able to meet people from my program that I will and have stayed in contact with after the semester was over.
Academic Year 2013 Participant
The orientations were great as well as the program directors, and the on site support staff. They were all very helpful and took personal interest in the students as well as being just great people.
Angeline Cheng,
Fall 2014 Participant
The staff in Barcelona are so sweet and they are always willing to help you whenever you need it!
Atticus Kreek Yondorf,
Fall 2014 Participant
Great staff
Spring 2014 Participant
great staff very helpful
Spring 2014 Participant
The staff was very helpful throughout the entire program.
Jenna Marie Chatillon,
Spring 2014 Participant
Absolutely wonderful. At the program's office there were always multiple people available to help you with whatever you needed, whatever that may be. The staff was all so nice and you could tell they truly enjoy what they do. It was really neat getting to know the staff and being able to learn from them, especially since many of them are Spanish natives.
Spring 2014 Participant
ISA was very helpful. They really helped me out when I had a problem.
Jeremy Michael Forman,
Spring 2014 Participant
The on-site staff was extremely friendly and helpful. By the end of the program most of them knew me by name.
Sarah Gronet,
Spring 2014 Participant
Although the language barrier was difficult at times, the program staff truly went out of their way to make you feel comfortable in your new environment, and to make your experience memorable.
Nina Patrikyan,
Spring 2014 Participant
On site staff was fairly helpful, definitely was helpful having them
Taylor Pearl,
Spring 2014 Participant
The on-site staff was awesome! They were there every time I needed help and had an answer to every question.
Craig Ratterman,
Spring 2014 Participant
All of the ISA staff is amazing. They will do whatever it takes to help their students.
Spring 2014 Participant
The staff at the ISA office was super friendly and very nice. Every time I went there they were really helpful and fixed all of my problems.
Spring 2014 Participant
staff took great care of us at all times.
Taylor Alyssa Young,
Spring 2014 Participant
Everyone in my program was very helpful, they always responded to any questions I had in a timely manner, and they were always attentive and more than willing to me with a problem I was encoutering.
Fall 2015 Participant
The staff was very helpful and quick to respond to questions.
Fall 2015 Participant
All staff was very helpful, always answered questions and emails quickly.
Fall 2015 Participant
very helpful
Fall 2015 Participant
The ISA Barcelona staff is extremely friendly and helpful. They will constantly check in with you to make sure that you are comfortable and that your classes are going well. The Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona staff might not seem as helpful because they have more students to keep track of and very few of the staff members speak English fluently.
Hannah Perry,
Fall 2015 Participant
The staff is extremely helpful and available 24/7
Spring 2015 Participant
The staff was great and helped me a lot
Spring 2015 Participant
The program will help you with anything and everything you can think of or need.
Academic Year 2013 Participant
I stayed with a host family, and it was probably the best and most impactful part of my stay in barcelona. Montse is an incredible person and host mom. She takes a genuine interest in the students, she wants to know about them their lives, helps them learn spanish, is patient and always corrects them, she is an amazing cook and really makes you feel at home in her home. I can't say enough about how great she is, she always invites the parents of the students to dinner if they come and visit and she even helps with their spanish homework. In short she is awesome.
Fall 2014 Participant
The South of France trip was a wonderfully planned bus adventure where I really got to bond with my fellow ISA students.
Angeline Cheng,
Fall 2014 Participant
The excursions and activities that I attended were all really fun and educating. I'm really glad I got to take part in them. I learned a lot and had a lot of fun while at it.
Atticus Kreek Yondorf,
Fall 2014 Participant
Very helpful for everything!
Spring 2014 Participant
excursions were ok - i wish we went to the capital (Madrid) or other more touristy places to see
i think the extracurricular activities/opportunities could definitely be better - we mostly had to find them on our own
i think the extracurricular activities/opportunities could definitely be better - we mostly had to find them on our own
Spring 2014 Participant
orientations were too long and pointless
excursions- not as fun as I would have hoped
excursions- not as fun as I would have hoped
Jenna Marie Chatillon,
Spring 2014 Participant
Orientation was helpful, the only problem with it was that it was held so soon after we all landed in Barcelona so everyone was really tired and didn't get as much out of it as they could have. Excursions, as I said above, were incredible. Many of them are included in the overall program price (They'll tell you which ones) so there's no reason not to go. They're such a great way to meet people and see more of Spain. Although I think my favorite thing about the program was the extracurricular activities/opportunities because there were always so many to choose from. Every week the program sends out a "newsletter" that includes super fun activities and ways you can get more involved. Whether it was a cooking class, horseback riding, concert in the city, there was always something to do.
Spring 2014 Participant
ISA planned fun trips!
Jeremy Michael Forman,
Spring 2014 Participant
I played on a soccer team while I was there, much like intramurals. It was a great experience that provided me with most of my closest friends abroad. The excursions allowed for me to interact with others in my program and make many new friends through walking tours and trips.
Sarah Gronet,
Spring 2014 Participant
Orientation was long and could have definitely been condensed.
Excursions were a great way to save money on travel costs, however they did not choose the most exciting places. Or, they at least could have organized more exciting things to do within the cities they took us too.
Excursions were a great way to save money on travel costs, however they did not choose the most exciting places. Or, they at least could have organized more exciting things to do within the cities they took us too.
Nina Patrikyan,
Spring 2014 Participant
Orientations were okay, information given was pretty basic and common sense. Excursions were fun, would have been cool to go to Madrid
Taylor Pearl,
Spring 2014 Participant
The excursions were fun! Traveling by bus allows you to see a lot of the area that you would not have else wise.
Craig Ratterman,
Spring 2014 Participant
The excursions are great. It's really fun to travel with a big group of kids in the program. ISA does an excellent job of structuring the excursions while still giving you plenty of freedom and free time.
Spring 2014 Participant
The orientation was somewhat boring, but you can't really help that as all orientations are that way. The excursions were great and an incredible time.
Spring 2014 Participant
orientations were pretty pointless. excursions were great--> make valencia 2 nights and not just one!
the tours when we first got there, of the cathedral and of sagrada were perfect. the british tour guide provided so much information which I would never have access to unless taking the tour.
the tours when we first got there, of the cathedral and of sagrada were perfect. the british tour guide provided so much information which I would never have access to unless taking the tour.
Connor William Vande Wege,
Spring 2014 Participant
apartment, good for accomidating my travels but if I could go back I would do a home stay. Wish I got more into the culutre
Taylor Alyssa Young,
Spring 2014 Participant
I participated in two of the excursions; I thought they were nice, however, I thought that we spent time traveling in buses than actually site seeing.
Fall 2015 Participant
Excursions were awesome and well put together. I went to Valencia, Toulouse, and Girona with ISA. I also did an optional paid trip to Morocco which was arguably my best trip of the semester.
Fall 2015 Participant
Orientation was helpful. Excursions were interesting. Lots of extracurricular activities were available.
Fall 2015 Participant
on-site orientation was long, boring, and uninformative.
Everything else was great.
Everything else was great.
Fall 2015 Participant
The on-site orientation was quick and informative. I was required to attend and I am glad I did. The program offered sponsored excursions to Valencia, Sitges, Girona, and the South of France. These excursions were built into the cost of the program, and included lodging and meals. I highly recommend going to all of the ISA-sponsored events that are offered. They are very fun, interesting, and necessary in order to obtain an authentic cultural experience.
Spring 2015 Participant
I was unable to go to all of the excursions, but the ones I did go to were a good way to see different cities in your prepaid tuition costs.
Fall 2014 Participant
I lived in a Home Stay with an absolutely wonderful single mom. When had to go to the hospital, she visited me and treated me like her own. She made me feel like I had a real family throughout the whole experience. Having a host family really allowed me to amerce myself in the Spanish culture.
Angeline Cheng,
Fall 2014 Participant
I lived in a homestay and I think it could've been a good fit if it weren't for the family situation. I really enjoyed the experience of living in a Spanish home. I didn't live too far from either campus so I either walked or took the metro, which was really easy to navigate.
Atticus Kreek Yondorf,
Fall 2014 Participant
Homestay! Great Fit! I was ready for anything and I got more than I expected!
Transportation wasfine~
Transportation wasfine~
Spring 2014 Participant
residencia - i liked it because there were a lot of other study abroad students from different programs staying in the same bulding/floor from all around the US, and there were also other international students staying in my residencia so i really enjoyed being able to meet so many different people
local transportation was pretty easy - people either walk or take the subway which was really easy to figure out and use on a daily basis - only thing i would recommend is to budget for subway tickets and cab fares (cabs are VERY very expensive) - i wish i had budgeted more more transportation
my typical daily commute to class was a 5-10 minute walk to the subway and then about a 10-15 minute ride and then about a 10 minute walk from the subway stop to my class
local transportation was pretty easy - people either walk or take the subway which was really easy to figure out and use on a daily basis - only thing i would recommend is to budget for subway tickets and cab fares (cabs are VERY very expensive) - i wish i had budgeted more more transportation
my typical daily commute to class was a 5-10 minute walk to the subway and then about a 10-15 minute ride and then about a 10 minute walk from the subway stop to my class
Jenna Marie Chatillon,
Spring 2014 Participant
I lived in the residencias, which are pretty much like dorms. It was a perfect fit for me since it was a great location and allowed me to meet so many other students from my program, other programs, and even local Spanish students. There was always someone around to do something with and by the end of the program I'd made so many friends in my building. And I have to emphasize both dorm buildings the program has are in fabulous locations. I lived right by a metro stop on a main line so transportation was pretty easy. It took me about 30 minutes to get to one campus, 20 minutes to get to the other, 10 minutes to get to my program's office, about 10-15 minutes to the beach and the main clubs/bars.
Spring 2014 Participant
I lived in an apartment. I would recommend it to any student wanting to go abroad. I took the metro but then learned walking to campus was easier!
Jeremy Michael Forman,
Spring 2014 Participant
I lived in a residencia (dorm) which was great. I had about two dozen fellow students from my program at the same location and also became friends with people from other programs that were also living in the dorm. I liked being able to cook, and have a bathroom in my room. Local transportation was great. The busses, trains, metro, and taxis make it easy to get anywhere you need to go. My daily commute was about a mile each way to class.
Sarah Gronet,
Spring 2014 Participant
I lived in a residencia. It was great always being around your friends and other students your age.
I walked everywhere! But on rainy days the metro was very easy to use.
I walked everywhere! But on rainy days the metro was very easy to use.
Nina Patrikyan,
Spring 2014 Participant
I lived in a residencia, which for me was great. It was very similar to living in the dorms, but it was great having so many people and friends in one place. It made going out in a group very easy and fun. The local transportation I used was the metro, it was very easy to figure out. It took the same amount of time to walk to most places, so I preferred to walk whenever I could.
Taylor Pearl,
Spring 2014 Participant
I lived in an apartment in Placa Catyluna and it was absolutely perfect! It gave me enough independence but I still felt safe. I walked to one of my campuses and the other campus I had a quick metro ride.
Craig Ratterman,
Spring 2014 Participant
I did a home stay and my host mom was one of the greatest people I have ever met in my life. I had a great roommate as well, I would definitely recommend the home stay option. Transportation in Barcelona is a mixture of the metro and walking, with a rare cab ride at night. The metro is the best in Europe. I would recommend buying the 3 month unlimited T-Jove pass, I definitely got my moneys worth out of it.
Spring 2014 Participant
I lived in an apartment. It was a great fit for me because I could have privacy and the rules were not strict.
I had to take the metro everyday which got old after awhile, but is necessary because Barcelona is a very big city.
I had to take the metro everyday which got old after awhile, but is necessary because Barcelona is a very big city.
Taylor Alyssa Young,
Spring 2014 Participant
I lived in Onix Residencia, I really enjoyed living there. I thought it was in a great location, central to almost everything and I felt safe at all times, and it was nice having the front desk staff to help with any questions I had. I usually took the metro everyday to class which was a 5 minute walk from my house, or on occasion I would take cabs, and they were always easy to find.
Fall 2015 Participant
I lived in an apartment, it was a little expensive with paying for my own food.
Local transportation was easy to use once I got the hang of it. My typical daily commute was about 15 minutes on a bus.
Local transportation was easy to use once I got the hang of it. My typical daily commute was about 15 minutes on a bus.
Fall 2015 Participant
I lived in apartment. It was a good fit for me because I got my own room and lived in a very nice neighborhood that wasn't too touristy. Transportation in Barcelona is awesome, Metro and busses were very easy to figure out and very clean.
Fall 2015 Participant
Apartment. Good fit, got a lot of independence when it was wanted, but also had good social interactions and a community through the program. Having roommates was really helpful as well. The only nice part would be to have more interactions with locals through the host family.
Local transportation was good. Depending on the day the commute was roughly 15-30 minutes from my apartment to class between walking and taking the metro.
Local transportation was good. Depending on the day the commute was roughly 15-30 minutes from my apartment to class between walking and taking the metro.
Fall 2015 Participant
I lived in the apartments, which was a pretty good fit for me. That said, I had planned to live in the apartments with one of my friends. Our request to live together was permitted, which was great! We had three other roommates. Five people shared four bedrooms. This caused some conflict as some were unhappy to share a room. I was not bothered by it, but I do know that all homestay students were given their own room. A part of me wishes that I had chosen to do homestay so that I could practice my Spanish a bit more with a host family. All said, I was happy with my apartment. It was very close to public transport (train, bus, taxi) and I could even walk to campus from there. It was about a 30-40 minute walk each way, to and from the UAB campus.
Spencer Richard Borison,
Spring 2015 Participant
Homestay, I enjoyed it a lot and learned a lot of Spanish and cultural prospects through the setup. Metros were very convenient as was walking most places.
Rachel Ann Hillen,
Spring 2015 Participant
I lived in an apartment. I really liked it. I felt like I had a lot of independence. My roommates and I all got along. My apt was really modern and well furnished. Transportation is super easy. Metro stop less than 5 min walk from my apt and from that you can just about anywhere.
Spring 2015 Participant
I lived in an apartment and it was the perfect fit for me. I don't think I would've been comfortable to live in a homestay, but my apartment was in a building with all local Spaniards, so I still felt as if I was getting a cultural experience from the apartment. My roommates were great and the apartment was in a very convenient location. Local transportation in Barcelona is amazing. Depending on the campus I was going to, I would either walk to class (20/25 min walk) or if I was going to the further class, take the metro about 4 stops.
Kelsey Cody Lee,
Spring 2015 Participant
Residencia- no it was not a good fit for me, I think everyone should HAVE to do a homestay--- much better experience
My local transportation was the bus and metro
My local transportation was the bus and metro
Fall 2014 Participant
My courses put a different spin on Business and allowed me to realize I wanted to obtain a Global Business Certificate. I really liked my Spanish Art and Cultural Heritage class because I learned about art then we actually went to visit the art in museums and on my separate trips within spain.
Angeline Cheng,
Fall 2014 Participant
I had a really good experience with my courses, although I had a hard time keeping interest in one of my classes because of the way it was taught. Overall, I enjoyed my classes and am really happy with my academic experience.
Atticus Kreek Yondorf,
Fall 2014 Participant
Lots of great classes and I learned a lot!
Spring 2014 Participant
be prepared for a very different style of teaching and class structure - teachers are not as hands on as they are at home and they're grading style is very different
Jenna Marie Chatillon,
Spring 2014 Participant
I loved my schedule and my classes. The teachers were so enthusiastic about what they were doing which made it easy to be engaged and learn from them. Most of my classes had a lot of field trips or outside-of-the-classroom time which was so different and fun.
Jeremy Michael Forman,
Spring 2014 Participant
My courses were informative and a good experience. I learned new material and was able to have teachers from around the world. Academically, the program was exactly what I was hoping for. Most of the work took place in the classroom, so that I could spend the rest of my time exploring Europe.
Sarah Gronet,
Spring 2014 Participant
Although the courses were not as difficult as they are at Leeds, I did learn a lot from my classes and my professors. You not only learn the material, but you also learn a lot about the spanish culture and how locals learn in their school systems.
Nina Patrikyan,
Spring 2014 Participant
Teaching styles were different which took some getting used to, but overall classes were great. Not too difficult, but not joke classes either. The small Spanish classes were great - made for a very comfortable environment for learning.
Taylor Pearl,
Spring 2014 Participant
Everything was very interesting and teachers were very fair.
Spring 2014 Participant
Academics were easy and more interesting. The teachers for the most part were great too.
Spring 2014 Participant
you learn more out in the world rather than in the classroom. teachers were awesome and truly cared about your well-being.
Taylor Alyssa Young,
Spring 2014 Participant
I really enjoyed my academic experience. I thought the classes I took were very interesting and hard enough that I had to do homework and study for tests, but easy enough to where I could travel almost every weekend and wouldn't have to stress out about a class. I enjoyed the professors as well, they were all very engaging and understanding.
Fall 2015 Participant
Academics were not rigorous, but still enriching. Some teachers really did not have the motivation, rightfully so, they are teaching study abroad courses.
Fall 2015 Participant
Classes weren't as valuable as classes at CU.
Fall 2015 Participant
They were great overall. Some classes were too easy to enjoy, and some required too much out of class work for a study abroad program. There were some small language barrier issues when explaining projects or on questions on tests, but they were easy to solve. Teachers in general were very friendly and supportive of students experiencing Barcelona.
Fall 2015 Participant
I enjoyed all of my courses. The teachers are all very passionate about their subjects and make time for each individual student. The Spanish language class was especially interesting and useful during my time in Barcelona. It is important to be proactive in adding or dropping classes because most students seemed to be making changes to their schedule. I was not on top of things during the add/drop period, so I ended up taking a class for which I could not receive credit.
Spencer Richard Borison,
Spring 2015 Participant
Learned a lot of Spanish and with a light course load I was able to explore the city and Europe.
Spring 2015 Participant
Classes were manageable and I learned a lot from a variety of teachers
Spring 2015 Participant
School was perfect.
Fall 2014 Participant
It was difficult to meet locals because of the large language barrier in Spain. Very few people in Barcelona speak any English. What helped me was to go out with fewer students, where it was easier for the locals to approach and talk with us. I loved meeting the locals!
Angeline Cheng,
Fall 2014 Participant
People are much more friendlier and open in Barcelona as opposed to Americans who mostly keep to themselves. It's easy to meet locals while strolling around in the city, eating out or basically just being outside your home.
Spring 2014 Participant
it was hard to meet locals because there were no Spanish students in our classes. ISA gave us the opportunity to participate in an intercambio exchange with local students, which i regret not doing.
Definitely seek opportunities to meet locals
Definitely seek opportunities to meet locals
Spring 2014 Participant
Spaniards are very different than Americans but at the same time, they are just as friendly and want to have a good time just like us. You have to get past the vast cultural barriers and obvious language barrier but after that meeting and befriending locals is great.
Jenna Marie Chatillon,
Spring 2014 Participant
I made a very close friend who was born & raised in Barcelona and he was a huge part of my experience there. I also met a lot of local students in my building and simply from going out at night. However it's not as easy as you'd think. You really need to be outgoing and WANT to meet people. This can be a little intimidating at times but completely worth it in the end. Interacting with locals is such an important part of the abroad experience and made mine 100 times better than it would have been if I only associated with the Americans in my program. My local friends taught me so much more than I would have learned, showed me amazing places in the city I would never have found with my American friends, and were a lot of fun to spend time with!
Spring 2014 Participant
Be respectful and polite. Even if you dont understand them or no what to say TRY!
Jeremy Michael Forman,
Spring 2014 Participant
I spoke to many people in restaurants and bars, and made some friends at such places. If you want to meet people, you have to approach them with smile and eagerness to learn the language or get to know them.
Sarah Gronet,
Spring 2014 Participant
You need to be friendly and really need to attempt to make an effort at speaking their language. They will really appreciate it.
Nina Patrikyan,
Spring 2014 Participant
If you really want to make a local friend sign up for the intercambios. My interactions were basic - just workers and sales associates. Did meet some locals at bars and clubs
Craig Ratterman,
Spring 2014 Participant
I met a few locals at bars and my host mom had 3 nephews roughly my age. You need to go out of your way to meet locals, as they will not go out of their way to meet you.
Spring 2014 Participant
get an intercambio to work on your spanish. watch your pockets at night and in the metro. not violent people, they just like to steal a bit. overall great people.
Taylor Alyssa Young,
Spring 2014 Participant
My interactions with locals was mostly positive, most were nice and more than willing to help if they spoke english. However, most of the time the locals didn't care to help and didnt speak english very well. Before you go try and brush up on your spanish, it will help!
Fall 2015 Participant
Interacting with locals was very easy because most spoke English, but I recommend trying to speak Spanish with them, they will appreciate it.
Fall 2015 Participant
Meet people more towards the beginning so that you have time to foster relationships with them. The best way is through reaching out and interacting with them. Explain yourself and your background, and ask them about theirs. The best way to have good interactions with locals is through talking to them and asking them questions. They're also usually interested in your story and why you're studying in Barcelona.
Fall 2015 Participant
It is very important to always be on your guard and to go places in groups. If you go places alone, especially in areas you are not familiar, it brings trouble. Travelling alone makes you a prime ticket for pickpocketing and being taken advantage of by vendors and shopkeepers. Many people in Barcelona are trying to make an extra dollar off of you any way they can, especially in touristy areas. Most people speak English in Barcelona, and many are willing to be patient with you if you try to practice your Spanish with them. There is a small minority of prideful Catalan speakers that will not have tolerance for study abroad students or other visitors/tourists.
Spencer Richard Borison,
Spring 2015 Participant
Never feel embarrassed and always take the opportunity to talk, you don't have to be good at it but you will learn so much more if you try always.
Rachel Ann Hillen,
Spring 2015 Participant
Theres some sketchy people at the clubs and out at night. Most are pretty nice and try to speak or do speak English. I found that I definitely had to go out of my way to interact with locals and never made any good friends with locals.
Kelsey Cody Lee,
Spring 2015 Participant
LEARN SPANISH---they appreciate it
Fall 2014 Participant
When I unfortunately ended up in the hospital for lung surgery, the on-site staff called and emailed me to make sure how my recovery was going and if I needed anything. They even visited me in the hospital! ISA was very good about getting the right insurance to cover the surgery costs, and the treatment I received at the hospital ISA recommends, was great. Even though it was a scary experience because I was in an unknown region, I felt like I was getting the best care.
Nina Patrikyan,
Spring 2014 Participant
no significant health issues - just a cold and allergies. Going to the pharmacy was very easy to get medicine for any health issues.
Fall 2015 Participant
I always felt safe and healthy during my time in Barcelona. The program does not include any sort of gym membership, so I had to ask my program staff for a cheap recommendation. I had no dietary restrictions, and I felt safe eating at any restaurant I went to in Barcelona.
Fall 2014 Participant
I felt very very safe. The neighborhood (Gracia) that I lived in, was very friendly and welcoming. It was a family neighborhood with cute plazas, little kids, and cute restaurants and shops. Everywhere in the city felt safe, even at night time. The only thing that I ever had to worry about was getting pick-pocketed.
Angeline Cheng,
Fall 2014 Participant
I felt safe in my homestay, although privacy didn't seem to be a thing.
Jenna Marie Chatillon,
Spring 2014 Participant
The only times I ever felt unsafe were walking home alone late at night, which girls shouldn't do anywhere anyway. I would mainly just say there's safety in numbers and if for some reason you must go home alone late at night, take a cab.
Sarah Gronet,
Spring 2014 Participant
I felt very safe in the residencia. But on the streets was a different story. Personally, I never felt scared for myself, but I did worry about my personal belongings. Pick pocketing was huge and it's important to always be aware of your things.
Nina Patrikyan,
Spring 2014 Participant
I felt very safe in Barcelona. The only thing is pickpocketing, watch your bags and phones especially!! iPhones are big targets. But the only concern in Barcelona is belongings, that's the main thing people will want
Taylor Pearl,
Spring 2014 Participant
So safe! Just do not walk alone at night.
Craig Ratterman,
Spring 2014 Participant
I never felt in danger of being physically harmed. Pick pocketing was a constant concern, it never happened to me but I would say it happens to over 50% of the students in Barcelona. Be smart, keep valuable in front pockets, watch your backpack on the metro, tourist areas are a hot spot for thieves. NEVER bring your smart phone out with you at night if you are planning on drinking. It will get stolen.
Spring 2014 Participant
I always felt very safe. Beware for pickpocketing.
Taylor Alyssa Young,
Spring 2014 Participant
I felt very safe at Onix; there was front desk staff present 24 hours of the day, and you had to have a key card to get in and out of the building. The area around my housing was safe as well, in general, I never felt unsafe in Barcelona. Just be careful and smart and you will be fine.
Fall 2015 Participant
Barcelona is a dangerous city in terms of pickpocketing, other than that it is very safe. Police are easily found and stationed throughout the city.
Fall 2015 Participant
I felt very safe. I recommend not walking home alone at night or taking a taxi.
Fall 2015 Participant
Safe, no advice outside of keep awareness of who's around you. Also try to stay with a friend when going out.
Fall 2015 Participant
I felt very safe. My advice is to always be on your guard. Barcelona is filled with pickpocketers, and these thieves will hang out in touristy areas. They have many tricks and often work in teams, so it is very likely you will come across one or two during your time there. Never carry more cash than you need to, keep your wallet in your front pocket, and never allow a stranger to come up and touch you--regardless if they seem friendly or attractive.
Hannah Perry,
Fall 2015 Participant
Pretty safe over all, but you are in a foreign country so know the laws etc.
Spring 2015 Participant
I felt very safe where I lived. The area was very well lit and cars were driving by at any time of night. My biggest advice in BCN would just be to be wary of pick pockets!! They are not violent but they're sneaky.
Kelsey Cody Lee,
Spring 2015 Participant
Don't use the metro alone at night if you are a girl. If you do, walk with a purpose, cover up and look mean
Spring 2015 Participant
very safe, watch for pickpockets
Fall 2014 Participant
Because I am blonde and very "American" looking, I looked more unusual to the Spaniards, so I got A LOT of stares. At first it made me uncomfortable, but I realized it was just because they were interested in me and where I came from. I didn't feel too discriminated anywhere.
Spring 2014 Participant
you will be stared at if you're white, american, or a girl. This isn't something to be concerned about but it does take some getting used to.
Sarah Gronet,
Spring 2014 Participant
Aside from the fact that you would be stared at on the streets because you are clearly a foreigner, I felt completely comfortable and included.
Taylor Pearl,
Spring 2014 Participant
I did not experience any intense discrimination. I felt very welcomed everywhere. My experience was incredible and I would not have changed a thing.
Craig Ratterman,
Spring 2014 Participant
They are a little racist in Spain, but I only noticed this on a handful of occasions.
Taylor Alyssa Young,
Spring 2014 Participant
I think that every person was willing and accepting of everyone; everyone wanted to make friends and be surrounded by a good group of people. I never experienced any discrimination.
Fall 2015 Participant
Catalonian people are somewhat racist to everyone outside of their culture, including Spanish people.
Fall 2015 Participant
I did not feel any bias or see any forms of racism or discrimination. Spain, especially Barcelona, is a pretty diverse and accepting place.
Hannah Perry,
Fall 2015 Participant
There is not much discrimination in Barcelona although many men will yell at you on the street "cat calls"
Fall 2014 Participant
I feel completely different now. I have a new view of the world that is incredible. I feel less restricted in my life and more free to explore more and find out more about my true passions. Life feels so much more exciting and inviting than it ever has before. I miss Barcelona and traveling already.
Angeline Cheng,
Fall 2014 Participant
I will always remember this experience and I will always want to go back. I made such good memories that I will never forget.
Spring 2014 Participant
i got to see how other people across the world live and new cultures - it made me very appreciative of what we have at home and this opportunity has given me a new point of view about the world and other cultures
Spring 2014 Participant
changed my life
made me grow up/mature
taught me a lot about people, cultures, and really opened my eyes to the world we live in
made me grow up/mature
taught me a lot about people, cultures, and really opened my eyes to the world we live in
Jenna Marie Chatillon,
Spring 2014 Participant
This experience left me so happy, open minded, appreciative, and knowledgeable about the world. I'll always treasure the memories I made, the people I met, and the things I learned in Barcelona. It also helped me realized what a passion I have for traveling and inspired me to plan another big trip, and travel as much as I possibly can the rest of my life.
Jeremy Michael Forman,
Spring 2014 Participant
I want to travel the world. I learned a lot about myself and now have greater confidence that I can do anything and go anywhere.
Nina Patrikyan,
Spring 2014 Participant
I've made life-long friends through study abroad, and I now both appreciate my life in the states but also see how European ways are better. I realize how lucky we are to have such an opportunity
Craig Ratterman,
Spring 2014 Participant
Studying abroad made me much more confident in my skills to cope with any situation.
Spring 2014 Participant
It gave me a different perspective on the world and life in general. Opened my eyes and makes me want to travel more.
Spring 2014 Participant
changed my life for nothing but the better. loved it so much.
Taylor Alyssa Young,
Spring 2014 Participant
This was hands down the best thing I have done in college. The lessons I have learned, the people I have met, and the amount I have learned about myself is incredible. I would do this experience over again in a heartbeat if I had the opportunity.
Fall 2015 Participant
I think I am more cultured, but also much more appreciative of my home. I didn't realize how different the cultures and luxuries in different parts of the world would be.
Fall 2015 Participant
I think my stay in Barcelona has greatly changed me, however I have no predictions for how that change will look in the long term.
Fall 2015 Participant
It is hard to say exactly how it will impact me in the future, but I can say with confidence that studying abroad was one of the best decisions I have ever made. I think I grew a lot as an individual by being away from family and friends in a different country. I became more understanding and appreciative of different people and cultures. I learned about the world the way I wanted to. It is truly different for each person, but I think everyone who goes abroad for a semester will tell you how great of a decision it was for them.
Spencer Richard Borison,
Spring 2015 Participant
There are so many take-aways and lessons I learned. I matured, stepped out of my shell and learned how to be completely independent.
Spring 2015 Participant
I think it helped me grow as a person and get through challenges.
Kelsey Cody Lee,
Spring 2015 Participant
I've gained a lot more confidence, independence and a better sense of direction
Matthew Ryan Lezak,
Spring 2015 Participant
I think this was an amazing experience that opened my eyes to so many different things. Growing up in the US, you think you understand other cultures but you really have no idea. This experience helped me become a lot more informed on other parts of the world and how to deal with people that aren't from your same race/religion/region/culture.
Spring 2015 Participant
Best experience that I will look back on and remember always.
Spring 2014 Participant
budget for twice as much as you think you'll spend. the euro is ridiculous and no matter how thrifty you are, you'll constantly be spending more money than you want to
Jenna Marie Chatillon,
Spring 2014 Participant
I never thought I'd be able to know and navigate the big, crazy city of Barcelona by myself but by the end of the program I was doing this with no problem. This made me feel so much more at home and happy there. It also was one of the things that taught me I could do anything I set my mind to, no matter how daunting it seemed when first coming up.
Jeremy Michael Forman,
Spring 2014 Participant
I played on a soccer team. I am also proud of the fact that I visited most of the countries in Europe and made the most of all of my travels, trying the locals foods and seeing the famous sites.
Spring 2014 Participant
To take advantage of every day you are there. You will miss it when you're gone.
Fall 2015 Participant
I'm particularly proud of the time I spent exploring the different neighborhoods of Barcelona. Each one has a uniqueness to it which can be appreciated, no matter the socio-economic status of that area.
Fall 2015 Participant
I was very proud that I tried everything I could. So much was offered by my study abroad program that I was trying a new cultural activity every week. These unique experiences prevented the days from running together and allowed me to learn more about Spanish history and culture.
Rachel Ann Hillen,
Spring 2015 Participant
I stayed about a month after my program ended and it was really fun to travel without anything really holding you down (like classes or an apartment). Staying in the right hostels its easy to meet unique and friendly people from everywhere and I really liked that.
Jenna Marie Chatillon,
Spring 2014 Participant
You'd think a big, touristy city like Barcelona would carry almost any American product you need but it doesn't. If there's any type of Asprin or something you can't live without, bring it. Also, come prepared with a list of places you want to visit, it'll be easier to plan trips and make it happen once you get there.
Spring 2014 Participant
travel light
Spring 2014 Participant
DO IT.
Fall 2015 Participant
The presence Catalan and how it effects learning Spanish.
Fall 2015 Participant
Plan everything down to the very last detail. I missed a couple flights because of last-minute planning and changes, and I could have avoided this if I had been more on top of things. Missing a flight or losing an important item can really put a damper on what should otherwise be an amazing trip. If you can, plan all of your trips with someone in your program who you see often. This will allow for more effective, collaborative planning.
Rachel Ann Hillen,
Spring 2015 Participant
I wish I had known that most people come with a friend or with a group of friends. Sometimes it got kind of annoying hanging out with people that already know each other. I just came by myself but most people are friendly and inclusive. I wish I had spent more time in Barcelona, there is so much pressure to travel every weekend just because you can, but traveling is exhausting and sometimes I really wanted to experience the city. there is so much to do in the city and surrounding area that I never got to do. So definitely leave some open weekends (preferable the warmer ones) for nearby excursions. I wish I had known meeting locals would be kind of difficult, you have to go out of your way to meet them.
Matthew Ryan Lezak,
Spring 2015 Participant
I wish I would've had a better idea of how to travel but I think that you need to figure it out for yourself and no matter how you do your abroad experience you are doing it right.
Fall 2014 Participant
You will make lifelong friends, keep lifelong memories, and you will change for all of your lifetime. It was the most amazing 4 months of my entire life. My life will forever change for the better.
Jenna Marie Chatillon,
Spring 2014 Participant
If you're on the fence about studying abroad, do it. It's the best experience you'll ever have and will change your life!
Spring 2014 Participant
everyone should get to experience this!
Jeremy Michael Forman,
Spring 2014 Participant
Going abroad is the single best decision a person can make while they are in college.
Taylor Alyssa Young,
Spring 2014 Participant
I would recommend study abroad to anyone who is thinking about it, the experiences you will have and the people you will get to meet will change your life. DO IT!
Fall 2015 Participant
Barcelona is amazing, and I cannot wait to return. If you study there, and go with the right mindset, you will have an amazing time.
Fall 2015 Participant
Be safe and have fun!
Spencer Richard Borison,
Spring 2015 Participant
Do it, you will never regret doing it but will regret it forever if you don't
*Returning to CU: Program Evaluation
Tara Marie DeBolt,
Fall 2017 Participant
At first, I thought the location of my school (UAB) was a little out of my way. But as Barcelona grew on me, I thought it was awesome that the Sant Pau was in a different location than my typical spots to go to because it made me adventure around different parts of Barcelona. With that, my classes were absolutely fantastic. I had amazing professors who were encouraging, engaging, and insightful. I had a variety of classes, from Contemporary Art of Spanish Tendencies to International Business. Every classmate I interacted with was a go-getter.
Spring 2017 Participant
The entire ISA program ensured that I had the optimal housing, location, interactions, and excursions. I had the most incredible four months of my life. Really embrace your neighborhood and the locals around you. That is what I did and it made the neighborhood feel more like home while exposing me to the culture. The excursions were so much fun, and I really recommend them.
Spencer Thomas Haddy,
Spring 2017 Participant
I really enjoyed my courses abroad! They enhanced my experience a ton. Having kids from all over the world was really awesome. My schedule wasn't that great, however, but I dealt with it. My location in Barcelona was great! I used the metro daily which took me to wherever I wanted to go. The locals throughout the city were so kind and welcoming. I got to practice my Spanish and really took advantage of my surroundings. My excursions also added to my experience as a whole. I saw so many cool places, learned new things about our world, and made so many new friends. My four months in Europe were unforgettable.
Vanessa Karyne Klopmeyer,
Fall 2017 Participant
I was in a home-stay. It was a great fit for me because it gave me a new perspective on the culture and helped me learn more Spanish. My home-stay family was so sweet and they really did become my family when I was abroad. I was very pleased with the experience. Local transportation was very efficient. I bought the unlimited metro pass which lasted for three months so I took the metro pretty much every where except for when it was closed I took taxis.
Rachel Reiter Armbrust,
Spring 2017 Participant
I lived in an apartment with four other girls. This was a perfect fit for me because I was able to create a space that felt just like home. I could go out and experience Spain and all it had to offer, but when I came home I could take a breath, relax, FaceTime my family, and feel like I was home away from home. I also loved being able to hit local markets for all of my groceries and cook meals. Something about cooking in my Spanish apartment was magical. I didn't actually use transportation much because I was in such a wonderful location. I was able to walk everywhere! School, the beach, the mall, and all the landmarks were just a few miles away. All the walking helped me stay healthy too and really helped me to see everything the city had to offer.
Fall 2017 Participant
The courses were great but they didn't communicate very well and it was frustrating because the grades and out success were still important to us despite that fact that we were traveling Europe.
Spring 2017 Participant
I volunteered through my ISA program and we made sandwiches for the homeless and then handed them out with a local organization. I also volunteered at Education USA where I spoke to Spanish students considering an educational experience at a university in the US.
Academic Year 2016 Participant
I recommend taking advantage of the intercambio opportunities. The program will pair you with a local student who is looking to improve their english just as you are hoping to improve your spanish. TAKE ADVANTAGE. This is one of the best ways to meet locals and interact on a deeper level with Barcelona overall.
Spencer Thomas Haddy,
Spring 2017 Participant
I had an intercambio which was awesome! She helped me with my Spanish and showed me the Spanish culture. Don't be afraid to talk to anyone--the locals typically loved when you put yourself out there.
Academic Year 2016 Participant
I had a couple minor health things to deal with and the medical care was superb and the insurance was A++. All of my needs were more than met.
Academic Year 2016 Participant
As a foreign student there will be times when you feel discriminated against for being American, don't take it personally. That said it is on our shoulders to be ambassadors for our country and to be a good spokesperson for our country. What I mean by that is don't be "the ugly American". Show the world that Americans can be respectful, conscientious, and kind.
Vanessa Karyne Klopmeyer,
Fall 2017 Participant
I think I will carry my abroad experience with me for life. It has changed my views, my attitude, and my whole outlook on life. It opened my eyes to the world and its possibilities. I made amazing friends and memories. I have also found that my abroad experience has become a great talking point in interviews for jobs.
Tara Marie DeBolt,
Fall 2017 Participant
I went on my program not knowing a single person. It was refreshing to me to get to be in a place to discover more about myself and how I want to grow as a person. From starting "alone" it pushed me to be vulnerable and put myself in situations I wasn't comfortable with. All the situations I put myself in ONLY benefited me. It made me become more confident, secure and independent.
Academic Year 2016 Participant
It is going to be an amazing experience but it's not a vacation it is still your life. Take care of yourself first and don't feel like you always have to be out doing something. There will be bad days and good days and overall you are going to have a life changing experience. Don't put too much pressure on yourself and just try to enjoy the experience as it happens to you.