The best time of my life May 06, 2024

By (Psychology, Amherst College) - abroad from 08/28/2023 to 12/12/2023 with

IES Abroad: Salamanca – Psychology

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Immersed in the vibrant culture of Salamanca, Spain, I found myself delving deeper into my major in Psychology, exploring it through a unique cultural lens that I hadn't encountered before. The academic aspect of the program was nothing short of exceptional. The classes provided insightful perspectives on psychology and encouraged me to understand it within the context of Spanish culture. This approach added a layer of depth to my learning that I hadn't anticipated, broadening my understanding of psychology in ways I hadn't imagined. Moreover, the Spanish language course and workshops offered by the program were excellent. Despite having taken Spanish courses previously, I found this experience to be far more enriching and informative. The immersive nature of the program not only improved my language skills but also deepened my appreciation for the Spanish language and culture. Beyond academics, the living arrangements were comfortable, providing a supportive environment. Additionally, having access to excellent healthcare options was reassuring, ensuring that any medical concerns were promptly addressed. One of the highlights of my experience was the consistent support and organization provided by the program staff. Their dedication ensured that every aspect of the experience, from academics to cultural immersion, ran smoothly, allowing me to focus wholeheartedly on making the most of my time in Salamanca. The cultural immersion activities, ranging from cooking classes to excursions and music workshops, perfectly complemented the academic curriculum. These experiences deepened my understanding of Spanish culture and allowed me to forge meaningful connections with fellow students and locals alike. In hindsight, my semester in Salamanca was truly the time of my life. It was a holistic experience that broadened my academic horizons and enriched my cultural understanding and personal development in ways that will stay with me forever.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 6 months+

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Great academic options at both the IES center and local universities!

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

Great administration that is always up to date and supportive

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Residence halls were great with individual bathrooms/singles, and shared kitchen usually with fellow study abroad student. Homestay options are also available!

* Food:

1 meal per day is provided at the 3 local university dining halls, and kitchens are provided for cooking. Groceries are very affordable and eating out is very affordable as well

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Great cultural immersion activities provided by the program

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Great healthcare options and insurance coverage

* Safety:

I felt very safe walking around along at night in the city

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

Studying abroad in Salamanca, Spain, through the IES Abroad program was an experience that went beyond just academics! It was a transformative experience that enriched both my personal and academic growth.

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)

Salamanca was really affordable! No transportation costs, very little food expenses, and everything is generally affordable compared to bigger cities.

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? 20 euros
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Use the Orange phone plan! It is much cheaper than international plans with Verizon or other US carriers

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

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? Spanish 202
How many hours per day did you use the language?
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? Join the Spanish Club at IES!

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • Americans
  • International Students
* 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?
  • Academics
  • Housing
  • City
* What could be improved?
  • More events (they were so fun!)
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I wish I would've spent more time exploring the city during the first few weeks of the program

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.