I found it to be very beneficial. It got a little boring going to the same class for four hours a day, every day of the week, but that way you really learned a lot and got to know your classmates really well.

What was the placement exam like? Did you take it once before and once after the month-long language course?

I didn't find the placement exam to be very difficult, it's nothing to get nervous about and nothing you can really study for, it just tests to see where you are at. I took another test after the month-long course but it was different and not really comparable, it was more like a final for the course.

How were your semester classes and teachers?

I learned a lot from my teachers and thought it was very helpful that they were native Spanish speakers. Classes were difficult but there wasn't much homework involved. I felt like I really learned a lot in these classes.

What were the other students like?

It was really interesting to study with students from all over the US and the world. I enjoyed observing the cultural differences. I made a lot of friends.

How was your host family?

I absolutely LOVED my host family, they are what really made this trip amazing for me. I am going back to stay with them in May. I really encourage everyone to stay with a host family because you get a feel for the culture and this is where I feel I learned the most Spanish. Also, you feel more at home.

Other Testimonials

Spring 2011

How was the food?

I lived with an amazing cook who owned a restaurant, so I loved the food. There was no red meat, a lot of chicken, and seafood.

How was traveling to and from school?

I had a 10 minute walk to and from school through really pretty sidestreets.

Did you travel?

Yes, the best part of being in Europe is that it is so easy to travel around. Flights on skyscanner.com are cheap and convenient.

If so, how was it traveling around Europe?

Amazing! Skip Milan, do Rome. Paris is a MUST! But be overcautious of your belongings in these tourist cities.

Did you feel safe?

I always felt safe, however I would not walk alone at night. And be sure to watch your personal belongings, especially your passport.

Now that you are back, how do you feel you are doing in your ISU language classes?

ISU language courses seem somewhat slow-paced now, and I honestly feel that I learned more in my five months in Spain, than in my eight years of language classes.

What did you like about your study abroad?

Everything was so wonderful, it was a life changing experience. You become so independent and really mature a lot in this time.

What did you not like about your study abroad?

Leaving, it was the hardest thing I've ever had to do. Not a day goes by that I don't think about my life in Granada. All of us who went together feel the same and we reminisce often.