Estudiar en el extranjero
¿Dónde está el mejor lugar para estudiar español en el extranjero? ¿Con cual programa?
Where is the best place to study spanish abroad? With which program?
Im going to be a college Junior and im looking into different study abroad programs! Any input is very helpful! Thanks!
5 Answers
The location should be wherever you would like to go. When I studied abroad for a semester, I went to Argentina. I chose Argentina because it seemed like everyone else in my classes were going to Spain--I just wanted something different.
I also went directly and was not enrolled in any study-abroad program; I suppose using a program has its pros and cons depending on the individual. A lot of my friends I met down there were in various programs; however, all I really learned about the programs is that they offered a lot of "cultural excursions" and helped students transition between the two countries.
Those things are not solely tied to study-abroad programs though--the university itself can be a great resource. For example, I studied at the Universidad de Belgrano and I was able to go on some "cultural excursions" directly through the school. Also, the study-abroad staff were very helpful in explaining how to obtain our student visas, etc.
Now it should be said that Spanish-speaking countries have a reputation for being unsafe, yet alone unstable. Whether or not that reputation is truthful, I will not decide due to ignorance. However, it is easy to say that a large city in South America and a large city in North America will most likely carry the same concerns and potential dangers. The best solution is just being level-headed and cautious--and by cautious I do not mean hyperviligant, but for example, the same way you would act when you are outside of your hometown: comfortable, but understanding and adapting to a foreign place. Don't be paranoid--be adaptive.
The best advice that I can give to you is this: choose a country that interests you, but also a country where you feel comfortable and safe enough to explore freely. Practice your languages without feeling ashamed. Go where you want to go and do what you want to do, but keep an open mind: basically, don't fall into the facebook mindset that your study-abroad experience is only for taking pictures and sharing "adventure" stories when you get back home. Finally, if you main goal is language fluency--live in a home-stay accommodation, but don't be afraid to switch it for another if it sucks.
Enjoy! :D
I suggest the Instituto Cultural Oaxaca in Mexico. It's a great school, very affordable, and a safe area.
Me sugerir iniciar lanzar del cohete inmediatamente.
I suggest initiation of the rocket launch immediately.
Go to Madrid and enjoy yourself.
Gracias a todos! After much research and discussion, I have decided to study in Viña del Mar, Chile at the Pontifical Catholic University of Valparaiso. Thank you!
