Why did you decide to study abroad with API in Granada?
Amy: First, I went to Spain because I was a Spanish major and wanted to learn the most accurate form of Spanish. Second, I chose API because they offered the most, the cost was reasonable, and they had come highly recommended. (And I would DEFINITELY recommend them to anyone who was thinking about studying abroad! Awesome program, awesome directors, and so very helpful!!) When I went they offered optional international excursions, and now they're included. Makes API even better!
What do you think made studying in Spain unique and special?
Amy: I would say living with a host family and NOT hanging out with my American classmates made this a very interesting and life-changing experience. I feel like I was able to experience so much more since I stayed with my host family for the entire year; most year-long students move into an apartment after the first semester. Overall, just immersing myself in a completely different culture changed my perspective on life, so much so that I am currently getting a MA in International Education so that I can become a study abroad adviser.
How did this experience impact your academic development?
Amy: I went back to Spain on my own for the majority of 2005 after going with API from 2002-2003, which I never would have considered had it not been for my initial experience. I am also currently working on a MA degree in International Education so that I may become a study abroad adviser and be able to tell students about my experience abroad.
I definitely live my life from a Spanish perspective now; more "work to live' as opposed to "live to work." Before living in Spain I was definitely more of the latter.