Why did you choose this program?
My university offered a study abroad program through Maximo Nivel.
What did your program provider assist you with, and what did you have to organize on your own?
Maximo Nivel arranged for transportation to and from the airport, room and board, student teaching placement, assistance with planning excursions, daily Spanish lessons, and cultural activities. They also arranged a week long service project with a local school. We were responsible for taking public transportation to and from our site and air travel. They really did arrange quite a bit.
What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone going on your program?
If you really want to experience the country, you need to be assertive. Make your wishes known and ask lots of questions. I wanted to see the special education schools. So I needed to make the contacts and be persistent. Step outside your comfort zone.
What does an average day/week look like as a participant of this program?
Monday-Friday: School from 8-3 (ride the school bus with the kids to and from) Spanish lessons from 4-5 and then dinner at host family's house.
Weekends: Excursions. There is so much of the country to explore.
Going into your experience abroad, what was your biggest fear, and how did you overcome it and/or how did your views on the issue change?
My biggest fear was being homesick and not feeling comfortable staying with other people. But I had my own bedroom and I stayed so busy that I rarely got homesick. There are so many experiences to have and it is really easy to communicate with people back home. I always had internet access. Now I totally have the travel bug and just want to immerse myself in different cultures.
Was it worth it?
1,000% yes. I would not trade a single moment of it for anything. It was an amazing experience and I got to meet amazing people. I am already trying to figure out how to do another trip.