Why did you choose this program?
As a Spanish major, I wanted a more rigorous language program. I also wanted to really experience a new culture through work that could be applied to my discipline. Creating new media and journalism products with locals is exactly what CIEE CNMJ offers, with all courses being taught in Spanish.
What did your program provider (or university) assist you with, and what did you have to organize on your own?
Housing, course load, and most finances were mediated through my program provider and university. All of the things that needed to be organized on my own were very manageable.
What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone going on your program?
Enjoy it! Take advantage of all the projects and get an early start. It's more fun and make friends, weather Spaniards or fellow foreigners. Embrace every moment. I got so much more value out of staying for the full year as well.
What does an average day/week look like as a participant of this program?
Attending class, exploring the city through interactive course activities, traveling, eating, exploring, and experiencing.
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?
I was worried mainly about making grammatical mistakes or not knowing how to communicate in another language with another group of people, but giving into making mistakes and failing every once in a while really set me free and let me have a fuller, better experience.