An Immersion to the Iberian

Ratings
Overall
5
Growth: 5
Support: 5
Fun: 5
Housing: 5
Safety: 5
Review

By my sophomore year of high school, I had been studying Spanish for my eleventh consecutive year. When the opportunity presented itself to study abroad through a two week immersion in Córdoba, Spain with Mr. Peter McGovern (my Chinese teacher at-the-time, actually!), I wasn't expecting my Spanish to advance as rapidly as it did in such a short time frame. During that year I was in Spanish III and attaining an average grade, but following this trip, I was able to not only receive an A+ in level three, but then skip over Spanish IV and enroll in A.P. Spanish Language & Culture my junior year. This is no coincidence - Mr. McGovern understood the power of immersing oneself in another culture using another language. From our arrival in Málaga, he had us sign language pacts to try and only speak Spanish for the whole two weeks, and my Spanish has never been the same since. This trip was incredible: from Granada to Sevilla to Córdoba, the views were spectacular, the bond of friendship bred between our small, intimate group of five students was strengthened, and the itinerary developed through Peter's expertise and experience really displayed a thorough and thoughtful embrace of Spanish culture.

The trip was amazing, and the lasting post-program effects just keep on giving. As a result of my enhanced view of the country, now as a college student, I am pursuing an International Studies major with a regional focus on Latin America. To this day, I still remain in contact with my host family from Córdoba over WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram, and even FaceTimed their four children my freshman year of college for a final project for my Spanish 301 course. They are, truly, my Spanish family!

In summary, two weeks in this program had the same effect on my Spanish as four years in the classroom, but these two weeks also have had a overall recurring effect on my life for almost four years, now. For future participants - don't hesitate. Just do it! With EdOdyssey and Peter McGovern, you are in good hands. Plus, your Spanish will never be better!

Would you recommend this program?
Yes, I would
Year Completed
2014
Media
Photos