Como un sueño...

Honestly, I could talk about my wonderful experience with the IES Granada program forever- I had the best time of my life during the semester I was studying abroad in Granada. I think that there are a few things that sets IES programs, and especially their Granada program, apart from other study abroad companies.
First, the support staff at Granada is AMAZING. The professors are so dedicated and enthusiastic- you can't help but be inspired! They really take the extra mile to make sure that your study abroad experience in the very best that it could be. I always felt that if I ever had a problem (be it with culture shock, housing or anything) I could come to anyone on the staff and they would do their best to help me.
Second, IES makes it possible for students to take classes at the local university and to do internships. I regret that I did not take advantage of this opportunity myself, but I do know people on my program who got to were able to explore a wide variety of interests, including wedding planning and photography! IES does a fantastic job finding opportunities that their students respond to and helping them have these amazing and unique experiences.
Third, they really encourage you to be involved in the community. Throughout the semester there were numerous presentations on extra-curricular activities and volunteer opportunities in the community and they highly encouraged us to participate. I took a tango class at the local university, for example! It was a lot of fun. They also provide fun one-time-only classes (cooking, wine tasting, etc.) and Open Mic Nights for IES students which really encourages a sense of community within the group as a whole. Almost all of my classes took field trips or made an effort to show students hidden gems in the community, which really helped make Granada feel like home.
I actually ended up staying in Granada for 2 weeks after the program ended- I just couldn't bear to leave. It truly is an amazing place. People were friendly and always willing to help. I raved so much about my time there that my cousin is actually studying abroad there now! For more information about the daily going-ons of life in Granada, please feel free to check out the blog that I kept while I studied abroad: http://buenviajegranada2012.wordpress.com/