IFSA: Advanced Language and Culture in Buenos Aires

I studied abroad in the 2017 fall semester with IFSA-Butler in Buenos Aires, Argentina. It was one of the most challenging, inspiring, at times frustrating, intimidating, rewarding (ect.) experiences of my life. I found I was able to immerse myself and connect with a whole new culture and way of living, most of which was done outside of the classroom. Considering that all of my courses were taught in Spanish--that was a challenge to begin with, so I was thankful for the level of difficulty in the classroom. The professors emphasized that it was more important to learn from trial and error while actively practising the language rather than determining your grade from a test score. I was able to explore art, history, politics, and film in a whole new way, all the way working on the most important component, my language skills. From learning about the life of my host mother to playing on a local soccer team to travelling on a whim to some of the most far-out and remote locations I never knew existed; I loved every minute of study abroad, even the hard moments when I didn't know I could do it.

IFSA Butler facilitated the experience I was looking for. As a fairly independent person who wanted the opportunity to create myself outside of a super organized American program, IFSA provided me with the freedom to enroll in local universities and create my own personalized experience. While I absolutely loved my host mom, I knew various people that wanted to change, and IFSA was incredibly responsive to such issues. Beyond this, Argentina is absolutely beautiful and I would recommend to anyone who is considering studying abroad in South America to consider going there and on this program. You will have the opportunity to improve your Spanish, live in a vibrant beautiful country, and make friends from all over the world.