Best study abroad program in Salamanca!

I cannot recommend the JMU study abroad program in Spain enough. It was phenomenally well organized starting with the application process right on through to the first semester back at JMU after studying abroad.

The preparation courses helped me get acquainted with the students that would be in the program with me. And it set my mind at ease because I was able to see how my language skills fit into the program and get a glimpse into what I could expect on the day to day.

I loved my host family and thought that they were fantastic. We spoke only Spanish in the home, which expedited my learning process. The homes were all conveniently located to the town center and campus. Food was fantastic and the care and concern my host family showed for my well being while in Spain helped take the edge off of being so far from home.

The class work was interesting but not over the top with homework and coursework so that I couldn't experience Spanish life. We had weekly tutorials to help us get acclimated to Spanish life and keep our language skills progressing. The faculty had experience working with American students, which helped. They were familiar with JMU and our "usual" coursework stateside.

The weekend excursions were top notch. We stayed at fantastic hotels, had wonderful guided tours of major cultural points, but we also had a stipend and time on our own to experience each city as we wanted.

In short, this was the best experience of my life and, when compared to friends who studied abroad elsewhere or through other universities, this was by far the best value and education. I would DEFINITELY recommend this program.