Phenomenal Experience with IES in BsAs

Last fall semester (2011) abroad in Buenos Aires with IES was an experience I will never forget.

From the moment I stepped off the plane, I was in the hands of friendly, capable, and helpful IES staff (most of whom were Porteños). The orientation period was honestly one of the highlights of the trip; it gave us the opportunity to really immerse ourselves in the Argentine culture right away by providing tours around the city, day trips to estancias, and quality time to bond with our new teachers and the orientation staff. It also allowed us to really get to know our new peers and classmates.

The home stay that IES provided me could not have been better. I was placed in a family of eight, including a dog, and was welcomed home everyday with heartwarming ladrido! My Spanish (Castellano) got infinitely better just by living with my family, and it helped that their patience was also infinite.

The city of Buenos Aires itself was simply spectacular. A huge metropolitan area constantly animated by the energy of millions of people. Walking around the streets was in itself an enjoyment as I was subsequently sucked into the fast-paced hustle and bustle of an inner city. There was so much to see and and so much to do, I only wish I could have spent a year (or 2, or 3) exploring all the different barrios!

The nightlife could not have been better. The city is covered with fun social venues of all kinds, whether they be casual restaurants and bars, or party-hardy, early morning clubs, Buenos Aires has them all. Having the opportunity to meet locals and enjoy nights out with them in their element was beyond fantastic (and it helps that Argentines aren't too painful to look at as well).

Classes were informative and challenging, but not overwhelming. My language class at IES was a blast, and I quickly was introduced to the lunfardo of everyday speech. If you're interested in Marketing at all, take Professor Martin Tessi's Marketing in Latin America course--a lot of fun and a couple of field trips involved.

I couldn't recommend IES Abroad in Buenos Aires enough!

Go BsAs!