I'm Obsessed with IES Abroad

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

I studied abroad in Madrid during the spring semester of 2022 and it was the experience of a life time. Actually getting abroad was a little rocky, but from talking with other friends who went abroad, this seems to be a universal experience. I ended up accidentally arriving a week early for my program, so I spent some time in Spain by myself. This accident was great for my transition from home to abroad life because it gave me the chance to explore and come out of my comfort zone without the frenzy of the start of school and orientation activities. IES had a lot of resources set aside for students that I used frequently throughout the year. I had weekly tutoring for both of my biology classes, when I became sick during my time abroad, a physician came to my room to treat me, and the organized field trips throughout the semester really helped keep all of the abroad students close and connected. Over some weekends, I would travel with my friends to other countries. From this independence, I learned so much about myself and the way I fit into the world. I came to learn what empowers me and what I value/lean on in the midst of change. Going abroad was a huge period of consistent adjustment and readjustment. As stressful as this sometimes was at first, I am so much more flexible in the way I live my life, and my life is easier. As I was initially adjusting to the new stresses of life abroad, it was really important for me to have a safe space. I needed to create my own home. Having a really safe and homey bedroom was important for my relaxation and decompression from daily life. My apartment provided by IES was perfect. It was called “Mi Casa Inn,” and it was basically a hotel that only students lived in. There were other abroad students, and Spanish locals who lived there. This was amazing for integration and quick connections with other students. This was also really safe when going out at night because I always had friends who were going back with me. I am one hundred percent sure that IES was the best choice for my abroad program.

Would you recommend this program?
Yes, I would
Year Completed
2022