Argentina : Reviews (Buenos Aires)

I appreciated that degree of independence this program allowed me to have during my time in Buenos Aires. We had enough scheduled group activities to experience important cultural aspects that we may not have otherwise, however for the most part I was free to explore what I wanted to. My interest was in getting to know some locals and exploring less touristy locations to better experience the culture and I think I really had a chance to do that.

My favorite part of this specific program was the amount of cultural experiences we were provided with while in Buenos Aires. Not only were we learning about history and culture in a classroom, but we were actually getting to see that history and culture while out in the city. For example, we would read about tango and elements of masculinity in class, and then get to see real tango dancers and learn how to dance it ourselves. Other weeks we would read about the effect of the dictatorship of the '70s on Argentinian politics, and then we could go out and see actual civil demonstrations in public. Also, getting the opportunity to practice actual conversational Spanish with native Spanish speakers and having to hear it all the time was what really impacted my language ability and improved it in a way that Spanish literature classes can't. Also, living with a host family gave us an instant connection to the Argentinian people and culture. The conversations with them and our native Spanish teachers expanded my vocabulary and knowledge of the cultural context. All in all, every moment of the trip was a learning experience, both in and out of the classroom.

My favorite part of the program was all of the organized activities outside of class. They were incredible and were definitely things that I would have missed had they not been scheduled through the program. It also gave my life a lot of structure when I was overwhelmed by the volume of opportunities and options that I had while I was there.

My favorite part was meeting new people. Going into the program, I honestly had no idea what to expect. I didn't know anyone, and I was a little bit apprehensive about this in the beginning. In the end, I had nothing to worry about because everyone (KU students, faculty, and University of San Andres faculty) was so amazing and kind.

My favorite part of the program was that I felt like the class schedule was set up in a way which allowed us to explore the city well and have both challenging classes that helped us with our Spanish skills, but also have the rich cultural experience that can only be had outside of the classroom.

I had many first time experiences while being abroad, such as simply riding in a taxi, and it was all very scary not only because it was a new experience but it was also in a foreign country. Coming back from Argentina I feel that I can do absolutely anything and no one can stop me. Gaining that confidence is probably the most rewarding thing that I received abroad.

The elements of the program I found most rewarding were being able to stay with and get to know a host family and experience the culture firsthand by living in the middle of the Buenos Aires. It is truly amazing to be able to get to know and communicate with people who have lived in Buenos Aires their entire lives and know the culture. In addition, living in the middle of a huge, bustling city full of history is incredible. It is so easy to visit historic places and really immerse oneself into the culture.

The most rewarding part of the program was developing relationships with Argentines and developing practical language skills outside of the classroom.

It was overwhelmingly satisfying to get into a rhythm day-to-day and know exactly how to communicate with the people around me despite a very different culture and language.

I have to say that the classes are the most rewarding part of the program. While they were very intense, they were very fun, and you could see your progress at the end.

I found the connections and the people incredibly rewarding. I very much enjoyed living with a host family and getting to learn more about their culture and traditions. My host family welcomed with open arms and I loved getting to meet their family.

I really appreciated how the program focuses on hands-on learning. This allows you to see what you are learning in action, which is incredibly rewarding.

My confidence in speaking Spanish increased dramatically. I have a better grasp of the grammar because the program really reinforced concepts I had learned before but never fully understood or used.

When traveling and experiencing new countries, you never return the same. It is important to keep your mind open and not be afraid to make mistakes when learning a new language and culture.

I learned that every student should try to participate in a Study Abroad program. Not only do you learn so much about another culture and language, but you also learn so much about yourself and the kind of person you want to be.

I learned that 50 degrees in Buenos Aires is a bit chillier than 50 degrees in Kansas, so pack some sweaters and a good jacket.

The best method of improving all aspects of Spanish skills (grammar, conversation, reading, writing) is to be immersed fully into a Spanish speaking culture. No class in the US will match the experience of studying abroad.

I learned a lot about the cultural aspects of Argentina and they really helped me open my mind to the societies of countries outside of the one we live in.

I would recommend future students to spend time with their host families, as the conversations with my host family were some of the most interesting, I've ever had. Even just sitting down and watching tv does wonders to your comprehension skills.