I began my academics in Buenos Aires a month before the normal semester began, the Latin American Studies-Early Start program at the University of Belgrano. Though for the first weeks there weren’t many other students, I was able to get a good idea of how my full semester would be.
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| Universidad de Belgrano |
Why did I choose the early start?
First of all, my major is Education and Spanish. Therefore, I am required to study abroad in a Spanish-speaking country by my home university.
I talked with many other students with a Spanish major, and after reading about the benefits of staying in a Spanish speaking country for as long as possible, I thought it would be best to start early!
I've also heard from many study abroad veterans that the first month was the hardest and most exhausting. I totally agree with them. I am still so tired by the end of the day! It has not been an easy adjustment, but I am so happy to have had the lighter workload for my first month here, it has taken some pressure off before beginning the full, normal semester!
First month down
The first month consisted of one intensive Spanish class. This class was extremely beneficial for me to refresh on grammar and some basic conversation.
My professor was also awesome! She is very passionate about teaching and loves the art of language. Throughout the four weeks, she gave us examples of “porteño” slang and she pushed us to speak Spanish at all times. It was not the easiest class, but it helped me work on the basics as I learned to adjust to living and going to school in Buenos Aires.
There were students from all over the US in the early start program, so it was great to meet others before the semester took full swing!
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| Coffee at local café :) |
Unlike my school in the US, all of my classes are in one building at the University of Belgrano. There is not a campus, but just one central building. My university here is about a 10 minute walk from my homestay, I can't complain! The walk to school is one of the best parts when you pass by beautiful homes and find new coffee shops you want to try out.
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| One of the many beautiful buildings I pass on my way to class. |
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| I love the brick on this sweet place! |
Overall, if you are questioning whether or not you should do the early start program, I say go for it! An extra month helps you adjust for the semester ahead of you. With only one class, you have some time to explore the city and get used to your surroundings!
Summer S. is the Spring 2017 MOJO Blogger in Buenos Aires, Argentina. She is currently a Junior studying Education & Spanish at University of Wisconsin - La Crosse.