Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Estudios Norteamericanos "Benjamin Franklin" Inicio

Alcalá was different than I had expected it to be. There were both positive and negative surprises, but I think that is normal As far as a study abroad experience goes. It is one that makes students as comfortable as that is possible while away from home. Particularly for my program, I was surrounded by a group of students from my home institution that I could share experiences with as well as a program coordinator who was very involved in our lives here. I regret feeling rushed and not being able to experience everything I had planned, despite having a relatively light course load.

I really enjoyed my time in Spain and was able to significantly improve my Spanish. I was also able to see a lot of Spain and other countries including Portugal, Italy, France, Germany and Ireland. My host faily was great and I will remember my time spent in Spain.

My personal experience studying abroad has been unforgettable. I have learned a lot about Spanish culture and have imporved my language skills tremendously. However, the greates benefit of studying abroad is the personal growth I 've experienced. I've discovered a good deal about myself that helps me to feel proud and confident. I've also met some amazing people and have developed rewarding relationships.

My family was wonderful I frequently spent time with my family and while I was traveling to other countries I would e-mail my family. we were always communicating. there really has not been a dull moment with my family since I got here, we are always laughing and having a good time. They allowed me to have my own space and freedom never making me feel obligated to do something I didn't feel comfortable doing. A great family.

I had a wonderfyul time with my host family. My family was very sweet and treated me as a member of their family. Meals were plentiful. Housing was excelent. If I had to chose a host family it would be the same. they made a major impact on time here! Very great family.

I love Alcalá and I think it is a great environment in which study and learn Spanish and a good place to learn about Spanish life. Living with a host family was a wonderful experience. I like Instituto Franklin and the classes there. All the staff are lovely. Personally, my regrets about the Instituto are taht I attended class with other Americans and was surranded by English. But this was a personal decision.

Alcalá de Henares was the perfect choice, I couldn't have picked a better place to study. Not too big, not too small, close enough to Madrid to make a day trip or easily get to the airport, but with less tourists thatn the big city and more opportunities to speak Spanish and act like locals. towards the end, Alcalá began to feel like home. I loved my roommates in the residencias and my classes were small and manageable, everyone was helpful. I can't express enough how happy I am to have been able to live in such a great place!

I liked living here because it was challenging and gave me a chance to practice my Spanish. I was able to interact with Spaniards and make new friends. I like that Alcalá is small and safe.

I enjoyed living in Alcala, it was small and public transportation was very easy. The family I had was amazing and the placement of the school was nice in the center. Slowly but surely I learned Sapnish. It is still not easy for me, but  I saw change and  I am very happy about it. Instituto Franklin helped me to realize I want to keep practicing Spanish and use it in my future career. I really enjoyed Alcalá, the Instituto Franklin and my experiences here.

I had an excellent experience in Alcalá this fall. Aside from the poor quality of the computers provided I found the staff friendly and the host families wonderfully welcoming. the town of Alcalá de Heranes provided a unique and authentic Spanish experience that made me feel like I'd found a second home.