 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
Expectations
1. This is an academic program, not a trip to an amusement park or a senior trip to a tropical island. You will be taking classes and will need to study, write papers, and in general be a responsible student. This includes NOT indulging in self-destructive behavior like using illegal drugs, drinking too much, staying out too late, etc. If the Program Director feels that you are engaging in behavior that is illegal, inappropriate, dangerous, etc., he CAN and WILL send you home at your expense - NO REFUNDS. In such an event, you would risk receiving an F for each class.
2. The ONLY way your Spanish will improve is if you speak Spanish at all times. Linguistic research on study abroad programs (sources available on request) indicate that summer study abroad programs DO NOT help the student learn the language if he or she does not use it during the program. This includes classroom time AND out of class times. For example, if you speak Spanish on the bus each morning on the way to class, when you are at home and want to talk to your roomate, when you see classmates in town, etc.,your Spanish proficiency will increase dramatically. If instead you associate only with other Americans and speak only English with them, your Spanish proficiency will NOT change. Because of the importance of using Spanish only is so important, a great deal of your grade comes from your use of Spanish both in and out of the classroom.
3. You are expected to abide by Spanish laws and customs while in Spain.
4. Culture shock and the fact that you are in a different country can make you feel down. The Program Director and assistants are prepared to help you overcome these difficulties, find your way around, answer your questions, etc.
