Meet Sarah, a college student from the University of Rhode Island, who took over the AIFS Abroad Instagram story recently to answer questions about what it’s like to study abroad in Barcelona, Spain during her fall semester! Watch as Sarah highlights what a typical day in the life looks like there.
The best way to improve your Spanish and immerse yourself in Spanish life and culture.
Stay in a shared apartment in a centrally located neighborhood of Barcelona.
Situated in the downtown neighborhood of L’Eixample; one of the most green and recreational areas of Barcelona. Near several bus lines and metro stops, which provide easy access to the university (and the beach!) in less than 30 minutes.
Internet access is included in all AIFS housing in Barcelona
Along with speaking Spanish, most people in Barcelona speak the regional language of Catalan as their native language. You will see signs in both languages throughout the city; it’s an excellent opportunity to be exposed to another language rich in culture.
Barcelona is one of Spain’s most energetic and vibrant cities. Not only will you find amazing modern and art nouveau architecture throughout the cities of Spain, you will also find world famous UNESCO Heritage Sites- the most in any one country after Italy.
Maya Edwards
¡Hola! Greetings from beautiful Barcelona, a city I love to call “home.” Having lived in many cities in Spain, I’ll be a great resource for you while you’re here in Barcelona. An educator and study abroad professional, I’ve been working with students both in Spain and in the U.S. for over 15 years. I earned a B.A. in Spanish and Communications, an M.A. in Spanish, and am completing a Ph.D. in Spanish Literature and Cultural Studies. I love working with students and am happy to help you navigate your own journey in Spain, Barcelona and beyond: broadening academic and personal horizons, making the most of your time in this amazing place.
My favorite aspect of being Program Director is spending time with students and seeing how much they grow after their study abroad experience in Spain. The AIFS Barcelona team is always eager to offer our guidance and support, as well as share ideas on how to make the most out of your stay. Barcelona is a beautiful and fascinating city; perfect for a study abroad program, not just because of its proximity to the beach!
The Program Director provides academic advice, introduces you to the community and handles communication with the University.
In addition to day trips and excursions, a cultural calendar of weekly activities and social events is included in your program fee. These activities will include both typical tourist sites and attractions and lesser known visits which take advantage of the expert knowledge of our local AIFS staff and give you a more authentic and insightful view of Spanish life. Typical activities, tours and visits may include:
You may be asked to pay a small supplementary fee for some events.
Volunteer opportunities are available through a local NGO to provide services to people in need within the local community.
UPF and AIFS organize a program of “intercambios” (conversation exchange) in which you can practice your Spanish with a native speaker while a Spanish speaker practices their English with you! The professors of English are always eager to find American students to participate in this program.
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Students can select an optional transportation package for all AIFS programs. Students who choose to book their own flights should meet up with group at the program location and will need to make their own ground transportation arrangements.
Below are fees by departure city based on average historical costs and subject to change. If you select this option on your application, the total flight package price will be confirmed in your account 6 months prior to departure. (Program fee is guaranteed.)
For more dates or questions, contact your program consultant:
(203) 399-5163 or email: aifsabroad@aifs.com
Social identity & access
One of the best things you can do before departure is enter into the journey knowing that your time abroad will be unique to this experience. The resources, community, and support available to you when abroad will likely be different as well. In order to help you prepare for your experience, we have compiled many resources about social identity and access in specific locations abroad. Your program staff will also provide you with more details pre-departure and during orientation.
Learn more