Interview of the Month

Student Studying for 6 Weeks in Buenos Aires, Argentina

“In Buenos Aires you can go to expensive and luxurious malls and have street vendors on the way out.”

Was this your first time abroad?
No, but this is my first time in Argentina and South America. I’ve been to Canada and Mexico during holydays. This is also the first time I study abroad.

What did you like the most about Argentina?
Buenos Aires is a rather hectic city which reminds me much to LA, but it still counts with a traditional flavor present in every part of the city. In downtown you can enjoy tango performances and admire the colonial architecture. Or you can go to expensive and luxurious malls and have street vendors on the way out! It is an incredible experience.

How was the experience of learning Spanish in Argentina?
I came to Argentina with no Spanish knowledge. My host family didn’t speak English either, so I had to learn quickly to communicate even the most basic thoughts. The Spanish teachers helped me a lot, but I believe I learned more speaking with locals and my family. I always carried a notebook to write down all the doubts and new words I heard and didn’t know the meaning of. Then I would ask my teacher. This way I made great progress since I learned in real life situations.

Did you have the possibility of visiting different areas? Which one did you like the most?  
Not yet. After I finish my Spanish course in Buenos Aires I will spend a week in Montevideo and then come back and visit Mendoza. From Mendoza I have planned to go to Chile and then return home.

What did you like most about the school?
The school is big and cosy at the same time and is located in the heart of downtown; just four blocks form the Obelisco I think. So after lessons we always organized activities with my classmates and the school staff always gave us advice and directions. I remember we all went to Puerto Madero where I tried the best meat ever; I recommend a restaurant called Cabana Las Lilas.

What did you like the least about your experience?
Sometimes Buenos Aires can be a real madness. I think that for a start, if you don’t know any Spanish, it is far better to take your course in another location and then head to the capital city. I think I should have gone to Mendoza first to get used to the language and the culture. Anyway, I enjoy Buenos Aires in full and I had a great experience.

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