Americans Share their Experience at Spanish Universities

Erasmus can be an incredible experience for those who have the wherewithal to take the leap and expand their horizons. American students especially seem to be drawn to Spanish universities for their international experiences. Whether it’s the laid-back atmosphere, the amazing food, or the desire to learn about a new culture, American students can earn a lot by doing an Erasmus program in Spain. This article will highlight some of the major differences between school in Spain versus school in the United States. 

Class Dynamics 

American students agreed that the atmosphere of classes in Spain are much more interactive and open. “I noticed that the classes here are much more friendly, it really reminds me of a high school [secondary school]. Everyone is close in all my classes.”, says Erasmus student Owen McCann. McCann is a 3rd year undergraduate student from Manhattan College in New York. He also shares that his teachers have been very accommodating and have made class enjoyable: “My classes here are very fun as well. The professors always find a way to get us into groups and try to make the assigned work a bit easier for us.”  

Furthermore, another student pointed out that classes in Spain are much longer than classes in America. “Back in the US, I didn’t have that many 3-hour classes,” says 3rd year student Arlena Ceraj, “here [in Spain] “ I’d see [my teachers] once a week.” Ceraj attends Manhattan College and is studying political science and international relations. 

Workload  

 American students are noticing a drastic decrease in workload at their Spanish universities. McCann says that there is not a lot of homework compared to what he is used to in the States: “There is not much homework at all, the teachers give you all the time during class to finish all of your assignments.”  

Grading Policy 

Additionally, one student reports that the grading policies are different in Spain. Cadence Golden is a second-year student studying politics and sociology at her home university, The Catholic University of America. She came to Spain with hopes of improving her Spanish and immersing herself in a new way of life. Golden says that the grading procedures are not quite the same in Spain: “Back in the States, the testing is different. Here if you get a wrong answer or guess on a question, professors will take points off.” 

These are just a few of the major differences between school in Spain and school in the United States.