Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM)

The anthropology program was not as developed at the Complutense as at my home university and you have limited course offerings. It is a great place to study Arabic or Jewish mysticism, but not so great to study Tibetan Buddhism for example. Spain has strong ties to Latin America and North Africa, so perhaps if you are interested in Asia it would not be the best school to study at.

I wouldn't suggest any improvements, but be aware that the system of education will most likely be very different from what you are used to. It took me a while to get used to the teaching style and learn how to take notes in Spain. However, I found Spanish teachers to be extremely flexible and willing to help foreign students, so don't be afraid to ask for help. They really want you to succeed and several teachers let me do final projects in lieu of a final exam in compensation for my studying in a foreign language. Other foreign students I know received similar arrangements and help.

It is fine to gather tips before you leave for another country, but don't rely too heavily on other's impressions of your new host country because your experiences will be totally different. It is best to have no expectations and welcome the many surprises.

The level of education you receive will depend on the amount of effort that you put out. This school gives a certain amount of independance that I didn't receive from my home campus. It was the best part of my college education and I want to go back to Spain for graduate school.

Although Madrid does have a higher cost of living than many other cities, my hometown also has a very high cost of living, so I spent much less in Madrid and maintained a higher standard of living.

I liked having the freedom to decide where I wanted to live and the central location of the apartment I rented. I also enjoyed living with people in my age range as opposed to a family.