FAQ: All about don Quijote's scholarships and grants

Submitted by admin on Fri, 02/17/2017 - 08:43
Frequently Asked Questions about scholarships and grants that can be obtained to study Spanish in don Quijote schools in Spain and Latin America. FAQ: All about don Quijote's scholarships and grants Frequently Asked Questions <b>Student Scholarships</b>

Some students do qualify for scholarships. Here is more information about how to apply.

 

Is don Quijote subsidized by the CSN? (Applicable to Swedish students.)

Of course it is! don Quijote is proud to be a center that has one of the highest percentages of students subsidized by the CSN. Applying for grants and loans is easy: you can call the CSN and ask them to send to you the necessary forms. Their number is: 0771-276 000. One of these forms (5509W) is a reservation confirmation that we will send you as soon as we confirm your registration (with a deposit of just 250 Euros). 

The CSN usually takes about 3 weeks to process the application from the time they receive it. That’s why you should register at least five weeks before the starting date of your course. This way you can have the money in your account two weeks before classes begin (which is when you must have the rest of the course fee paid). 

Can I apply for Bildungsurlaub? (Applicable to German students.)

Of course you can. All don Quijote schools in Spain and most of don Quijote schools in Latin America are recognized by the German government in specific states and qualify for the Bildungsurlaub scholarship, although this may not be true for partner schools.

Our Spanish courses are recognized by the following federal states: Hamburg, Schleswig-Holstein, Bremen, Brandenburg, Saxony-Anhalt, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Rhineland Palatinate, Saarland, Berlin, Lower Saxony and Hesse.

In Spain, you are required to book a don Quijote intensive Spanish course with a minimum of 30 hours of group classes per week. In Latin America, you must take an intensive Spanish course with a minimum of 25 hours of group classes plus an additional 5 private classes per week. In Lower Saxony, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania and Hesse, students must also take additional classes to meet requirements.

The regions do have strict rules which must be met, which is why we must receive each request at least three months prior to the planned starting date.
 

why-donquijote

Can I get medical insurance?

Yes. We offer travel medical insurance coverage throughout Spain and in all our schools' destinations in Latin America (except Cuba).

Do I need medical insurance?

It is not mandatory, however we do recommend that all students take out a health insurance policy that guarantees coverage. Our don Quijote policy is a great option and can be taken out in blocks of four week periods.

We advise all EU citizens to bring their European Health Insurance Card EHIC (formerly the E111 document) with them to their don Quijote program. If you require medical treatment, this card and your medical bill will allow you to be reimbursed by your country of origin for any medical expenses incurred while abroad.
 

Is there any limitation to being able to take out health insurance?

The only limitation for medical insurance is in Latin America, where the age limit is 65.

FAQ: All about health insurances recommended to study in don Quijote

Submitted by admin on Fri, 02/17/2017 - 08:38
Frequently Asked Questions about the recommended health insurance to travel to Spain and Latin America and during your stay at don Quijote schools. FAQ: All about health insurances recommended to study in don Quijote Frequently Asked Questions <b>Insurance</b>

We want you to be able to have a worry-free experience, which is why we recommend taking out an insurance policy if you don't already have one. Read below for more information.

Can I get medical insurance?

Yes. We offer travel medical insurance coverage throughout Spain and in all our schools' destinations in Latin America (except Cuba).

Do I need medical insurance?

It is not mandatory, however we do recommend that all students take out a health insurance policy that guarantees coverage. Our don Quijote policy is a great option and can be taken out in blocks of four week periods.

We advise all EU citizens to bring their European Health Insurance Card EHIC (formerly the E111 document) with them to their don Quijote program. If you require medical treatment, this card and your medical bill will allow you to be reimbursed by your country of origin for any medical expenses incurred while abroad.
 

Is there any limitation to being able to take out health insurance?

The only limitation for medical insurance is in Latin America, where the age limit is 65.

why-donquijote

When will I know my class schedule?

You will not be able to know the exact schedule of your classes until 7 days before starting your course. In general, classes take place in the mornings from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and afternoons from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. but there is some flexibility.


 

What textbooks are used?

Our experts publish our own don Quijote books to ensure we are using relevant and updated material. You will receive your textbooks on the first day of class.
 

Can I earn university credits for attending don Quijote courses?

Yes, you can earn university credits while studying with don Quijote. We already have an agreement with many American universities and we would be happy to start a study program with your university. 

If earning university credits is important to you, let us know on the first day of class because you may have to take some specific tests according to the American academic system. 
 

Is there any age limit for joining our courses?

In regular courses the average age is 18. (We offer special courses and summer camps for students under 18.)

Age has never been a limitation for us. In fact, we have programs that span very broad age ranges. So far we have welcomed adult students from 19 to 83 years old. It's always a good time to learn Spanish!

How is my Spanish level determined?

We determine the make-up of the group according to the students’ abilities. The first day of the course begins with an oral and written test. If you are a beginner you will start directly in a beginners group.

Can I earn any official certifications?

Yes, of course. We offer great preparation courses as well, with a very high pass rate.

For students of Spanish as a second language we recommend testing for the DELE (Diploma de Español como Lengua Extranjera) certificate. This is the most well-known exam and is ideal if you are thinking of working in a bilingual office one day. There are six levels with six corresponding exams you can take to earn your certificate. We guarantee you will pass after taking a DELE preparation course with us!

The SIELE (Servicio Internacional de Evaluación de la Lengua Española) is also an excellent choice, and is one of the newer exams available. We also offer great preparation courses for the SIELE. This exam must be renewed every two years and tests Spanish as a rich, varied language with different vocabulary and phrases throughout the world. This exam is especially helpful for getting into universities and landing prestigious jobs in the Spanish-speaking world.

If you are specifically interested in business, we recommend that you take the Chamber of Commerce Business Spanish Exam. This exam is also officially recognized and focuses on a wide range of business-related topics. Our preparation course is incredibly interesting; you are sure to learn all about finance, politics and tourism as it relates to the Spanish-speaking world, and beyond.

What type of certificate will I receive from don Quijote at the end of my course?

At the end of the course you will receive a certificate of accomplishment if you have attended at least 85% of your classes. This certificate indicates the course you took, duration, objectives, Spanish proficiency level, special subjects, additional courses and the number of hours completed. 

If you completed less than 85% of your classes your certificate will only show the actual number of classes you attended. 

If you are from the United States, talk with us at the beginning of your course. We can give you an evaluation that meets the American rating system (eg. A+, B-...), which is necessary for earning university credits.
 

Can I take private classes at don Quijote?    

Of course! In addition to group courses, don Quijote offers one-to-one private Spanish classes at all don Quijote schools, for all levels. You may also request customized language content to learn the vocabulary of a certain field such as literature, business, medical Spanish or any other subject.

The price is per hour, with packages available when you take five or more classes per week, and/or study in semi-private classes with a friend.

Our Premium courses allow you to easily combine a mini group course with one-to-one classes, priced in price packages. Combining a group course with private classes is a highly effective way to make maximum progress in your Spanish skills in a limited time.
 

Will I be able to transfer academic credits from don Quijote to my university?

If you are thinking about obtaining credits for your university, it is very important you tell us on your first day of class, since you will have to take specific tests for us to evaluate you according to your academic system.

What happens if there are no students with my same level?

This is very unlikely at don Quijote. One of our strengths is that, due to the large number of students we have all year round, we can always make groups not only for each level, but also for sub-levels, which guarantees that you will always be with the students of your same level and give you more oppotunities to practice.

Do I have to take an exam after each level?

This is not necessary since our teachers make continuous evaluations. However, if you are studying with us over a long period, we would like to give you an occasional exam so that you can clearly see your progress. This will encourage you to keep learning!
 

What is the maximum number of students per class?

For intensive and super-intensive courses, we guarantee that you will never have a group of more than 10 students at a don Quijote school. Typically, the classes are much smaller, but it varies depending on the destination, course and time of year.
 

Does don Quijote offer business courses?

Yes, we do! We offer Premium Executive Programs, Chamber of Commerce Business Spanish Exam Preparation Courses and Private One-on-One Classes.

Our Business Exam Prep Course is ideal for boosting your resume with an official certificate. You must have at least a B1 level to sign up for this course.

Private one-on-one classes can be arranged to focus on business, just let us know what you're interested in.

Our Premium Executive Programs are complete packages of intensive classes, networking lunches with professionals, private classes and private online classes. 

Do you offer special prices for groups?

Yes, We offer special pricing for groups of 6 or more. We love working with travel agents and teachers to coordinate group trips as well! Contact us at groups@donquijote.org for more information.

FAQ: All about don Quijote Spanish Courses

Submitted by admin on Fri, 02/17/2017 - 08:26
Frequently Asked Questions about our Spanish classes and courses. Everything you need to know about schedules, books, credits, certifications and more. FAQ: All about don Quijote Spanish Courses FAQ <b>Our Courses</b>

We compiled our most common questions here to answer all of your pending questions regarding our language courses.

When will I know my class schedule?

You will not be able to know the exact schedule of your classes until 7 days before starting your course. In general, classes take place in the mornings from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and afternoons from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. but there is some flexibility.


 

What textbooks are used?

Our experts publish our own don Quijote books to ensure we are using relevant and updated material. You will receive your textbooks on the first day of class.
 

Can I earn university credits for attending don Quijote courses?

Yes, you can earn university credits while studying with don Quijote. We already have an agreement with many American universities and we would be happy to start a study program with your university. 

If earning university credits is important to you, let us know on the first day of class because you may have to take some specific tests according to the American academic system. 
 

Is there any age limit for joining our courses?

In regular courses the average age is 18. (We offer special courses and summer camps for students under 18.)

Age has never been a limitation for us. In fact, we have programs that span very broad age ranges. So far we have welcomed adult students from 19 to 83 years old. It's always a good time to learn Spanish!

How is my Spanish level determined?

We determine the make-up of the group according to the students’ abilities. The first day of the course begins with an oral and written test. If you are a beginner you will start directly in a beginners group.

Can I earn any official certifications?

Yes, of course. We offer great preparation courses as well, with a very high pass rate.

For students of Spanish as a second language we recommend testing for the DELE (Diploma de Español como Lengua Extranjera) certificate. This is the most well-known exam and is ideal if you are thinking of working in a bilingual office one day. There are six levels with six corresponding exams you can take to earn your certificate. We guarantee you will pass after taking a DELE preparation course with us!

The SIELE (Servicio Internacional de Evaluación de la Lengua Española) is also an excellent choice, and is one of the newer exams available. We also offer great preparation courses for the SIELE. This exam must be renewed every two years and tests Spanish as a rich, varied language with different vocabulary and phrases throughout the world. This exam is especially helpful for getting into universities and landing prestigious jobs in the Spanish-speaking world.

If you are specifically interested in business, we recommend that you take the Chamber of Commerce Business Spanish Exam. This exam is also officially recognized and focuses on a wide range of business-related topics. Our preparation course is incredibly interesting; you are sure to learn all about finance, politics and tourism as it relates to the Spanish-speaking world, and beyond.

What type of certificate will I receive from don Quijote at the end of my course?

At the end of the course you will receive a certificate of accomplishment if you have attended at least 85% of your classes. This certificate indicates the course you took, duration, objectives, Spanish proficiency level, special subjects, additional courses and the number of hours completed. 

If you completed less than 85% of your classes your certificate will only show the actual number of classes you attended. 

If you are from the United States, talk with us at the beginning of your course. We can give you an evaluation that meets the American rating system (eg. A+, B-...), which is necessary for earning university credits.
 

Can I take private classes at don Quijote?    

Of course! In addition to group courses, don Quijote offers one-to-one private Spanish classes at all don Quijote schools, for all levels. You may also request customized language content to learn the vocabulary of a certain field such as literature, business, medical Spanish or any other subject.

The price is per hour, with packages available when you take five or more classes per week, and/or study in semi-private classes with a friend.

Our Premium courses allow you to easily combine a mini group course with one-to-one classes, priced in price packages. Combining a group course with private classes is a highly effective way to make maximum progress in your Spanish skills in a limited time.
 

Will I be able to transfer academic credits from don Quijote to my university?

If you are thinking about obtaining credits for your university, it is very important you tell us on your first day of class, since you will have to take specific tests for us to evaluate you according to your academic system.

What happens if there are no students with my same level?

This is very unlikely at don Quijote. One of our strengths is that, due to the large number of students we have all year round, we can always make groups not only for each level, but also for sub-levels, which guarantees that you will always be with the students of your same level and give you more oppotunities to practice.

Do I have to take an exam after each level?

This is not necessary since our teachers make continuous evaluations. However, if you are studying with us over a long period, we would like to give you an occasional exam so that you can clearly see your progress. This will encourage you to keep learning!
 

What is the maximum number of students per class?

For intensive and super-intensive courses, we guarantee that you will never have a group of more than 10 students at a don Quijote school. Typically, the classes are much smaller, but it varies depending on the destination, course and time of year.
 

Does don Quijote offer business courses?

Yes, we do! We offer Premium Executive Programs, Chamber of Commerce Business Spanish Exam Preparation Courses and Private One-on-One Classes.

Our Business Exam Prep Course is ideal for boosting your resume with an official certificate. You must have at least a B1 level to sign up for this course.

Private one-on-one classes can be arranged to focus on business, just let us know what you're interested in.

Our Premium Executive Programs are complete packages of intensive classes, networking lunches with professionals, private classes and private online classes. 

Do you offer special prices for groups?

Yes, We offer special pricing for groups of 6 or more. We love working with travel agents and teachers to coordinate group trips as well! Contact us at groups@donquijote.org for more information.

why-donquijote

Are bed sheets and towels included?

At all of our accommodations we include fresh bed linen, but you will have to bring your own towels.

Is there Wi-Fi?

At the shared apartments and student residences there is always Wi-Fi for you to use. At the homes of our host families it depends on the availability, however, these days most homes have a good Wi-Fi connection.

How far from the language school are the accommodations?

Whether you choose our student residence or shared apartment, you will be within 10-15 minutes of your don Quijote school. If you choose to stay with a host family the maximum distance is 30 minutes, on foot or by public transportation.
 

What is included in half board? 

Half board includes two meals per day: breakfast and dinner.

At what time is check-in and check-out?

Check-in is at 12 p.m. (2 p.m. in Malaga) on the Sunday before your first day of class (Monday). Check-out is at 12 p.m. (10 a.m. in Malaga) on the Saturday after your last day of class (usually Friday).

What if I want to change my accommodations or course because I don’t feel comfortable?

If you are not happy with your accommodations or course, we can always change them for you. We just need a justifiable reason. You can contact your academic or accommodations coordinator to address any issue during your stay.

I don’t know if I should choose to stay at a shared apartment or at the student residence! Can you help me?

Both are great options and can add many qualities to your experience! Here are a few things to keep in mind.

Shared apartments offer independence and flexibility. You will be sharing common spaces with roommates including the living room, kitchen, and bathroom. You'll have a common space to enjoy chatting with friends or studying. You can look forward to going grocery shopping (an excuse to practice Spanish!), because you will be preparing your own meals and washing your own clothes. Of course, you will not have to worry about bedding, electricity or water. Everything is included. However, you will be responsible for cleaning the apartment along with your roommates.

Our student residences also offer independence and flexibility, but provide some cleaning and cooking services to save you time to focus on your studies. Students come from all over the world, and our residences vary in size from a capacity of 15 to 150 students. Don’t like to cook? No problem! We offer breakfast, lunch and dinner. We also give you the option to have an en suite private or shared bathroom at most locations. All residences are within a convenient distance from our schools, right in the heart of the city. The price is a little higher than a shared apartment, however, there are more services available to you!

With a host family, will I have to follow a schedule?

You will not be put on a schedule and can come and go as you please. However, we ask that you are considerate of the family and are especially careful not to disturb them at night.
 

What accommodation options does don Quijote offer in Spain?

There are three accommodation options available in Spain:
- Host family 
- Shared apartments
- Student residence

If I choose half board, can I have lunch instead of dinner? 

Half board is breakfast and dinner. We are unable to change it, unless you prefer to have full board, in which case you would be able to join us for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
 

I have a special diet, I am vegetarian, I am lactose intolerant, etc. Can I still live with a host family?

Yes! We can accommodate you, just let us know exactly what you need when you make your reservation.
 

How many students live with the same host family?

Some host families only take in one student, while others will take in two or three. We try not to have students from the same country live together so they have more opportunities to practice Spanish.
 

What is included in the price of a week in a student residence?

Students have the choice of an individual or double room and either half or full board. Bed linen and blankets are included. A common room with TV in each residence, central heating, Wi-Fi and cleaning of the common areas are included in the price. Students will be able to wash their clothes at or close to the residence. The cleaning of the bedroom is not included.

What is included in the price of a week in a shared apartment?

You can choose either an individual or double room. Bed linen and blankets are included. Water, gas and electricity are also included. No meals are offered, but all apartments have a well-equipped kitchen, as well as a TV, common room and central heating. Students can wash and iron their clothes in the apartment. The cleaning of the bedroom is not included in the price, but the cleaning of the common area is included. Most properties have Wi-Fi.

Can I stay in don Quijote accommodations after the end of my course?

If we have availability we can offer you three extra nights before and after your program.

FAQ: 15 Frequently asked questions about student accommodations

Submitted by admin on Fri, 02/17/2017 - 08:11
Frequently Asked Questions about our student accommodations in Spain and Latin America. Everything you need to know about our residences, apartments and more. FAQ All about accommodations 15 Frequently Asked Questions <b>Student Accommodations</b>

Do you have any questions related to accommodations during your stay at one of our don Quijote schools? Here is a list of some of the most common questions and our responses.

Are bed sheets and towels included?

At all of our accommodations we include fresh bed linen, but you will have to bring your own towels.

Is there Wi-Fi?

At the shared apartments and student residences there is always Wi-Fi for you to use. At the homes of our host families it depends on the availability, however, these days most homes have a good Wi-Fi connection.

How far from the language school are the accommodations?

Whether you choose our student residence or shared apartment, you will be within 10-15 minutes of your don Quijote school. If you choose to stay with a host family the maximum distance is 30 minutes, on foot or by public transportation.
 

What is included in half board? 

Half board includes two meals per day: breakfast and dinner.

At what time is check-in and check-out?

Check-in is at 12 p.m. (2 p.m. in Malaga) on the Sunday before your first day of class (Monday). Check-out is at 12 p.m. (10 a.m. in Malaga) on the Saturday after your last day of class (usually Friday).

What if I want to change my accommodations or course because I don’t feel comfortable?

If you are not happy with your accommodations or course, we can always change them for you. We just need a justifiable reason. You can contact your academic or accommodations coordinator to address any issue during your stay.

I don’t know if I should choose to stay at a shared apartment or at the student residence! Can you help me?

Both are great options and can add many qualities to your experience! Here are a few things to keep in mind.

Shared apartments offer independence and flexibility. You will be sharing common spaces with roommates including the living room, kitchen, and bathroom. You'll have a common space to enjoy chatting with friends or studying. You can look forward to going grocery shopping (an excuse to practice Spanish!), because you will be preparing your own meals and washing your own clothes. Of course, you will not have to worry about bedding, electricity or water. Everything is included. However, you will be responsible for cleaning the apartment along with your roommates.

Our student residences also offer independence and flexibility, but provide some cleaning and cooking services to save you time to focus on your studies. Students come from all over the world, and our residences vary in size from a capacity of 15 to 150 students. Don’t like to cook? No problem! We offer breakfast, lunch and dinner. We also give you the option to have an en suite private or shared bathroom at most locations. All residences are within a convenient distance from our schools, right in the heart of the city. The price is a little higher than a shared apartment, however, there are more services available to you!

With a host family, will I have to follow a schedule?

You will not be put on a schedule and can come and go as you please. However, we ask that you are considerate of the family and are especially careful not to disturb them at night.
 

What accommodation options does don Quijote offer in Spain?

There are three accommodation options available in Spain:
- Host family 
- Shared apartments
- Student residence

If I choose half board, can I have lunch instead of dinner? 

Half board is breakfast and dinner. We are unable to change it, unless you prefer to have full board, in which case you would be able to join us for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
 

I have a special diet, I am vegetarian, I am lactose intolerant, etc. Can I still live with a host family?

Yes! We can accommodate you, just let us know exactly what you need when you make your reservation.
 

How many students live with the same host family?

Some host families only take in one student, while others will take in two or three. We try not to have students from the same country live together so they have more opportunities to practice Spanish.
 

What is included in the price of a week in a student residence?

Students have the choice of an individual or double room and either half or full board. Bed linen and blankets are included. A common room with TV in each residence, central heating, Wi-Fi and cleaning of the common areas are included in the price. Students will be able to wash their clothes at or close to the residence. The cleaning of the bedroom is not included.

What is included in the price of a week in a shared apartment?

You can choose either an individual or double room. Bed linen and blankets are included. Water, gas and electricity are also included. No meals are offered, but all apartments have a well-equipped kitchen, as well as a TV, common room and central heating. Students can wash and iron their clothes in the apartment. The cleaning of the bedroom is not included in the price, but the cleaning of the common area is included. Most properties have Wi-Fi.

Can I stay in don Quijote accommodations after the end of my course?

If we have availability we can offer you three extra nights before and after your program.

why-donquijote

Student services and FAQ's

Submitted by admin on Thu, 02/16/2017 - 14:46
Check out our Frequently Asked Questions to learn more about the enrollment process, our courses, visas, insurance, schools, transfer, accomodation and more. Student services FAQ <b>Frequently Asked Questions</b> Frequently Asked Questions

Choosing a program to learn Spanish and study abroad can be a little daunting at first, which is why we put together our most frequently asked questions from prospective and current students. Browse at your leisure and discover why studying with don Quijote will be your best decision yet! 

ACCOMMODATIONS

SCHOLARSHIPS

COURSES

INSURANCE

SCHOOLS

SHUTTLE SERVICE

VISAS

VOLUNTEERING

HOLIDAYS

ENROLLMENT

ONLINE CLASSES

why-donquijote

Student life in don Quijote schools - Students quotes

Submitted by admin on Thu, 02/16/2017 - 14:42
Take a look at the day in the life of our don Quijote students and get inspired to take the leap into an authentic Spanish immersion. Student life in our Schools This is <b>Student Life</b>

Learning Spanish with don Quijote isn’t just about studying a language – it’s about immersing yourself in a new culture; it’s living both within a new environment and outside your comfort zone, developing new skills and gaining new insights. Our Spanish language programs will take you on an unforgettable journey of self-discovery: find out who you are, what you’re passionate about, and exactly how much you’re capable of.

Take a look at a day in the life of our don Quijote students and get inspired to take the leap into authentic Spanish immersion.  

don Quijote Madrid

Meet our student Deepa

don Quijote Madrid

Meet our student Nora

don Quijote Salamanca

Meet our student Maaike

don Quijote Barcelona

Meet our student Bernd

don Quijote Salamanca

Meet our student Kaella

don Quijote Valencia

Meet our student Kari

don Quijote Seville

Meet our student Giorgio

don Quijote Salamanca

Meet our student Numi

don Quijote Granada

Meet our student Veronika

don Quijote Alicante

Meet our student Lars

don Quijote Salamanca

Meet our student Derek

don Quijote Malaga

Meet our student Kate

don Quijote Seville

Meet our student Andrew

don Quijote Madrid

Meet our student Ayumi

Have a look at these video testimonials from other studentsarrow-right-red
Dear Spain,

I observed you as a typical guiri for quite some time, ordering sangria in bars, eating paella for dinner, and dancing passionately every time I heard “La camisa negra.” Thanks to don Quijote, now I can say that I’ve become an authentic extranjera who has adapted and goes out to have la primera at midnight and uses phrases like hombre, lo tienes chupao, and taluego. Thanks to Pedro, I also know which words are best to avoid.

You have taught me many things. Thanks for everything and I hope to see you soon! Keep being the best teachers in the world!

¡Un beso y un abrazo fuerte a todos!

Katrin, age 21, don Quijote Salamanca (Intensive 30 - homestay)

I had a very positive experience at don Quijote with Consuelo Defez Gomez as my teacher. As a retired teacher in the U.S., I’ve had many years of working with educators of all levels of competency.

Consuelo was an excellent teacher in all ways. She was able to assess my level of Spanish quickly and create opportunities for me to continually improve, while always keeping me challenged. She spoke clearly, encouraged me to correct errors I made, and helped me understand new vocabulary without changing into English. We spent several days in the classroom, and then she suggested exploring Madrid together ......the cafes, museums, vistas, etc., which made my learning even more meaningful. My communication continued to improve, as did my appreciation of the beautiful Spanish culture.

Consuelo’s outgoing personality, kindness and apparent love of her profession, all contributed to my motivating experience. I truly hope others Spanish learners are able to experience Consuelo as their teacher in the future.

Dolores, age 60, don Quijote Madrid (Private One-to-One classes)

Arrived in Playa del Carmen yesterday! After spending 2 weeks in Guanajuato, it was hard to say goodbye to my teacher, classmates and host family… But I’m already loving Playa del Carmen. After meeting my new host family and dropping off my bags, my host brother took me on a tour of the town. Playa has an interesting energetic yet laid-back vibe – makes it a cool place to learn Spanish! Plus, the beach is stunning.  
 
Today I picked up my Intensive Spanish course right where I left off in Guanajuato. My new teacher is terrific and the group is nice and small, just 5 students. I can really feel my Spanish improving, but more importantly, I can feel myself gaining confidence. In the afternoon I went to my elective class – Business Spanish. The class is super interesting (and I think it will come in handy after graduation).

Now I´m getting ready for my first Salsa dance lesson, so excited! And I’ve already scheduled a scuba diving lesson for this weekend, I can’t wait! I don’t ever want to leave Mexico…

Suzy, age 20, don Quijote Guanajuato and Playa del Carmen (Intensive 25)

Just finished my second day of Spanish Teacher’s Training here in Salamanca. First of all, I can’t express how much I love Salamanca. The young vibe of the city juxtaposed with its ancient stone buildings, the Plaza Mayor, the Cathedral… it’s incredible. And of course, the Spanish teacher in me loves that I’m studying in one of the most famous university cities in Europe. 

This morning we’ve been in teaching methodology classes and workshops – really interesting material! I can’t wait to put these new skills and insights into practice back in my classroom. Now we’ve got a break and later this afternoon, the school is taking us on a tour of the city. 

My fellow classmates, Spanish teachers from all different countries and cultures, are terrific. And tomorrow I begin shadowing a don Quijote teacher, can’t wait. I feel great knowing that I’m getting quality professional training and working to be a better teacher for my students, but I’m also having an amazing cultural experience. Not to mention I can already feel my Spanish skills improving!

Mark, age 35, don Quijote Salamanca (Spanish Teachers' Training Lab)

It’s Friday and we’re wrapping up our first week in Tenerife; it’s been such an amazing experience so far. Since we’ve never studied Spanish before, we’re in the total beginners A1 level. Señorita García is so patient and sweet with us… it’s been a while since we’ve been in the classroom! We’ve got another 4 people in class with us, all around our same age and Spanish level, so that makes it easy and comfortable. 

After classes, we’ve been going out and exploring Tenerife. It’s so beautiful here! We’ve already visited Mount Teide and taken a scenic tour of Teide National Park. The school organizes all the activities for us… all we have to do is show up – no stress. There are also cultural lessons like cooking and dance, and tonight they’re taking us for a relaxing evening on the beach.

I honestly never thought learning Spanish could be like this, so fun and relaxing. I love all the personalized attention. I don’t know why I waited so long to try it…I suppose I always felt like I couldn’t do it, or didn’t have the time, or that the window of opportunity to learn Spanish closed after college. I really have to say this experience is making me reevaluate what I’m capable of and how I want to organize my upcoming retirement.
 

Marie, age 55, don Quijote Tenerife (Spanish for 50+)

In 2008 I spent a few weeks taking my first steps toward a better understanding of Spanish at don Quijote Valencia. It was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. After I graduated from university, I decided to do a master’s in translation in Cordoba, and today I’m working as a legal translator and expect to become a sworn translator soon. It all started with don Quijote, thanks a million.
P.S. When I go to Valencia I always go by Galileo Galilei for old times’ sake!

Petra, age 33, don Qujote Valencia (DELE Exam Preparation 20)

Excellent school, I've learned a lot about the culture and of course the language! I had signed up for private cooking classes and it was very special, I loved the food and the bond I created with my cooking teachers; Gloria y Sandra. Sandra was also my language teacher and she is the best!!!! Playa del Carmen was beautiful and lots to do, but most importantly I felt safe there. The excursions were awesome and we really got to experience the culture. I left with a heart full of joy and I would love to go back one day.
 

Nat, age 19, don Quijote Playa del Carmen (Gap Year Program)

I had the best experience ever with don Quijote in Playa del Carmen, Mexico! It’s been a year since I was there and I still think about it almost every day. The team at the Playa school is so incredibly kind and helpful — they helped me improve my Spanish immensely, they were always so full of great advice about the region and anything México related, and they’re super fun! The school itself is beautiful and it’s outdoors. The school tour guide Mauricio takes you on amazing trips around the beautiful Yucatan Peninsula. I met amazing people at the school who I’m still friends with and who I’ve traveled to visit again. I’ve also already gotten two friends to go study Spanish at don Quijote Playa del Carmen! I would 100% do this again. Gracias por todo, ¡espero volver!

Miruna, age 28, don Quijote Playa del Carmen (Intensive 25)

Amazing school! Extremely warm and helpful staff who try their best to make sure students are well taken care of, not only in the school but also in the city. Instructors are experienced, patient, effective, and friendly. don Quijote provides a very comfortable learning environment and is located in the center of the city. The school also organizes fun outings and language/ culture exchange activities to connect their students. I highly recommend don Quijote and Salamanca as a city to learn Spanish!
 

Fatima, age 40, don Quijote Salamanca (Super Intensive 30)

Katrin dolores dQ madrid Student Life 1 Student Life 2 Student Life 3 Petra Nat Miruna Fatima
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