Cid summer Study in Spain

Additional Rules for Candidates

1) Leave all ball caps at home. Only the "ugly American" proudly wears his/her "beautiful" baseball hat while abroad. Spaniards associate this garb with typical Americans or sunbathers.

2) Do not walk barefooted indoors. It is unacceptable in Spanish culture to walk around the home without socks or slippers. Be sure to wear socks on your feet at all times (except for staying at the beach). It is also unacceptable to be "bare backed" in public; unless you're on the beach, keep shirts on at all times despite the heat.

3) Facial hair is generally not in style among college age Spaniards. Male candidates should consider this before deciding to grow that summer goatee.

4) If you order a refreshment (Coke, beer, wine or water) in a bar or cafeteria in Madrid, be sure that a tapa is served free of charge. Occasionally, waiting staff will overlook including this complementary snack for Americans. If it is not served to you in Madrid, be sure to ask for it (if, of course, you want it).

5) Make sure you are accompanied by at least one classmate when collaborating in the night life in Spain. Pick-pocket victims are usually alone and disoriented late at night down some unknown and empty street.

6) If you already have Euros on hand while "out on the town," there is no need to carry your ATM card as well. Make your best effort to keep monetary instruments separated. For example, if you're meeting a friend for coffee, leave all your credit and ATM cards at your Spanish home; you will only need pesetas for this particular outing.

7) Always be conscious of your need to erase the stigma of the "ugly American" created by our ethnocentric countrymen that have previously visited Spain. Your sensitivity to all aspects of the Spanish culture will enhance your study abroad experience. Remember: you are the visitor in their country. Be respectful and understanding at all times. If you are not prepared to do this, you should consider withdrawing your candidacy in the program.

8) Absolutely no alcoholic beverages permitted on buses. No drinking alcohol during excursions.