<p>One indicator of a good study abroad program, i.e., a program from which a student will truly benefit not only academically but also culturally, etc., is the level of language proficiency required (for countries where English is not the primary language). If a high proficiency is required, odds are that the students will be in classes with local students. D spent a semester in Santiago, Chile, and lived with a host family whose English was minimal at best. She was included in family events and attended classes, taught in Spanish, at two different universities. Talk about total immersion! Getting to meet all the study abroad students involved in the program (administered by the Council on International Educational Exchange - CIEE) contributed to it as well. The program sponsored some trips including one to the top of a glacier. It was a great experience that will stay with her for the rest of her life.</p>