CIEE High School Study Abroad in Mexico

Participating in CIEE HS Abroad was my first time ever out of the country, on an airplane, and traveling alone. I put 100% of my trust into a program had I just learned about and I have no regrets or complaints. Everything about the program from applying, to the online course, the unexpected yet expected emails, and to finally the trip itself plus all of the preparation leading up to it. It will always be a trip I will always vividly remember because of the staff, the program itself, and the unforgettable eyeopening and learning experience it gave me. I'll always reminisce the short three weeks and will always be grateful for the experience!

When I first signed up for this program, I was nervous about it because I had never traveled out of the country by myself, and I had never been away from home for a month. Taking the leap to fly to Mexico with a group of other teens from around the states was the best choice that I have ever made, and I have no regrets. I grew so close to the other students that traveled with me, and I advanced my Spanish more than I could have in any class in the states. My host family took me in like I was part of their own, and I even grew close with my friend's host family. After doing this program I feel like I have a wider, clearer view of the world as a whole, and I am inspired to try more new things and travel at every chance that I get. The main tip that I could give to anyone considering doing this program is: take the leap, you will not regret it.

In every aspect, my life was enriched due to this program and trip. I gained a better understanding of a language that is in my DNA, met life-long friends, and experienced true independence and responsibility. The classes were beneficial, from in classroom to real world experience, and the excursions were amazing. A program I would, and do recommend to my fellow classmates. The trips couldn't have been any longer because each excursion was so fun. I also appreciated the first day aid and awareness over potential homesickness to come in the trip. They ensured that we knew what to do in instances such as that.

My experience traveling to Guanajuato, Mexico with CIEE was truly extraordinary- so much so that I convinced many of my friends to travel with CIEE and they all had incredible experiences as well. I still regularly speak with my host family, who are some of the most amazing people I have met in my life. Last summer, 2 years after my month in Guanajuato, one of my friends I met there came and stayed at my house for week (just to give you an understanding of the friendships made on the trip). I always felt completely safe, the teachers, program leaders, and families are inexplicably kind and welcoming and make a seemingly scary experience so worthwhile. At the age of 16 I was able to say I’d traveled to the ancient pyramids of Teotihuacan, walked around the home of Frida Kahlo, and practiced my Spanish with average citizens on the streets of beautiful Guanajuato. I cannot emphasize enough how incredible this experience was, both in improving my Spanish and my character overall. I strongly, strongly recommend this program to everyone!