CIEE

I had the privilege of attending CIEE's Sydney block at its premiere. It was a new location for the well-established program- with new staff, new teachers, new *everything*. But even still I can not speak highly enough about my experience. The classes are informative- and the assignments inspire true research and learning which gives one a more global perspective (I took the course on Development, Poverty, and Human Rights with Keshab). But aside from that the staff consistently facilitates extracurricular activities which help one take full advantage of a trip to Sydney, Australia! Various local excursions have included the Fish Market, the Art Museum, and the Zoo, among countless others! I highly recommend spending at least six weeks abroad in Sydney with CIEE. Not only will you earn academic credits, but you will gain an experience unique to anything else available by any other study abroad program! Personally, I'd always wanted to study in Sydney (following my Dad's footsteps) but there were so many other places I wanted to study in as well! CIEE proved to be the perfect program for me, as it allowed me to experience multiple places during one semester. If you're from the US (like me!) I cannot recommend this program enough! And if you have any questions please email me at abauer@umass.edu! I'm happy to answer any questions!

While I stand by the notion that there is really no way to prepare for this program, that leap of faith is very much caught by the CIEE staff in Hyderabad. They are very much there to help you through every step of the way with kindness and expertise. If you are looking for a program filled with many unexpected challenges, CIEE Hyderabad staff are there to make sure you can have an adventure in and out of the classroom. Especially because life in South Asia follows a different pace and initially ambiguous social rules, having experienced advisors really makes this program logistically manageable and emotionally rich.

I have absolutely nothing but positive memories with CIEE Barcelona. I did the homestay option and studied at the Facultat de Filología and loved both! The program naturally forces you out of your comfort zone and rewards you with a wealth of rich knowledge, fond memories, and friends of a lifetime. At times, the program was difficult, but CIEE Barcelona provides undivided, personal support for challenges in-and-out of the classroom. Alberto and the rest of the program staff are transparent with their students from day one, and they push you to dive into Spanish culture.

I would highly recommend this program to anybody looking to contextualize their understanding of the Spanish language and take fantastic classes at the Universitat de Barcelona. The memories I share with my program friends are ones I will never forget. Take advantage of everything Barcelona, Spain, and Europe has to offer! Alberto and the staff are just the best--I wish I could return to CIEE Barcelona!

Ciee Yucatan is based in Merida which is an incredible city. There are cultural events in the centro every weekend and during the week there are so many museums and things to see in the city. I constantly felt like I had something to do. I also felt completely safe in the city and would love to go back. It is in close proximity to many Mayan Ruins and there is an awesome beach named Progreso forty minutes from the city. I loved my experience and am so thankful to ciee for such a great experience. The staff was incredible at Yucatan and my host family was amazing. I can’t wait to go back!

CIEE ALA is the best program you can choose if you want to immerse yourself in Spanish language and culture. It is a unique study abroad program because it allows its participants to take classes at the University of Barcelona in Spanish, which is the best way to get to know other Spanish students and dramatically improve your language skills. The program attracts students who are eager to get out of their comfort zone and learn lots. The small size means that everyone becomes really close, and the leaders of the program are always there for one-on-one help. Would definitely recommend this program to anyone who wants to challenge themselves and have a fulfilling experience studying abroad.