Florida State University (FSU) International Programs

Valencia is an amazing city. I think it gets the snub when people think of Spain; but this city should be a can't miss. I studied abroad through FSU in summer 2010 (you know, when Spain won the World Cup - NBD) and it was the best decision I ever made.

The study center is right behind the Torres de Serranos, which is a big landmark in the city. Next is the canal which many people run, play soccer or walk into other parts of the city. Down the canal from the study center is the Ciudad de Las Artes y Las Ciencias (City of Arts & Sciences), where there is a breathtaking aquarium and top notch museum exhibits.

The staff at the study center are incredibly friendly and always willing to give recommendations on their favorite places in the city. Cati (who unfortunately isn't there any longer) took us to a club where she DJ'ed and coordinated many of the adventures that we went on as a group. These were great and provided us with cultural experiences that we never would have had otherwise. Alicia and Ignacio were also AHH-MAZING. They made sure all of our needs as students were met. We all are forever indebted to their dedication to the FSU Valencia program.

The city has a distinct dialect that is unique for other Spanish speakers from South America and the States. But don't let this deter you - the people are incredibly friendly, and as someone who knew little Spanish, I felt right at home once I got past the initial "OMG I'M IN SPAIN AND I DON'T SPEAK ANY SPANISH WTH AM I GONNA DO?!?!" Don't worry! Seriously, the Valencian people have you covered! As in all foreign countries, try your best. It shows the people that you're trying and they are more than likely to help.

Seriously, if you are on the fence about Valencia, let me go ahead and knock you over and tell you that this program is not a mistake. Go. Right now. GO! You won't regret it.

You will never experience anything like what you will with Florida State's study abroad program in Valencia. Seriously if you are even thinking about studying abroad you should look into this program. I studied here in Spring 2014 and wish I could've stayed longer. The program lead is an incredible person that will go out of his way to help you and make sure you feel comfortable. You're situated right in the city center, so you get to see everything that goes on. Valencia is Spain's 3rd largest city, but it is very "homey" and does not have the big city vibe - except in the spring when the outstanding festival "Fallas" happens, rated #2 best festival in the world. It will blow your mind (and your ear drums). I encourage you to look it up. The locals are so passionate about Valencia. Trust me, you will adopt this passion as well.
They take you on trips to awesome places too.
This will be the most spectacular experience of your life - I know this because it was mine.

I loved my experience with the London Theatre program from FSU. The location of the study center is so central that you really feel like you are living in London and getting to explore so many different areas of the city so easily.

The university campus on which we stayed was beautiful and well kept. Downtown Istanbul was breathtaking. The mixture of cultures and backgrounds made my time in Turkey incredibly fun and enriching. The three weekend trips which were included allowed for one to truly grasp the Turkish culture and lifestyle. The professors and guides were both informative and enjoyable to be around. My only complaint with this trip is the fact that it had to end!

This was truly one of the best things I have ever done. The program was absolutely phenomenal, we got to travel all over the country and see so much. The coordinators made sure we tried local dishes and had a genuine experiences everywhere we went. I wish I could go back and do it all over again without changing a single thing.