CIEE

Program Reviews

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Nia
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Great experience abroad!

I had a great experience abroad, the housing was wonderful and close to transportation. There were many activities and trips to nearby cities involved throughout the program especially during Fashion week. I liked the emails sent to us every week with activities we could sign up for and notifications of anything going on it definitely helped me know what was going on. It was easy to meet other students as we were all together upon arrival and in the same housing. The ciee staff were always really sweet and helpful I definitely enjoyed my time and wish I stayed longer!

If you did this all over again, what's one thing you would change?
I would stay longer and enjoyed the city longer rather than always traveling elsewhere
Pros
  • Housing
  • Activities
  • Staff
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Jennifer
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Study Abroad Roma!

Going into the program I was a little nervous since I was going alone. When I arrived in Rome I was immeadiatly greeted by the friendly staff at CIEE in Rome. They situated me in a Homestay with a wonderful family and a another student as a roomate. I had such a great time immersing myself in the culture, learning a new language, and even debunking stereotypes of other cultures (like not being allowed to have a cappuccino past 11 in Italy). Staying in my homestay was truly amazing, trying all their homecooked meals and staying with a family made me not as homesick. The events organized by CIEE were my favorite and the classes here were all so interesting due to the friendly and fun professors. I went on many trips around Italy and had lots of free time to be able to do so. Most of the professors understood that we are abroad students and they wanted us to focus on exploring their culture here then doing busy work all the time. I met so many friends that I hope we can stay connected and all meet together soon. Studying abroad with CIEE was one of the best choices I have ever made and I reccomend everyone once in there life to do it. You not only learn about the culture and language but even becoming more mature and knowing how to be on your own.

What was your funniest moment?
While abroad, my friends from the program and I ran around for hours after realizing we forgot our passports to check into a hotel. After 10 hours we finally found a place that would take our photo copys. We ended up having the best trip and had the most unforgettable gelato and food. Times like this always bring people closer and I loved to be able to spend it with them!
Pros
  • Stepping out of your comfort zone
  • Being more confident in doing things by yourself
  • Learning a new culture
Cons
  • Homesick
  • Missing friends and family
  • Nothing else!
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Erin
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

My Semester in Sevilla

I always knew I wanted to study abroad in Spain. When I came across CIEE’s website and saw they offered Sevilla, I did quick research of it and immediately knew it’s where I wanted to be in Spain. As a Spanish major, I wanted to be able to speak Spanish everywhere I went, and I have accomplished just that. My professors encourage everyone to speak it, no matter how many mistakes are made. Not only has my language proficiency improved, but I learned so much about culture, literature, and even food in Spain. The CIEE staff have made this experience so wonderful and I am so grateful!

What was the most nerve-racking moment and how did you overcome it?
Honestly the most nerve-racking moment for me was boarding my plane from New York to Spain. It’s hard knowing you’re going somewhere completely new and different, not knowing anyone. However, it made me feel better to know that I wasn’t the only one in this position. I have truly had the experience of a lifetime living in a different country and meeting so many amazing people. Change is scary, but it’s worth it to see how much you grow as a person because of it.
Pros
  • Learning another culture
  • Traveling
  • Speaking a different language
Cons
  • Homesickness
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Max
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Best Semester of My Life

Studying abroad in Madrid for a semester was one of the most enriching and transformative experiences of my life. From the moment I landed in Madrid, I was immersed in a vibrant culture that was very welcoming. The city itself is a stunning blend of historical charm and modern energy, with something new to discover around every corner. I enjoyed exploring Madrid's magnificent architecture and lively tapas bars.

Academically, the experience exceeded all expectations. Learning in an international environment broadened my perspective, and I gained a deeper understanding of global business, culture, and communication. My professors were passionate and engaging.

But what made the semester truly unforgettable were the people and the experiences beyond the classroom. I formed lasting friendships with fellow students from around the United States, and together we explored not just Madrid, but the diverse regions of Spain and beyond. Being able to travel to other parts of Spain and Europe on the weekends is truly a privilege that I don't take for granted. CIEE offers students the flexibility to take on these experiences independently.

Living in Madrid taught me independence, resilience, and the value of embracing new perspectives. I will return home with improved Spanish skills, a larger network of friends, and memories that I will carry with me forever. If you’re even considering studying abroad in Madrid with CIEE—do it. It will change your life in the best possible way.

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Alyssa
4/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Abroad in Rome

I really enjoyed the history I was able to experience here especially during the jubilee and new election of the pope. Being able to experience so many different cultures and traveling allowed me to see more than I ever expected and rome was a great hub for this. The public transportation has so many options and is generally very good. There are so many places to visit within Italy itself so being able to do some day trips through CIEE was a really great way to see places I never would have on my own.

What was the most nerve-racking moment and how did you overcome it?
Going places where I had never been before like restaurants and stores where I wasn’t sure if I was able to communicate with the clerk or certain ways to buy groceries. But mistakes are going to happen so just getting out and experiencing as much as I could.
Pros
  • Meet new people
  • Experience different culture
  • Gain independence
Cons
  • Homesick
  • Jet lag
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Rosie
4/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Great program overall

Very supportive staff in the center, a wide range of course choices, especially like the excursions and tons of activities offered for free. Registration with courses directly from the Universidad is more difficult due to the inconsistency of communication, and other courses work well. CIEE courses are of pretty good quality. Met and made friends with other students from the U.S., Erasmus students, and local Spanish students. Great opportunities that time availability to enjoy the city and travel around the country or Europe.

What was your funniest moment?
Traveling around Europe (EU)!
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Emma
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

A beautiful place for people who want to do it all

Sevilla is a beautiful city with caring people. There are many opportunities to travel, intern, volunteer at local schools, and research. While there is no beach off the city, there are many ways to get to the water.

The program itself is reputable, and the staff really, really care about the students. They want to see students succeed in their class work and in their extracurriculars. The program highly encourages student involvement and feedback.

The social scene in Sevilla is very cool. People are outside, eating and drinking, dancing, and all around having fun.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
Do all of the things and travel as much as you possibly can.
Pros
  • Academic opportunity
  • Program excursions
  • Build your resume
Cons
  • Not very racially diverse
  • Mediocre communication
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Anabel
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

A perfect mix

My experience here in Alicante was unique because I got to experience what the big cities in Spain like Madrid and Barcelona have to offer because Alicante has a city as well but I also got to experience living in a costal town. I loved the size of Alicante because it was easy to navigate but still felt like I could find new places to explore every day. There are also mountains in Alicante allowing for super cool hikes with great views. It was also very easy to travel from via plane or train. I was able to participate in so many fun activities provided by CIEE such as a flamenco class, paella cooking class, beach days, and many more.

What was your funniest moment?
My funniest moment was attending a CIEE organized event where we went rock climbing. This event was particularly funny because it was very difficult for myself and my friend so we had a grand time laughing and attempting to rock climb.
Pros
  • Costal city
  • Good food
  • Fun nightlife
Cons
  • Less class options
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Megan
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Incredible Experience

Studying abroad in Alicante with CIEE was an incredible experience! The program was very supportive in all aspects, and they put together a ton of fun activities to get our group together, experiencing what the city has to offer. We got to experience a range of different activities, from bike rides to cooking classes, and also went on some trips to nearby cities. Alicante is a great home base because it has a good location, the beach is beautiful, and the city has a lot to offer without being too large or overwhelming. It is also a great place to practice speaking Spanish. I really recommend this program!

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
Try everything that you possibly can! You don't want to return home regretting that you missed out on something.
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Amelia
4/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Great Experience

Studying abroad in Florence with CIEE was such a great experience. I lived right by the Duomo, which felt surreal when I got to walk past it everyday. One of my favorite classes was my Renaissance art class. We got to visit all the major museums and learn about the works while standing in front of them, which made everything real beyond a textbook. It was a class I always looked forward to! The program was a balance of organized and helpful without being overly structured. There were planned trips and activities, but also plenty of time to explore the city on your own. Florence started to feel like home faster than I expected. I met some great people, found my go-to cafes, and got to know my way around the city. I definitely recommend this program if you're looking for an experience that’s immersive without feeling overwhelming.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
Travel with friends you know you'll be able to connect with again back home! The girls I travelled with are from my hometown, but we really got to know each other on another level traveling around Europe and studying together here in Florence!
Pros
  • The convenient size of the city and walkability of it.
  • The food!!
  • The staff is easy to talk to and is there for you about anything.
Cons
  • The city can get overstimulating and busy.
  • The uneven sidewalks require good shoes and attentive walking.
  • No drying machine available.