CIEE

Program Reviews

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Claudia
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Ideal study abroad program!

I had a great time studying abroad in Amsterdam with CIEE. The staff was extremely friendly, supportive and helpful getting all the students settled in Amsterdam at the beginning of the semester. Throughout the semester, they planned lots of fun outings for us in Amsterdam and other cities in the Netherlands. They were always very responsive via email or GroupMe about various academic, social, and cultural questions that students may have. Overall, the supportiveness of the staff made this program run smoothly and it was very appreciated.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
Take advantage of the program's excursions! It's a great way to get to know your host city and other cities nearby, and bond with others in your program!
Pros
  • Fun, informative trips
  • Supportive staff
  • Great academics
Cons
  • Pre-departure planning wasn't very organized
  • No public transportation vouchers
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Raegan
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

London J-Term: Britain's NHS

Spending J-term in London was an incredibly enriching experience! If you're looking for a study abroad program that won't cause you to miss any time on your home campus and may be cheaper than a semester program, the three week term in London is for you. My confidence increased greatly in navigating foreign cities, understanding different languages (there are over 300 in London alone!), and budgeting wisely. Most importantly, I learned how I like to travel best and what is most vital to me when exploring new locations. Studying abroad teaches you so much about yourself and increases the competitiveness of your grad school and job applications!

What was your funniest moment?
My funniest moment was doing karaoke with my new friends at the local pub two blocks from our flat!
Pros
  • Celebrating my birthday abroad!
  • Becoming a regular at my local pub.
  • Living in the same building as all my classmates.
Cons
  • If you want to visit attractions and sights outside of CIEE-sponsored activities, you need to budget far more than the program cost.
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Pratyay
4/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Once in a lifetime opportunity

Studying with CIEE Madrid was like hitting the jackpot for my Spanish adventure! From the get-go, the program coordinators had our backs – they helped us blend into Madrid life, spilled the beans on the best local spots, and made us feel right at home.

The classes were a cool mix of learning in class and having excursions related to the class. For example; in my mass media class we went to a firm that revolutionised digital media in Spain. We also had the opportunity to travel within Spain which helped us learn. about the Spainsh history and how their culture developed throughout the years. CIEE Madrid made sure we didn't just study abroad; we lived it.

What was the most surprising thing you saw or did?
Having already some friends in Madrid I did not think that I would become so close to some of my friends I made in CIEE. Another thing that surprised me was how supportive the professors were: my professors went out of their way to help me outside the classes.
Pros
  • A lot to travel
  • New friend Circle
  • Explore different cultures and how people live on another side of the world
Cons
  • Dorms are far from institute
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Amelia
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Semester in Sevilla

I had a really fun time in Sevilla and I recommend it to everybody. I wanted a Spanish speaking program where I could immerse myself into the culture and Sevilla gave me everything I was looking for. The city size was perfect for me - not too big, but still big enough to have plenty of things to do, restaurants to try, historical sights to visit, and a nightlife scene. CIEE was also super accommodating and helped provide excursions and activities to get to know the city better. Also, Sevilla is very walkable and it's so beautiful to see everyday.

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Dylann
4/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Why you should study in Rome, Italy

This experience has been unlike any other. I had so many emotions coming into it... nervous, excited, not sure what to expect. After being here for 4 months I've realized just how special it was to be able to live in Italy and be apart of the culture here. I've been living in an apartment with 6 other girls from all areas of the U.S. and even though we were strangers 4 months ago I couldn't be closer with them now and I know I'll have them as friends forever. Although it has been hard living away from home, it has been so amazing to have the opportunity to travel to all parts of Italy as well as countries like Germany, France, and Spain over the weekends. Looking back on the experience I have grown so much mentally and socially and I feel that I am much more knowledgable in the global realm. Studying in a new country has it's ups and downs of course, such as not having as many foods or pharmaceuticals we are used to in the U.S. or having to learn how to use public transportation, which is sometimes super easy and sometimes missing your bus to the airport. However, the good definitely trumps the bad and I wouldn't give up studying in this beautiful city for anything. I had so many classes that were on site and I was able to explore tons of museums, gardens, and villas that were included with my tuition. If you are contemplating coming to Rome, I would urge you to try it because it is a lively area with super accessible travel and you will meet like minded people that you can make long lasting connections with!

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
I would advise all future travelers to step outside your comfort zone. Don't leave any room for regret when you're abroad and make sure you do anything and everything that sounds interesting. Meet new people, travel to that new place, try that food even if it looks questionable! This is a time to grow and find out more about yourself and the best way to do that is to put yourself out there, even if it may be scary.
Pros
  • Meeting forever friends
  • Exploring new places
  • Growing as a person
Cons
  • Far from home
  • May not feel as academically challenged
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Michael
4/5
Yes, I recommend this program

studying abroad

Studying abroad in Barcelona was an amazing experience. Living amidst the vibrancy of the city allowed me to immerse myself in a culture distinct from my own. Barcelona's unique blend of history and contemporary energy provided a perfect backdrop for academic and personal growth. Exploring iconic landmarks like Sagrada Família and Park Güell became a routine, weaving lessons beyond textbooks.

The city's rhythm, from flamenco sounds to lively plazas, added a dynamic element to daily life. The warmth of the locals and the sensory delights of markets like La Boqueria enriched my cultural understanding. Barcelona's strategic location in Europe also facilitated weekend travels to neighboring countries, complementing my formal education.

The Mediterranean climate enhanced the experience, creating opportunities for outdoor activities and moments of relaxation on picturesque beaches. Barcelona, with its charm and welcoming community, taught me valuable lessons about life, culture, and the beauty of exploration. In conclusion, my time in Barcelona was a holistic journey that went beyond academics, leaving an indelible mark on my heart and mind.

What was your funniest moment?
Living with my friends allowed me to share a good laugh or two every day
Pros
  • Easy to travel city
  • Great metro
  • Vibrant city
Cons
  • Lots of tourists
  • Expensive(if you eat like an American rather than a local)
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Emma
4/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Amsterdam Abroad

My experience studying abroad in Amsterdam was amazing. This is one of the most beautiful cities. The architecture is so unique and has so much history. Amsterdam has something for everyone. There are many museums, green spaces, yummy food, and good music. You will never run out of things to do. The rest of The Netherlands is also great and very easily accessible through their intercity trains. Schipol airport is also very well connected so you can easily get around and travel to other countries. I also felt very safe in Amsterdam and was comfortable walking around everywhere by myself.

What was the most surprising thing you saw or did?
Amsterdam has many different policies when it comes to health and safety, compared to the US. With one of my classes we where able to visit a drug consumption room, a place where addicts can go and consume safely. We where also able to visit the PIC and speak with a sex worker which was very eye opening.
Pros
  • Great public transport
  • Beautiful architecture
  • very safe
Cons
  • weather
  • price of some food
  • housing distance from center of city
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Carlyton
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

CIEE Paris 2023

This was a unique experience that allowed students to learn in and outside the classroom. With great staff and a beautiful city this program was perfect. I stayed here for 18 weeks and was able to travel around much of Europe with ease and comfort because of the many CIEE locations who help students from other campuses as well. The classes were fun and informative and deepened my understanding of French and European history and culture. The many trips and activity planned by the staff are a great way to immerse oneself in the local culture.

If you did this all over again, what's one thing you would change?
I would take the time to experience more of the city sooner
Pros
  • Nice staff
  • Many cultural experiences
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Halle
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Learning Korean Language

I wanted to come to Korea solely to learn Korean. I am Korean-American and was never formally taught Korean as a child. The Korean Language Institution at Yonsei held amazing classes and improved my Korean immensely. If it wasn't for CIEE's wide network and accessibility at so many schools nationwide, I would never have found out about this opportunity. They also provided me with seamless off-campus housing and always made sure we knew they were there to help at anytime.
Seoul is such a unique city, with an infinite number of restaurants to try on every block AND so many beautiful hikes within an hour away to get away from the bustling city.

What was your funniest moment?
My funniest moment was when a server at a restaurant gave my friend a fork because she was struggling with her chopsticks. My friend didn't ask for a fork, but the server saw her struggling and genuinely wanted to help her out. My friend was a little offended that the server thought she needed that much help, but upon reflection appreciated his generosity. It was so funny for the rest of us at the table!!
Pros
  • Cafe and eating-out culture
  • Low living cost
  • City and mountain life, so many hikes!
Cons
  • Late ARC registration delayed travelling to other countries
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Aria
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Studying abroad in Berlin

I loved studying abroad in Berlin. While I would not say it's a place I would visit for a vacation, it is a place I would love to live in. The city has an incredibly welcoming and open-minded atmosphere. It is an area where I felt incredibly safe and comfortable incorporating myself into the culture. The program did a great job of offering excursions and day/overnight trips to other areas. This opportunity and experience has been unforgettable and something I would recommend to someone looking to study abroad without a second thought.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
Be a "yes man"! I made sure to take advantage of the opportunities that arose and was able to meet so many cool people, eat new foods and experience new cultures. It was a joy to be able to look at things with an open mind and excitement.
Pros
  • Travel
  • Meeting new people
  • Experiencing a different culture without much culture shock (compared to the US)
Cons
  • The strict school attendance policy