CIEE

Program Reviews

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Jack
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

CIEE Provided a Great Semester

CIEE offers lots of immersive experiences throughout the semester while also running the program in a very organized way. There are program-funded weekend/day trips along with multiple activities students can sign up for every week to learn more about the culture. There are a wide variety of classes as well that are all taught by very qualified and interesting professors. The housing was clean, modern, and spacious. Prague is also a great city to study abroad with it being so cheap, centrally located, full of history, and fun.

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Alexa
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

You should totally Czech out Prague!

CIEE Prague was a great experience! Having previously spent a semester studying abroad in Barcelona, I can definitely say that Prague may attract less people off the bat than sunny Spain but I would not write off central Europe! Especially if you're going in the fall when it's much warmer. CIEE did a great job helping us adjust to our new life abroad with orientation, neighborhood tours, and plenty of activities to meet new people. The included overnight excursions came as such a surprise. I couldn't believe that they took care of everything in such a way where we could still be independent while being taken care of.

What was the most unfamiliar thing you ate?
I'd never eaten central European food before coming here, not even schnitzel which is among the most common dishes. In my Czech Food and Culture class, we were taken to a restaurant where I got Svíčková which is a meat tenderloin served with whipped cream. I haven't been super motivated to seek it out again but it was tasty.
Pros
  • Included overnight excursions
  • Cost of program
Cons
  • Lack of single room housing
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Tami
4/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Best City to Live In

CIEE Barcelona offered a wonderful study abroad program in Barcelona. The courses offered were related to academic work at my university, but students were never too busy with school work to go out and explore Barcelona's restaurant, cultural, and nightlife scenes. CIEE offered coordinated day trips and weekly activities for no additional cost that were also very enjoyable and a great way to meet more students on the program. I would recommend this program to students who are looking for an adventurous semester in Barcelona.

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Giorgia
4/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Study Abroad In Barcelona

The best part of the experience was the ability to travel easily to countries all around Europe. Barcelona was usually a 2 hour flight from most countries and about 4 hours from countries that are further North or East. The program itself was great as well. The campus was located in the center of the city center and getting around wherever you want was very easy. Classes and teachers made it easy to travel, explore, adventure, and complete courses successfully. Professors encourage you to travel and see Europe and even ask you how your weekend traveling was. The pre-departure tasks were a lot to deal with the semester prior to leaving but once you're here, it's all worth it. The CIEE excursions were also great and well organized. However, there are very limited spots so it may be hard to actually go on them. Housing was also great for me. My apartment was located on the classic street of Consell de Cent. The apartment was big and in a great location. I had 10 random roommates and overall it was a great experience to get to know new people.

What was the most surprising thing you saw or did?
The culture here is very different from the United States. People tend to be slower when walking on the sidewalks and you can expect a meal at a restaurant to last around 2 hours. Servers take their time as the culture tends to be to sit and enjoy your meal over an extended period of time. Tip here is also not expected but appreciated and one big difference is that water is not free at restaurants.
Pros
  • You can take your time to enjoy and take in moments
  • Food is great
  • Most restaurants have outdoor seating and are a great setup for enjoying your time with friends and family
Cons
  • If your time is limited, you may not be able to eat at a restaurant and get out of there in a timely manner
  • You have to pay for water
  • Sidewalk traffic due to slow walking
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Alexander
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Amazing Experience

For anyone deciding to Study Abroad, Barcelona is the perfect location and CIEE offers amazing support. CIEE is very organized in their communication with students, which has made my experience better and stress-free. The classes themselves are not too challenging which allows students to spend time exploring the city of Barcelona and to travel to other cities in Europe. The CIEE buildings are conveniently located - only a 3-minute walk from the Metro! I recommend Barcelona - CIEE to anybody interested in studying overseas.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
Do your research before traveling to new places.
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Will
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

My experience in Barcelona

Studying abroad in Barcelona was nothing short of a transformative adventure—a whirlwind of new experiences, vibrant culture, and personal growth. As I reflect on my time in this enchanting city, I can't help but feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the unforgettable memories and invaluable lessons it has bestowed upon me.
 
From the moment I stepped off the plane and into the bustling streets of Barcelona, I was captivated by its unique charm and energy. The city seemed to pulse with life, its streets lined with architectural wonders and vibrant murals adorning every corner. It was a feast for the senses, and I eagerly embraced every opportunity to immerse myself in its rich tapestry of sights, sounds, and flavors.
 
One of the most remarkable aspects of my study abroad experience was the opportunity to connect with people from all walks of life. Whether it was striking up conversations with locals in charming cafés or bonding with fellow students over tapas and sangria, I was constantly inspired by the diversity and warmth of the people I encountered. Each interaction was a lesson in cultural exchange, broadening my perspectives and deepening my understanding of the world around me.
 
Academically, Barcelona offered a wealth of opportunities for intellectual exploration and growth. My classes were taught by passionate professors who encouraged critical thinking and creativity, challenging me to approach learning from new angles and perspectives. Whether it was delving into the history of Catalan art or studying the intricacies of Spanish literature, I found myself truly engaged and inspired by the academic environment.
 
Of course, studying abroad wasn't all about hitting the books. One of the highlights of my time in Barcelona was the opportunity to explore its rich cultural heritage and vibrant nightlife. From the awe-inspiring architecture of Antoni Gaudí to the bustling markets of La Boqueria, every day was an adventure waiting to unfold. And when night fell, the city came alive with the pulsating rhythm of flamenco music and the laughter of revelers spilling out onto the streets. It was nothing short of a once in a lifetime experience.
 
But perhaps the most profound aspect of my study abroad experience was the personal growth it inspired within me. Living in a foreign country forced me out of my comfort zone, challenging me to navigate unfamiliar situations and adapt to new ways of life. It was a journey of self-discovery, teaching me resilience, independence, and the importance of embracing uncertainty with an open heart.
 
As I prepare to bid farewell to Barcelona and embark on the next chapter of my journey, I carry with me a treasure trove of memories and experiences that will stay with me for a lifetime. Studying abroad in this vibrant city has been a gift beyond measure, shaping not only my academic and professional aspirations but also my understanding of the world and my place within it. Barcelona will always hold a special place in my heart, a beacon of adventure, discovery, and endless possibility.

What was your funniest moment?
When my friends and I went to a bar and my buddy accidentally ordered a 0 percent beer and didn’t realize it.
Pros
  • Make new friends
  • Explore new countries
  • Expand your world view
Cons
  • Bad academics
  • Rude teachers
  • Harsh foreigners
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Ellie
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Well-Rounded Study Abroad Experience

CIEE's study abroad program provided a great ratio of academics, local culture immersion, and freedom. Staff members provided support and events, while also leaving lots of room for individual travel and personal time. Class times and schedules were perfectly crafted to allow for adequate rest and travel buffers, and I was even able to join a local sports team to maintain my training until I return back to my university. During my time abroad I also got to visit the UK, the Netherlands, Sweden, and even do a part of the Camino de Santiago! Such a fun, well-rounded experience.

What was the most unfamiliar thing you ate?
They make snails, which was strange, but I really enjoyed "croquetas". They also had "calcots" which were long onions dipped in a sauce which were in season when I studied there.
Pros
  • Easy, inexpensive public transportation
  • Lots of history and art
  • Close to city and sea life
Cons
  • Crowded (lots of tourists)
  • Lots of robbery/theft
  • Very condensed city, not a lot of open space
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Kayla
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

CIEE ROME- OPEN CAMPUS

I couldn't give a more positive review to this program. Very easy classes and great professors. CIEE Rome offer high-quality academic experiences, including a variety of courses taught by experienced faculty members. The cultural immersion opportunities are quite endless. The effectiveness of language instruction, cultural activities, and interactions with local communities in Rome. The quality of housing options provided by CIEE, as well as the availability of support services such as on-site staff, orientation programs, and assistance with logistics and cultural adjustment. Clear communication and well-organized programs are crucial for a positive study abroad experience and that's exactly what Rome did. The responsiveness to student concerns or emergencies that I presented were taken into consideration so I felt seen and valued throughout it all!

What was the most nerve-racking moment and how did you overcome it?
Coming to orientation and not knowing many people, but then many of those faces turned into friendly acquaintances.
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Maryn
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

J-Term Monteverde

I had the best experience and made the best friends. My biggest piece of advice is to go in with no expectations, and to keep an open mind. There is going to be new food, a new culture, new people and plenty of other things you may not be used to. If you're open to what the trip has to offer, you are going to have the most unforgettable experience. The CIEE staff is amazing, and I felt so safe during my entire trip to Monteverde, Costa Rica. I only did the J-term session, and wish I had stayed for longer. I took Sustainable Development in the Tropics, and actually learned so much in only 3 weeks. Could not have better things to say!

What was the most surprising thing you saw or did?
There were so many monkeys and coatis, which were really cool to see. I also saw a sloth and some iguanas, which was awesome. During our free weekends, my friends and I went ziplining, in hot springs, horse back riding and to Manuel Antonio for the beach. There are so many opportunities to explore and have fun.
Pros
  • Wildlife
  • New perspectives
  • Amazing friends
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Zach
4/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Japan Study abroad

Hi! I studied in Tokyo, Japan, and did a homestay! It was a pleasant experience to live in another country and see how others live their lives! Also, learning another language extends how many people you can interact with and how many incredible stories you can hear! I highly recommend it, and going through CIEE is a great choice! Also, the school I attended (Sophia University) was an excellent school to go too! They are adorable and international school-friendly! However, the Japanese class is a lot of work, so be ready to work, but learning another language and talking to others in their language is fulfilling!

What was the most unfamiliar thing you ate?
I ate some incredible things in Japan! Like cow tongue and jellyfish! There were things I didn't like, salted squid...but I am glad that I had an open mindset and tried everything!
Pros
  • Learn a language
  • Meet cool people
  • Live abroad
Cons
  • Miss home
  • Sometimes stressful
  • Hard to get what you want sometimes! (language barrier)