I studied abroad in Seville, Spain in the Spring of 2022 for almost 4 months. Living and studying in Spain was one of the best decisions I ever made. I learned so much about Spanish culture and about how other people live. My time in Spain made me more grateful for my own life and it helped me become more independent on my own. I also made friends that I will have for the rest of my life! The CIEE staff were so welcoming and helpful whenever I had a question or needed anything. The staff made everyone feel more comfortable and safe in the new environment.
CIEE was the last of three study abroad program I participated in and it was absolutely my favorite. The staff was incredible and the people in the program are some of the coolest people I have ever met. The group came from all around the states, making it a diverse and fun group. The classes were relevant to the location and the teachers were all experts in their field. I had a class about British theatre and my teacher was a play write in London! It made the class so meaningful. Especially since he was able to bring in Michael Billington to talk to my class (who is basically a celebrity as a theatre critic).
I had an amazing time in Copenhagen thanks to CIEE! The staff was extremely helpful during the application process. They also answered any questions I had before I left for Copenhagen. Upon arrival, orientation was informative and was a great opportunity to meet the staff and the other students! Classes were filled with interesting discussions and lectures. Outside of class, I had lots of fun as well exploring the city of Copenhagen with my classmates! I could not have asked for better housing.
I never would have imagined myself to be 21 years old, exploring South Africa with an amazing group of new friends, all while working a truly incredible internship. I went into this program not knowing anyone. I was so happy when I arrived and was greeted by some of the kindest people I had ever met. I truly made some life long friends during my trip. I was able to intern at a publishing firm called Modjaji Books during my time in Africa. Not only did this enhance my resume, but I also found my love for publishing. My summer abroad in Cale Town truly changed my life.
I was hesitant about studying in Germany because I have never been before and am a health science major. The CIEE staff was super helpful and consistent with reaching out. I was able to complete my major-required classes by doing one on one courses. The location seems scary from the outside but is beautiful on the inside. Students are outside the city's heart, providing excellent food and fun. You definitely have to get used to cooking for yourself because you live in an apartment-style building but share a kitchen with other students. I experienced a language barrier but quickly picked up on short phrases. At first, I was intimidated by the people, but they are friendly and most of them speak English. I had such a great time that I am already planning my next trip back!!
My experience with CIEE in Seville was a once in a lifetime opportunity to experience a new culture. I opted for a language immersion program so I was completely engulfed in Spanish all day, everyday. There were plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in the local area. For example, I was able to volunteer teaching English at an elementary school and I even made some extra money tutoring kids on the side. I absolutely loved my host family as well. The helped build a connection that I will keep with me for the rest of my life. Furthermore, the CIEE support staff is amazing and always willing to help with any problem you may have.
Pros
great support staff
having a host family helps integrate you into the culture
the city is beautiful and it is the perfect place to learn spanish
What other participants should know
it is relatively far from other popular areas in Europe like London, Paris, Amsterdam, etc.
Going to Prague has been by far the best experience I have had as a college student. From the support I had at the program’s school to housing to my location within Europe which allowed me to travel - everything was close to perfect. I think the greatest part though, were the people. The staff, the professors and my fellow American classmates made my abroad experience so special. On a personal level, my experience pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me understand that the world is 100x larger and more diverse than I ever imagined.
The CIEE experience in Prague was awesome. There was a great balance of school work and being able to travel around Prague and other countries on the weekends. The school includes five required courses that can count towards your major back at your university or you can branch out and try new courses. The teachers are awesome and the classes are all interactive by being focused around group work and conversation. To add, the program gives an appropriate amount of homework which allowed us to get immersed in Prague culture.
My experience abroad was incredible. The staff of CIEE was wonderful and made the experience as educational and enjoyable as possible. This program allowed us to travel throughout Spain and immerse ourselves in the culture. The staff in this program went the extra mile to make sure we were comfortable and able to thrive. The front desk staff especially was always so friendly and willing to give recommendations for everything, even if it is just where to go to lunch that day. This program brings in people from several different schools so you have the opportunity to meet a plethora of new people and make lifelong friendships.
Pros
Learned a lot
Met incredible people
What other participants should know
the program was too short, by the end you wish you had more time
Coming to CIEE in Berlin was one of the best decisions I've made in my life. Academically, I had a lot of fun learning about entrepreneurship and start-ups with a great professor who made the class a lot of fun and taught us a lot. On the personal level I had great time. I met a lot of cool people from either the United States or Germany and made great friends in a very short time. CIEE was also really helpful in that aspect as they organized some excursions that helped us explore more of Berlin and outside Berlin as we went to Leipzig.