CIEE

Program Reviews

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Thomas
4/5
Yes, I recommend this program

One of my Best Travel Experiences

From when I got there to when I left, Singapore had me in awe. Beautiful and full of culture but modern in technology and architecture, Singapore is a unique place to go abroad. It's a fantastic option for someone's first study abroad experience, whether you want to visit alone or with a friend group! CIEE people care about the students, and everyone who studies abroad is in the same boat as you, so you form nice bonds with the rest! You put in the work but have plenty of time to discover all of Singapore.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
Budget! Singapore is a very nice city where you can find food at a good price, but after a couple of weeks, your bank account starts to feel the hit. Most of your expenses will be unplanned; so plan for that!
Pros
  • Great friends
  • Wider Network
  • Different perspective on the world
Cons
  • Spent a lot of money
  • Away from family for holidays
  • Goodbyes are sad
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Katelyn
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

January in Amsterdam

I had the most memorable month in Amsterdam with CIEE! From the start, the staff was supportive, responsive, and organized. They made themselves available to help us feel comfortable. The trips taken were the class were so much fun and a great way to meet the other students. I learned a ton in my class and made so many memories outside of class! Lots of shopping, things to do, and places to eat. We went to tons of museums and tried lots of different types of food as well. Would recommend to anyone!

What was the most unfamiliar thing you ate?
I tried Indonesian food for the first time with our school! It was delicious and greatly expanded my horizons.
Pros
  • Free time to explore and travel
  • Supportive staff
  • Housed with friends
Cons
  • Housing a bit out from the city
  • Some classes were on the weekends
  • Orientation was extremely helpful
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Bridgette
4/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Cultural Immersion

I greatly enjoyed the program overall. I did the 3 week J-term program, and studied Business of Fashion in Paris. The instructor discussed luxury fashion through a Parisian perspective, which I loved - I didn't come here to learn the American perspective! We visited many galleries and the learning experience was hands on.

As for the program itself, I was satisfied. My only complaint was the distance of the housing, as my commute to downtown was around 30 minutes and discouraged going out to explore to a degree. However, I am aware that this program is shorter so maybe they did this for that reason, and the semester students have closer housing. Housing was clean and safe overall.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
Prioritize rest! It is ok to miss out once in a while to get a good night's sleep or get your life together. Instagram and TikTok do not ever reflect this. Obviously push yourself though, because there will be moments where you don't feel like doing something new but it was always worth it.
Pros
  • Greater understanding of the fashion industry and Parisian culture
  • New friends and connections
  • Central location of Paris, great for external travel
Cons
  • Distant housing for J-Term program
  • Language barrier can be difficult for tourists
  • Can be unsafe depending on the neighborhood
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Abby
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

A Fascinating Experience!

Seville's winter term study abroad program is a transformative experience. The city's rich history and vibrant culture create an ideal backdrop for learning. I'm an art student and I wanted to expand my knowledge on other cultures, so this was especially perfect. The class was engaging and the passionate professors made academic growth enjoyable. The mild winter weather enhances the exploration of stunning landmarks like the plaza and the Giralda Tower. The locals were super patient with my shaky Spanish and were always very sweet. The delicious tapas enrich the social and culinary aspects of the trip. Overall, Seville's winter program blends education and cultural immersion seamlessly, leaving lasting memories and broadening horizons. I feel like I've grown as a person and I got an experience that will last me a lifetime.

What was the most surprising thing you saw or did?
We saw La Sagrada Familia and it was absolutely breathtaking. I loved learning about the creation and Gaudi's thought process.
Pros
  • Food
  • Scenery
  • Art
Cons
  • Air quality
  • Intense classes
  • Loads of walking
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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)