Program Reviews

This previous summer I studied medical Spanish abroad in San Jose, Costa Rica for three weeks. While there, I was enrolled in a five credit course at Veritas University where I learned ample medical terms in Spanish. We had two hour classes Monday through Thursday and presentations from medical professionals once a week. My classmates were solely students from my university’s program, although Costa Rica’s academic season is during America’s summer season and we arrived during the midst of their normal semester. In addition to classes, I shadowed physicians (12 hours total), volunteered with a local nonprofit organization (4 hours total), and engaged in guided tours of the city, museums, and various public/private hospitals. My program also included a cooking class (off campus), a dance class (on campus), a day-excursion (to a coffee farm) and an overnight-excursion (to a chocolate farm, hot springs water park, and hostel near a volcano). We were also allowed to explore on our own freely throughout the week. The CEA CAPA staff were amazing by attentively answering any questions/concerns and physically guiding us throughout every program-specific activity (on and off campus).

As a young black woman, I was anxious about being in a foreign environment, however, it was almost immediately that I was embraced with the “pura vida” and welcoming spirit of Costa Rica. Before our departure, a questionnaire was provided to help with housing arrangements. I lived with two roommates (who were from my university) and a native older woman (called a “mama tica” or Costa Rican mother). In my program our host families/mama ticas prepared breakfast and dinner but would provide additional meals if requested. Our dietary restrictions and preferences were deeply considered and the food was overall good. My roommates and I walked five minutes to campus and felt very safe, as police frequently patrolled the neighborhood, though the entire country was quite safe and is highly noted for its lack of crime. I believe being completely immersed in Spanish culture significantly improved my Spanish proficiency and cultural understanding but also completely changed my perspective on international education. I absolutely enjoyed my time abroad and would recommend it to everyone regardless of their background or experience. I hope this review was helpful and you have an amazing time abroad!

This was an amazing experience. Prague is a very special place. Its beauty, safety, and livability is unmatched. I couldn't have asked for an easier city to get around or a better life to live. This was truly such a blessing. CEA CAPA was extremely kind and helpful. The living arrangements made were perfect. I was located in Prague 7 in a wonderful part of the city. I always felt safe. I loved the Czechs as well. People were very kind and forthright. I enjoyed their culture. I also played hockey growing up so for me this was a wonderful time, especially since the World Cup was then and the Czechs won! Thank you!

Studying abroad in Florence, Italy, with the CEA CAPA program this spring has been an incredible and unforgettable experience. From the moment I arrived, I was immersed in the city’s rich culture, history, and vibrant lifestyle. The CEA CAPA team made sure every aspect of my journey was well-organized and supportive, making the transition smooth from start to finish. Academically, studying in Florence was a refreshing change from what I’m used to in the U.S. Classes were smaller, allowing for more personal interaction with professors. The teaching style was much more hands-on, and professors often brought lessons to life with field trips and real-world examples. For example, instead of just reading about Italian cuisine, we visited local markets and took part in tastings and pairings to experience the flavors and traditions firsthand. The pace of the classes was slower than the fast-paced courses I’m used to, but that gave me more time to dive into the material and engage with it on a deeper level. It’s a different approach, but nothing to be intimidated by. The professors were approachable and always willing to answer questions, which made adjusting to this new style of learning much easier. You do need to be prepared for a more independent way of learning, where the focus is on personal engagement and applying knowledge, rather than memorizing facts. Throughout the semester, CEA CAPA provided outstanding support. From pre-departure orientation to ongoing help while in Florence, I always felt well taken care of. The staff was available whenever I needed advice or assistance, whether academic or personal. My housing was in a central location, which made it easy to explore the city and truly experience everything Florence has to offer.

My experience with CEA CAPA in Barcelona was nothing short of transformative, and I am deeply grateful for how unique and enriching the entire program was. From the immersive academic experiences to the hands-on cultural engagements, CEA CAPA’s approach to study abroad took learning to an entirely new level, far beyond what I ever imagined. What stood out most was how they seamlessly integrated academics with the cultural, social, and professional aspects of life in Barcelona, making the growth through experiential learning both educational and personal.

One of the key reasons my experience was so unique was the emphasis on learning outside the classroom. From day one, CEA CAPA encouraged me to explore the city and engage with its rich culture, making every moment an opportunity for growth. I didn't just study Spanish in a classroom; I lived it through conversations with locals, visits to museums, cooking classes, and volunteering at local community programs. I remember vividly the tapas cooking workshop I participated in, which was not just a lesson in culinary techniques but a deep dive into Spanish culture. It was a fun and delicious way to learn about Spain’s food traditions, and it allowed me to bond with fellow students and local chefs, making the experience both educational and interactive. These moments were far from traditional lectures and helped me feel connected to the place in ways I had not anticipated.

The most significant highlight for me was my volunteer work with ITACA ELS VENTS, a local after-school program. While many students were studying and learning from textbooks, I was given the chance to directly engage with children from diverse backgrounds, improving my cross-cultural communication skills and gaining insight into the social challenges facing communities in Barcelona. Through games and activities, I not only practiced my Spanish, but I also developed patience, empathy, and adaptability. Working with these kids helped me break down language barriers and taught me the importance of understanding cultural differences in a meaningful way. It was through experiences like these that I felt the true essence of learning—both in and outside the classroom. In conclusion, my time with CEA CAPA in Barcelona was an unforgettable experience that exceeded my expectations in every way. The program’s commitment to combining academic rigor with cultural immersion, hands-on learning, and personal growth set it apart from other study abroad programs. I walked away from the experience not just with a deeper understanding of Spain and its culture, but also with new perspectives on education, global citizenship, and my own personal development. I truly loved my time with CEA CAPA because it was not just about studying abroad, it was about becoming a part of a global community, gaining life-changing experiences, and learning in ways that are impossible to replicate in a traditional classroom.

First time leaving the US and I could not have chosen a better country. Everyone at CEA CAPA was amazing, especially Maggie and Yeison, they actually build relationships and a bond with each cohort. They are responsive to any needs like medical needs. They offer so much support. I also loved my cohort from the semester I was abroad, I was able to meet people from all over the states and create long lasting friendships and memories. I went horseback riding, walked on a hanging bridge and saw my very first sloth. It was such a surreal experience and I thank CEA CAPA for enhancing that experience.

First time leaving the US and I could not have chosen a better country. Everyone at CEA CAPA was amazing, especially Maggie and Yeison, they actually build relationships and a bond with each cohort. They are responsive to any needs like medical needs. They offer so much support. I also loved my cohort from the semester I was abroad, I was able to meet people from all over the states and create long lasting friendships and memories. I went horseback riding, walked on a hanging bridge and saw my very first sloth. It was such a surreal experience and I thank CEA CAPA for enhancing that experience.

I enjoyed my time abroad with CEA CAPA because they made the experience worry free. They provided comfortable housing accommodations and gave us transportation cards allowing us to move around the city with ease. I also really enjoyed the day trips they organized for us to go on and get out of the city. In the classroom I really enjoyed all the field studies we got to go on for a more hands on approach to learning, these trips to me to places that I would have likely never have gone to otherwise.

Studying abroad in Sydney was an experience that genuinely changed my life. I had the opportunity to explore a completely unfamiliar place, step outside of my comfort zone, and meet new people! I learned so much about myself and found a love of travel and adventure. While I was initially nervous to go across the world from everything I knew, the CEA CAPA staff was super supportive and made going abroad feel easy. Also, the CEA CAPA staff provided so many amazing suggestions of things to do and see, and we even had unlimited access to public transportation and passes to multiple major destinations in Sydney.

Hey! My name is Lillian Smith and I did the CEA CAPA Paris Fashion Studies Program spring of 2024 my sophomore year of college. Overall, it was an amazing experience and I would definitely do it again if given the time and the funding. The negatives were definitely the adapting phase. The first couple weeks were rough with getting used to the culture and living in a very large city, especially because I didn't know the language prior. Meeting new people is a joy, but trying to establish a friend group in a foreign country by yourself can be a major stressor, so all of these things considered, it was a rough first couple of weeks, but once I was adjusted I had the time of my life. I will say that when selecting housing, the shared studio apartment is not the best quality, and I would go for an apartment if you are able to, but it was fine in the end and I did enjoy it. The view wasn't nice and we were on the outskirts of the city, however, this meant that we had smaller, less crowded restaurants and stores with cheaper prices because it wasn't touristy, and that was a huge help in the long run. We even became regulars at a couple places and befriended some of the staff. The biggest positives are definitely the staff. They plan so many things for the students and are so insanely helpful; I really loved my professors and the content of my classes. I learned so much. Really enjoyed this program!

Going abroad to Sydney was the best part of my college experience. I got to meet so many new people and see so many new cities and places that I never thought I would get to. CEA CAPA had the best staff on site to assist you with any needs that you had throughout your abroad time. I loved having the resources of the staff and teachers to ask about where to go locally and where we had to visit on the weekends. It was very comforting to know there were wiser, more established people in the city who cared about us and wanted us to be safe and have the best experience. I could not say enough good things about CEA CAPA and the program in Sydney, and I would 100% recommend it to anyone who asks me!