I spent six weeks in London, England, this past summer through CEA CAPA, taking two classes while completing a 20-hour-a-week internship. It was such a unique experience to be able to balance school, work, and exploring a new country all at once. I loved getting to experience London beyond just being a tourist, whether that was through my internship, exploring different neighborhoods, trying new foods, or visiting places we learned about in class. I also got to meet so many amazing people from across the US and England and make friendships that I know will last long beyond the summer. CEA CAPA provided a great balance of independence and support, allowing me to step outside my comfort zone and make the most of my time abroad. This experience has had a lasting impact on both my education and personal growth, and I will always be grateful for the memories, people, and opportunities that made these six weeks so special!
What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
My biggest piece of advice for anyone considering this program or a similar one is to be proactive and plan ahead! Time really does fly by when you’re abroad, so having an idea of the places you want to visit and trips you want to take can help you make the most of your experience. I was able to travel to Scotland and Paris during my time abroad, but I also met so many students who planned ahead and spent almost every weekend exploring a new country. At the same time, I think there is something really special about staying in your host city and having the weekends to explore places you might not otherwise get to see. There are definitely pros and cons to both, but my biggest advice is to find a balance that works for you and make sure you leave time for all the experiences you hope to have!
What other participants should know
- How spead out the different housing options were
- Lack of diversity in class options