CEA CAPA Education Abroad

Program Reviews

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Emma
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Beautiful Prague!

Prague truly has something for everyone! It's an amazing destination for students, offering both affordability and excellent transportation. The food scene is great, with Czechs' love for food and drinking culture playing a big role in social life. There are diverse dining options and cozy cafes with scenic street seating. The city is filled with beautiful, colorful architecture and plenty of parks. Walking through Prague, you come across incredible views, unique sculptures, greenery and parks, and pretty gardens and nature. It’s great for history buffs, museum lovers, nature lovers, and offers many markets and cultural landmarks.

The public transportation system is great and quick to learn, making it easy to explore the city and beyond. Its central location in Europe also makes traveling to other countries super accessible letting you maximize your experience which I always loved. CEA has really great staff in Prague, and they provide unique local housing, so you really feel like you’re moving there and living amongst locals. Studying abroad in Prague will expand your world perspective, enhance your cultural intelligence, and help you learn a lot about yourself, as well as giving your resume a serious boost! During my program, I met amazing people, from fellow students to locals, which made the experience even more enriching.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
My advice to anyone going on this program is make friends with people in the program and locals. In the beginning people tended to stick around and count on their roommates and flat mates to hang out which is great, and I totally recommend but try to meet lots of people. There are so many people with different interests, and you might find people that want to travel or do the same things. My roommates and I started hanging out with the other people in our building (also CEA) and they would host dinner nights where we would all go to their apartment with food and hang out and talk about our time there. While Czech locals tend to be a little more closed off making it hard to connect at times, if you are interning try to make friends or connect. It was honestly hard for me in the beginning, but I took the opportunities I could and went out with a coworker and her family one time even though we didn’t speak the same language. I still text her to this day (through google translate). I would also talk to my coworkers, and they would ask questions about America, and we’d share stories, and sometimes go eat. Take every opportunity to get to know coworkers and other CEA students.
Pros
  • Walkable/Easy public transportation
  • Affordable
  • Great housing
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Parnika
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Loved it!

I was immersed in the culture at Costa Rica the moment I got there but was guided the entire time by the staff. It is my first time traveling alone outside of the country and I was a little worried at first but I felt very supported by the onsite staff while I was there. The staff was also great for pre-departure and also when I got back home. While I was there, I was in a homestay and was able to embrace the culture with the locals and was able to eat great home cooked meals by our host mom. I was able to meet many other students as well and make great friends!

What was the most nerve-racking moment and how did you overcome it?
I did not speak the language when I went there and it was scary at first. But, people are friendly and willing to work and communicate with you still. I was able to start learning the language too and it was great!
Pros
  • Amazing excursions
  • Flexible and accommodating
  • Meeting new people
Cons
  • Rainy weather at times
  • Can be costly compared to other Latin American countries
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Maddy
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Study Abroad Experience in Rome, Italy

This experience was truly one of the most life-changing events I have had. I made some of my closest friends in college that I lived with for five weeks in Rome, and have continued to stay close with them following the program. The resources CEA CAPA provided helped me immensely with the preparation to live alone in a foreign country, and everything was taken care of when we arrived. This experience was so unique to me because of the incredible memories I made with my study abroad group both in and out of the classroom and I cannot believe I didn't know them before this summer. We all share such a special bond no matter where we end up after college, but I am sure we will all stay close and always remember the unforgettable time we had in Italy.

What was the most nerve-racking moment and how did you overcome it?
The most nerve-racking moment during my trip was our case competition for our Business Communications class. I was most nervous for this because I am not the best public speaker and we were presenting during a short time frame to prepare. However, my group and I overcame this by preparing as much as we could out of class as well and presenting to our teachers to build a more comfortable understanding of our speaking roles.
Pros
  • Location: easy access to public transportation/landmarks/places to shop and eat
  • Schedule: the days we went on trips and different activities were well planned and allowed for changes
  • Social: I met some of the best people on my trip, and even networked with some professors and business leaders in Italy.
Cons
  • no air conditioning
  • expensive personal costs outside of trip expenses
  • Difficult to work a job during summer around trip time period being gone for the first month of the summer
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Avila
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Alicante Intensive Spanish Language - Summer 2024

The Alicante Intensive Spanish Language program was an incredible experience! The immersion in Alicante, a beautiful coastal city in Spain, provided the perfect balance of intensive language learning and cultural exploration. The classes were challenging but very effective, and the small class sizes allowed for personal connection with the lovely spanish teachers. I could feel my Spanish improving daily, especially with the opportunities to practice outside of class with locals. Alicante isn’t overwhelmed with tourists, so I got to experience the culture more naturally. From exploring the historic Castillo de Santa Barbara to enjoying the beaches and local festivals, there was always something exciting to do. The program also offered excursions to Isla Tabarca and the beautiful mountain town of Guadalest. We also did a city tour, paella cooking class, and wine tasting as a group, which were all so much fun. I felt very safe and comfortable in Alicante, and the public transportation was amazing! We were given metro/bus cards so we could easily get anywhere in the city, and the metro ran up and down the coast, so we could explore different nearby beach towns. Overall, the Alicante Intensive Spanish Language program was a fantastic choice for anyone looking to improve their Spanish quickly while enjoying the rich culture of a less touristy but vibrant part of Spain. I highly recommend it!

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
Embrace the language: Even if you’re not fluent yet, don’t be afraid to speak Spanish as much as possible. Locals appreciate the effort, and you’ll improve faster by practicing in real-life situations. Alicante is a welcoming city, and connecting with locals can enrich your experience.
Pros
  • Cultral Immersion
  • Beautiful Beaches
  • Spanish Skills
Cons
  • Sub-par housing
  • HOT in the summer
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Gretchen
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Gretchen Brown's Sevilla Adventure

I had the absolute best time studying abroad in Sevilla, Spain. I can confidently say that it was the best time of my life that I will forever hold close to my heart. If I wasn't a senior, I would be going again-- and making sure CEA CAPA was there to have my back. CEA CAPA made my experience smooth sailing. Whether it was my pink eye or when my host mother wasn't able to cook for us for a week, CEA CAPA was there to figure it out for us. Sevilla is such a magical place that will win your heart. The people are so kind. Sevilla is traditional Spain, so you really feel like you are living in another country. It is so unique. Some days were challenging, but that was the only way I was able to grow into the strongest version of myself. The city is magnificent with much to do. Not to mention its great prices and awesome fashion and culture. There was always something to do; a new experience was always a walk outside my home.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
My advice to travelers on this program is to remind yourselves to do everything you want to do. Of course, money plays a factor and I am a stickler when it comes to money. But I really lived off the motto: "Money comes back, memories don't." And I do not regret it for one second. I can't express enough how important this opportunity is. You will never forget it. So do the things you want to do because you will never ever in your life live like this (program) ever again. You miss 100% of the experiences you don't take.
Pros
  • Host Mom to cook and clean for us
  • cheap prices
  • excellent quality of food (compared to the US)
Cons
  • no air conditioning/heating
  • limited cuisines of food
  • no spicy food
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Mikhaelah
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Dreaming on the Streets of Paris: Study Abroad in Paris Summer 2024

Studying abroad with CEA CAPA in Paris last summer was truly a one of a kind experience. CEA CAPA did everything they could to make sure that studying abroad was nothing like being a tourist in the City of Lights. I was able to fully immerse into the French culture and community through all of the little things like commuting on the metro, having a traditional French breakfast with my host family in the mornings, and becoming a regular at my favorite fruit stand. It was through these moments that I learned so much more than just what I did in the classroom. In the classroom I learned how to speak French and about French culture, and then even just on my way to lunch after class I was able to see it in action. I got to see all of the tourist things like monuments and museums which were so amazing, but I also got to see a side of Paris that many people don't get to see. When I think of my time in Paris, what I miss the most is something as simple as walking the streets of Paris. That is what made this learning experience unforgettable.

What was the most unfamiliar thing you ate?
You cant go to France without trying escargot! During my time in France, I got to try a lot of new foods, but the most unique and unfamiliar was escargot. I got to try escargot for the first time in Paris when it was provided at the CEA CAPA Study Center one week for our weekly food sampling experience. It was something new and the idea of it was a little peculiar to me, but I loved it! Not everyone who tried it was a fan of it, but we were all glad to have had a chance to try this well-known part of French culture and cuisine.
Pros
  • Staying with a Host Family
  • Many museum benefits for being a student studying in France
  • Lots of independence
Cons
  • Short program
  • Costs can pile up, so make sure you plan well
  • Learning to navigate the city on your own can be a little scary at first
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Alyssa
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Buenos Aires, Argentina Spring '24

I had a fantastic time in Buenos Aires! I was able to balance academics and personal life well. CEA CAPA's on-site staff informed students about all the details of navigating the city and provided resources students could use. After the first few days there, I felt well-informed about the city.

I studied at the University of Belgrano and appreciated that my professors valued experiential learning for students. Many of our projects and assignments required us to visit monuments, palaces, and museums throughout the city. I learned much about Latin American and Argentine history that I probably would have never known if it weren't for traveling abroad.

I made an amazing group of friends, many of whom I'm still in contact with. We traveled all around Argentina and even had the chance to travel to Brazil. We all enjoyed going to soccer games and making friends with locals because we often visited jersey stores in Boca.

I was able to visit my mom's birthplace, Cordoba, and meet her family and friends there. I truly had the best time and would recommend it to anyone considering Argentina.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
Don't be afraid to take public transportation anywhere in the city. I found it to be the most reliable form of transportation. Fortunately, my friends and I didn't experience any theft; however, if you're careful with your belongings in general, you reduce your risk of theft. Since their primary form of currency is cash, I found it helpful to bring crisp and clean $100 bills to exchange for pesos at the exchange houses.
Pros
  • Artisan fairs
  • Locals are welcoming
  • Exciting sports atmosphere
Cons
  • Exchange rates are constantly fluctuating
  • Bus driver strikes/protests can happen anytime
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Jessica
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Paris abroad winter 2025

One of the best experiences of my life. I learned a lot on this trip including academics and was able to learn how to be more independent while also having support from CEA when needed. Tons of activities to do in Paris and the program included a lot of activities in conjunction with classes so it wasn't all classes. The apartment I was in was small but I thought it was pretty good. The staff is superb. I loved them so much. They seemed like they actually liked their jobs. That's the first time I've seen something like that before.

What was your funniest moment?
This random old man was staring straight into my eyes on the metro so I stared right back at him. He looked away and then stared straight into my eyes again and started smiling. I just kept staring at him too so we basically had a staring contest three times because he looked away and stared straight back into my eyes again.
Pros
  • Endless activities
  • Beautiful architecture
  • Top tier staff
Cons
  • Paris is expensive
  • Food - sorry I don't like French food but there were plenty of other types of food too
  • Water in my apartment got so cold fast
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Meg
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Semester Abroad in Buenos Aires, Argentina

My semester abroad in Buenos Aires, Argentina was nothing short of transformative. From the vibrant culture to the stunning landscapes, every moment was filled with discovery and growth. I attended classes at the CEA CAPA Study Center. I found the classes both challenging and engaging. The professors were passionate, often integrating local history and culture into the curriculum, making learning feel relevant and immersive. Living with other students studying abroad was one of the highlights of my experience. Friends of my family acted as my host family and introduced me to traditional Argentine customs, from asado to tango, showcasing the warmth and hospitality of the Argentine people. They have a truly welcoming spirit!

Exploring Buenos Aires became a daily adventure, with each neighborhood offering something unique—from the colorful streets of La Boca to the historic charm of San Telmo. The city’s vibrant nightlife, filled with music and dancing, was exhilarating.

Beyond the city, Argentina's natural landscapes took my breath away. A trip to Patagonia revealed majestic mountains and glaciers while visiting Iguazu Falls left me mesmerized by its sheer power and beauty.
Of course, there were challenges. The language barrier was initially daunting, but immersing myself in Spanish every day helped me improve quickly.

Overall, my semester in Argentina was a life-changing experience. I gained academic knowledge, developed a deeper understanding of a culture rich in history and tradition, and returned home with lasting friendships and unforgettable memories. If you're considering a semester abroad, Argentina should be at the top of your list!

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
Keep an open mind and travel as much as you can! Immerse yourself in the culture and go out of your way to meet locals because they are so welcoming and friendly!
Pros
  • Yummy food! And everything is cheap compared to the US.
  • Great nightlife and clubbing!
  • Easy to learn public transportation system!
Cons
  • Very different foods in the grocery stores.
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Grace
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Abroad In Sydney

My experience was so amazing and Australia provided the opportunity to experience an entirely different side of the world which was very special. Sydney was a balance of beaches and city and it offered so many cultures and activities. I was able to explore and meet lots of new people while traveling. Going abroad helped me find a new sense of independence and there were many moments where I was encouraged to step outside of my comfort zone, and I am so thankful that I did because it allowed me to find out more about myself.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
I would tell future travelers to take chances and to take advantage of every opportunity while they're abroad. Travel provides so many moments for students to step outside of their comfort zone and some of my favorite memories were times that I was nervous or unsure. There are so many people looking out for you while you're abroad so take the time to push yourself and grow.
Pros
  • I made so many new friends
  • Traveled to new places
  • Became more independent