CEA CAPA Education Abroad Reviews

Studying abroad in Barcelona was honestly one of the best experiences of my life. I went into it thinking it would just be a semester of classes in a different country, but it turned into so much more than that. Barcelona has this energy that’s hard to describe unless you’ve lived it — it’s relaxed, vibrant, social, and beautiful all at the same time. From the architecture to the beaches to the late-night dinners that somehow don’t even start until 9:30 p.m., everything felt different in the best way possible.

One of the highlights of my time there was playing in the CEA CAPA soccer league. Soccer has always been a huge part of my identity, so being able to compete while abroad made the experience feel even more complete. Our team ended up winning the league, which made it that much sweeter. There’s something special about competing in another country — different styles of play, different environments — and still coming out on top. Winning with that group felt like we were building our own little community within a completely new place. It was competitive, fun, and something I’ll always remember.

Outside of Barcelona itself, the side trips made the semester unforgettable. Oktoberfest was wild in the best way — thousands of people from all over the world packed into massive tents in traditional outfits, singing and celebrating together. It felt like a cultural experience mixed with pure chaos. Morocco was completely different — stepping into the markets, hearing the call to prayer, riding camels in the desert — it felt like I had jumped into another world. Switzerland was unreal with its mountains and lakes; it looked like something out of a postcard. Stockholm gave me a whole new perspective on Scandinavian culture — clean, calm, and super modern. And Ibiza? That was just pure energy. Crystal-clear water during the day and some of the most fun nights I’ve ever had. Each trip felt like its own chapter, and the fact that I could hop on a short flight and experience completely different cultures within hours still blows my mind.

But what really made Barcelona special was the culture itself. Everything is slower in a way that I actually learned to love. People prioritize relationships, meals last for hours, and there’s no constant rush like back home. Afternoons feel long and golden, especially walking around neighborhoods near Sagrada Família or along the beach. Even simple things like grabbing coffee or sitting in a plaza felt meaningful. I loved how social everything was — friends meeting late, spontaneous plans, long conversations. It taught me to slow down and actually enjoy where I am instead of always thinking about what’s next.

Studying abroad in Barcelona wasn’t just about traveling or soccer — it changed my perspective. It made me more independent, more adaptable, and more appreciative of different ways of living. It pushed me out of my comfort zone while giving me some of the best memories of my life. Looking back, it really was amazing — not just because of where I went, but because of who I became while I was there.

Studying at QMUL was an incredible experience for me! East London has such a vibrant culture; you're walking distance from so many amazing places to eat, shop, and go out, along with having two tube stops an under-10-minute walk in either direction. It was so lovely to live on campus there, and I made more friends than I can count-- both in my classes and just from exploring the city. It wasn't terribly difficult to keep up with my required coursework as an English major, and I was left with plenty of time to have my own adventures, like participating in a musical, going to museums, doing karaoke every week, and meeting as many new faces as I could.

I loved my time abroad in Aix-en-Provence with CEA CAPA. The staff were incredibly welcoming and supportive, guiding us through every step of settling into a new country and making sure we had an enjoyable experience. They organized trips, cultural excursions, and fun events that helped us engage deeply with French culture and connect with other students. My professors were knowledgeable, approachable, and encouraging, making classes challenging yet engaging, and fostering creativity through projects like podcasts, street interviews, and newspaper design. Living in Aix, a vibrant city full of history and culture, allowed me to practice my language skills daily and fully immerse myself in local life. Throughout the semester, I gained valuable language skills, cultural understanding, professional growth, and lifelong friendships and memories that I will always treasure. This was a truly transformative program.

I was in Paris for a semester, and it was truly incredible! I was able to explore and learn about the city by myself and with friends, but CEA CAPA's program and classes made my experience even better. Every class incorporated excursions where we would be able to visit relevant sites, museums, stores, etc. I also was able to practice French and feel like a local in one of the most well-known cities in the world. I would 100% recommend this program to anyone considering a semester abroad—you will not regret it.

I was fortunate to get a scholarship through the University of Alabama and CEA CAPA so I essentially got to go abroad for free. I have never traveled outside of the south, let alone go without my family. CEA CAPA supported me throughout my journey and helped me connect with people along the way. I was able to visit 5 countries while abroad, with people I had only just met. It was a journey of a lifetime that I would love to return to. I got to live in the oldest part of our neighborhood, I was expected to be greeted with distaste, but I was accepted with open arms into the culture.

I had the best time ever studying abroad in Sydney through CEA CAPA, couldn't recommend it more! I lived with 7 other friends and traveled all around the country and surrounding countries and it was the most incredible time ever. The people are so amazing and the cultural experiences are incredible. I don't think I will have another opportunity to spend 3 months on this side of the world so I am so grateful for this opportunity and am so jealous of anyone that still has a chance to be able to go there because I had such a great time!

CEA CAPA Florence was one of the best experiences of my life. The staff and people through the program were so friendly and tried to make my experience as fun and easy as possible. Florence was a beautiful city rich in culture with beautiful views and some many amazing places to visit. The way of life in Florence opened my eyes to slow down my way of life and to really start enjoying the little things. Overall, I would recommend CEA CAPA Florence to anyone interested in studying abroad that wants a smaller feel to an amazing city.

Once I completed the program and looked back at all the memories I had, I couldn't help but feel a wave of gratitude for my first semester of college. CEA CAPA supported students in numerous ways, from having amazing and well-prepared professors who help keep the class engaged despite challenging concepts, constantly having team building events like curry nights, and constantly reiterating the support we had made me feel safe and comfortable to learn the ways of life in London while knowing I have all the resources I need.

So lucky to have this experience in my first year of college! I’m not the biggest traveler, and so it was cool being able to adjust to change so quickly but with so much support. Thanks to the program, my first semester almost never had a dull day— I was academically and socially stimulated, I also got so many steps in without even feeling it, there simply was so much to do and so many things we were encouraged to do. I only wish there were more opportunities to connect with other schools that were undergoing similar programs, as I did see them sometimes around but never had enough time to connect and share out experiences!

Barcelona is the most perfect city for a study abroad student. As a bustling, cosmopolitan city, there is a variety of things to partake in so there was never a dull moment during my study abroad experience! Even as a large, international city, it is walkable and sunny, creating a warm environment where you can feel the outdoor-focused, relaxed rhythm. Meanwhile, CEA CAPA classes provide different types of excursions depending on the course. For instance, my classmates and I were able to partake in a flamenco class where we learned the fundamentals of the dance alongside its history and origins. They also provide daytrips close to Barcelona and a weekend trip to Madrid!