CEA CAPA Education Abroad

Program Reviews

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Hannah
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Best Abroad Experience

CEA CAPA's Florence program was everything I wanted abroad and more. From the moment we arrived, we were welcomed into our cute apartments in a great location within the city. I immediately became best friends with all my roommates after entering the program knowing no one. Orientation was a great way to provide us with tips, expectations, and reassurance. Throughout the semester, my small class sizes allowed me to become better friends with my classroom peers as well as my teachers. The staff were always friendly and here to help. There were many opportunities offered throughout the course of the semester such as cooking classes, climbing the bell tower, and more. I absolutely loved everyone I met, felt super comfortable talking with the CEA staff about any problems or concerns I had, and I fell in love with Florence!

If you did this all over again, what's one thing you would change?
One thing I would change is making sure I visit more cities in Italy. I was able to train to many cities throughout Italy. However, being in Florence for 4 months is the perfect excuse to take a random day trip to a small, lesser-known town in Italy. They are all so cute, and I should have taken advantage of this more!
Pros
  • Great group of people
  • Welcoming and great-communicating staff
  • Walkable city
Cons
  • Airport is not the best
  • Pretty tourist-y
Response from CEA CAPA Education Abroad

Hey Hannah! Loved reviewing your feedback on studying abroad with CEA CAPA in Florence. Thanks for sharing your recommendations too!

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Andie
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Spring at UNSW

I absolutely adored my experience in Sydney with CEA CAPA. I did the direct-enroll program at the University of New South Wales, so I was essentially an exchange student at the local university, with the added support from the CEA CAPA team. I loved how much independence I had, but the team made sure I was taken care of. They were there for any assistance I needed, recommendations I asked for, or opportunities I wanted to explore. Any time I had a question/something to discuss, a team member would meet me for coffee to discuss. By the end of my 5 months, they really felt like my friends and mentors. Beyond the adults, I loved that the team encouraged me to meet other CEA CAPA students in Sydney that were studying at their center (rather than a direct-enroll) because it have me a whole new group of people to connect with. I love love loved my experience in Sydney and largely have the CEA CAPA team to thank.

What was the most nerve-racking moment and how did you overcome it?
I went sky diving!! I'm terrified of heights so this was a huge challenge for me, but I met a great group of friends who encouraged me to do it with them! We're bonded for life now.
Pros
  • Support from team
  • Beautiful weather
  • Great friends
Cons
  • UNSW dorms aren't the cleanest
Response from CEA CAPA Education Abroad

Hi Andie! Absolutely loved reviewing your feedback on studying abroad in Sydney. Thanks for taking the time to provide your highlights and recommendations.

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Hayley
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Florence: A City Full of Art, Music, History, Food, and Joy.

The decision to go abroad was a matter of two decisions. Where do I want to go and which program do I want to go through? For me personally growing up, my Italian heritage was always something that resonated with me. Whether it was making homemade sauce with my grandfather, or memorizing Italian phrases with my cousins, Italy brings nothing but fond memories to mind. Choosing Italy was definite. When looking into all the different programs my school had to offer, CEA CAPA stuck out to me. There was not a single course offered that doesn't pique my interest. When making the decision to go abroad, I had completed most of my major requirements so the fact that this program had so many interesting courses to fill my schedule was a huge benefit for me. Another great opportunity is the option to pursue an internship to expand career experience. There was not a day during my application process and time in Florence where I didn't feel supported by my CAPA advisors. I knew that with CAPA, my experience abroad would change and inspire me in a way that no other program could. With CAPA, Florence felt like a home away from home.

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Jailexie
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

2nd home in Dublin

My time abroad with CEA CAPA has to be some of the best moments of my life. Not only was the staff very welcoming and had 3 amazing excursions planned for us, but they also made real meaningful connections with us. From a welcome dinner to going to spend a weekend in the Aran Islands I felt very connected to the team and the other students studying. I met one of my now best friends in Ireland and once we got back to the States I have already planned my trip to go see her.

The program is easily able to answer questions, concerns, and try to guide you to the special parts of Dublin. This country is so beautiful and full of new experiences and an amazing culture. Whether you're looking for good nightlife, history, or just gorgeous views- Dublin really has it all and I completely recommend this location & program!

If you did this all over again, what's one thing you would change?
If I re-did this experience I definitely would utilize the free leap cards the program gave us and travel around on the dart more to small parts of Dublin just to walk around or see some views!
Pros
  • Becoming more independent
  • Culture
  • Financially not as expensive as other parts can be in the EU
Cons
  • none!
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Risa
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Ajoy!

I had such an incredible experience in Prague. I had the best experience of my life. I learned so much both in the classroom and outside of it. The teachers I had at CEA CAPA are the best teachers I have ever had. One professor was even a diplomat and taught us all so much. The CEA CAPA staff helped me and supported me through adjustment and challenges, and the community of friends I found abroad traveled with me and laughed with me over the semester we spent away from home. Prague really became a second home. Having other students in the building we lived was so much fun. By living in student housing in the middle of a residential area I truly feel that I got the best of both worlds. I found my favorite local cafes and bakeries by the time I left and I still dream about them now! I can't wait to go back one day.

What was the most nerve-racking moment and how did you overcome it?
I had an injury while I was abroad and I was very scared. I did not know how to handle it and I was in a lot of pain. Going to a hospital can be very scary even when you are in your own country and speak the language, but even more when you're alone. I used the 24-hour emergency CEA phone number and the women who answered helped me through every step of the way. She gave me good options of nearby hospitals that would speak English and had helped other students in the past. She also continued texting me throughout the night to help me as I was cared for.
Pros
  • It was a huge learning experience and taught me how to handle difficult situations
  • I felt so supported by the CEA CAPA staff
  • I got to experience health care in Prague
Cons
  • It was very scary and distressing
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Cassie
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

CEA Capa London Review

I had a wonderful time in London with CEA Capa. One of the things that I enjoyed about the program was that I felt like I had a good work to trave balance. The staff at Capa are super encouraging and willing to allow students to explore the world around them. My professors did have lots of academic rigor, but they were also readily available to give help when needed. Some growing pains happen when you study abroad, and these professors are more than willing to help you adjust. Overall, I recommend this program.

Pros
  • Amazing Professors
  • London is such a global city and offers diversity
  • London has great food
Cons
  • Be prepared for a commute: Mine was 45 mins
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Allison
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

CEA CAPA Florence was everything I needed!

I was very anxious to go abroad, but I should not have been anxious at all. Throughout my four months in Florence, Italy, CEA CAPA provided everything I needed to make sure I was always confident and comfortable. The location was amazing for the topics that I studied - art history, fashion, cinema - there was always so much to pull from and go see. I was also scared having never learned or spoken Italian before, but I never had a problem getting around and many spoke English, and the teachers were always very supportive in helping us be more open and work hard. My Italian teacher was actually my favorite teacher since she was a tour guide and somehow knew everyone in Florence! I also lived in The Social Hub in Florence, and the building had everything I needed and more - it was so beautiful and I will literally dream about going back to that rooftop bar and pool for the rest of my life. I'll also miss all of my favorite haunts that I came across during my time there and just how magical they all felt.

If you did this all over again, what's one thing you would change?
If you're struggling with your mental health while abroad, don't be afraid to reach out to program staff for help. My only regret is not asking for help earlier!
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Olivia
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

My Time in Grenoble

I studied in Grenoble for a semester and I cannot recommend it enough. I found the city and the courses I was taking to be perfect for what I was wanting to get out of my study abroad experience. My program was the French Language and Culture program, so all of my classes were in French at the B1 level. I thought the teachers were excellent and made the French immersion very accessible and were always happy to help with any questions or clarifications, and the students at the university were from all over the world, so it really made me have to use French to communicate with almost all of my classmates (I was the only American in my class, but this was not the case for other CEA CAPA students in the same program who were at different French levels) and I feel like I progressed a lot during the semester because of it. Grenoble is also a great city because it is pretty walkable and the tram system can get you pretty much anywhere in the city or the suburbs. Many places, such as restaurants, cafes, museums, the ski companies, transportation companies, etc. in Grenoble have student discounts (from what I understand this is the case in all of France). The location of Grenoble makes it easy to travel to other cities and countries at a decent price, too. I was able to travel multiple times to Switzerland and Germany because of the proximity and low cost, and while I didn't get a chance to go, Italy is also very close. If you like adventure and nature especially, I think you will be able to find many things to do in and around Grenoble, such as hiking, skiing, snowboarding, bouldering, and paddle boarding. The city also feels very safe; I never had any incidents of being in danger or anything bad happening, and neither did anyone else on my program.

What was the most unfamiliar thing you ate?
The most unfamiliar thing I ate while I was in Grenoble was a French taco. I am from South Texas, so in my mind I have a very different expectation from the word "taco" but French tacos are basically like a huge wrap or burrito with a base of white cheese sauce, a protein, and French fries, along with whatever additions you want to add, like tomatoes, peppers, different kinds of cheese, different kinds of sauces, etc. They are very good and they originated in Grenoble so it is a must-try for anyone visiting. Just don't expect it to be like actual Mexican tacos.
Pros
  • French people are very friendly (in my experience) if you make an effort to speak French
  • Big international student population
  • The city feels safe overall
Cons
  • Stores and coffeeshops always close at 7 at the latest.
  • You will only find meals at meal times, so if you want to eat at, say, 4 pm, you won't have many options.
  • Sometimes the tram breaks down or needs maintenance
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Julia
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Already Missing Florence!

I had an amazing experience studying abroad in the Fall 2023 semester in Florence, Italy through the CEA Program. The variety of course offerings, professor-student relationships, and out-of-class activities were incredible. I had the opportunity to learn Italian, meet with professors outside of class, and attend a pasta-making class through CEA! I loved the food and culture of Florence with its tight-knit community and authentic, traditional recipes. It was an experience I will never forget and I hope to return soon!

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Ivy
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

CEACAPA study abroad was amazing!!!

I loved every single day while I was studying abroad in Barcelona! CEACAPA made it such a smooth transition by helping with the visa application process, organizing pickup from the airport, placing us in housing around the city, and holding orientation meetings that helped give insight on the city so best navigate our experience. I studied in a study center with other US students which was very helpful in meeting new people to travel with. I am so thankful for all of their help and the amazing opportunity that I was given to experience new parts of the world.