Program Reviews

My semester in Granada was an experience that I will never forget. The program itself was thoughtfully designed and well-organized. The planned excursions were engaging and and gave me the chance to explore Granada and integrate myself with the city. From walking through the Alhambra to discovering smaller neighborhoods and local markets, I was constantly in awe of the architecture and the history that shrouds every inch of the city. The people also made the experience even better. The ISA Granada staff: Marisa, Lorena, and Ángel were so warm, welcoming, and genuinely passionate about the city. Their energy was infectious and they created a supportive environment that made it that much easier to adjust to living in Granada. I also formed lasting friendships with both American and international peers in the program. We supported each other, learned together, and shared so many memorable experiences. Overall, my semester in Granada was a life-changing experience. I left not only with stronger Spanish skills, but also with unforgettable memories, meaningful friendships, and a deep appreciation for the history, culture, and people of the city. I would recommend ISA Abroad in Granada to anyone looking for cultural immersion in a gem of a city.

Staying with a host family in Valencia was one of the most immersive and rewarding experiences I have ever had. From the very first day, I felt welcomed into their home not just as a guest, but as part of the family. This made all the difference in how I experienced Spanish culture—rather than observing it from the outside, I was able to live it day by day. The warmth of my host family, their traditions, and even the small details of daily life opened my eyes to a new way of connecting with people and a culture that was both familiar in some ways and completely new in others.

One of the greatest advantages of living with a host family was the language immersion. While I had studied Spanish before, nothing compares to the challenge and reward of speaking it constantly in real-life situations. From breakfast conversations at the kitchen table to late-night chats about Spanish customs, I found myself improving not just in vocabulary, but also in confidence. My host family was patient and encouraging, helping me navigate moments when I stumbled over words and celebrating my progress when I managed to express myself more naturally. This daily practice gave me a comfort with the language that I don’t think I could have achieved in a classroom alone.

Weekends in Valencia brought another layer of adventure. The city itself is vibrant and full of history, but I also took advantage of the opportunity to explore beyond its borders. Solo travel became an unexpected highlight of my time in Spain. At first, the thought of traveling alone felt a little intimidating, but it quickly became one of the most empowering parts of the experience. I learned how to navigate new cities, plan my own itineraries, and rely on myself in unfamiliar situations. Whether it was wandering the narrow streets of Seville, marveling at the architecture in Barcelona, or tasting regional specialties in smaller towns, each trip gave me a deeper appreciation for the diversity of Spain’s culture and landscapes.

Living in Valencia also gave me the chance to connect with local traditions on a personal level. Festivals, food, and family routines all became part of my daily rhythm. I discovered how meals are more than just eating—they’re about connection, sharing stories, and taking time to be together. I joined in on local celebrations, experienced the lively energy of Spanish music and dance, and even learned the subtle cultural gestures that make conversations feel authentic. These moments helped me see Spain not just as a place to visit, but as a culture to belong to, even if only temporarily.

Looking back, I can honestly say this experience was a 10/10. It combined the joy of travel with the depth of cultural immersion, while also teaching me about independence, adaptability, and the value of human connection. I would absolutely do it again—and in fact, I can’t wait for the opportunity to return. Staying with a host family in Valencia didn’t just give me memories; it gave me a new perspective on travel, language, and community.

Studying abroad in Florence was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. The city itself feels like a living museum, filled with art, history and culture around every corner, but it also became a place I could call home. The program provided a perfect balance between academics and exploration, giving me the opportunity to learn in the classroom and then providing fun traveling oppurtunities allowing those lessons come alive in the streets, museums, and architecture of Florence and throughout Italy

The summer that I spent in Valencia was one of the most rewarding summers that I have ever had. Not only did it allow me to finish my Spanish minor; which I would not have been able to do at my home university. But Valencia also allowed me to grow as a person and become more confident with who I am. I made lifelong friends that I know I will always have a special bond with and got to experience another culture first hand. I think that world strides does an amazing job at providing the right amount of activities so that you can experience Spain but you still have time to yourself to choose what you want to do. I also always felt supported and safe knowing that there was amazing staff that would always be able to help me.

My choice to study abroad in London alone was bold, but it became the best decision I’ve ever made. The 5 months I spent there are some of the most meaningful and exciting of my life. Before this, I had never flown internationally or navigated a major city, but the experience gave me the chance to build those skills and grow in confidence. While abroad, I got the opportunity to visit 7 other countries and 14 different English towns. In London, I formed lifelong friendships, explored new places, and immersed myself in diverse cultures.

World Strides was always just a phone call away, whether I needed help with my schedule, my flat, or even finding a doctor. Yet, they also gave us the independence to truly discover the city for ourselves. Some of my favorite memories came from the program’s excursions across England, where I met even more study students and forged lasting bonds.

Although my university wasn’t as central as I had expected, its beautiful campus became a refreshing escape from the bustle of the city. Adjusting to the new class structures was challenging, and a few of my professors were difficult to work with at times, but it was a learning experience. As a young journalist, my time there offered remarkable résumé-building experiences, including sitting in on a Parliament session for a story and learning directly from BBC employees. I also built strong friendships with my flatmates, most of whom were full-time students, and enjoyed having my own room and bathroom while sharing a kitchen.

London challenged me at times, but it remains my favorite place in the world. From its theatre scene and museums to its cuisine, landscapes, and kind people, the city became my second home. Through this experience, I discovered a part of myself I didn’t even know existed and built connections with people who truly became my family. My gratitude for this opportunity is beyond words, and I cannot wait to return to London Town again.

TEAN was the perfect choice for my first time leaving the country. They made the entire process smooth and guided you along the way on zoom for applying for a visa and registering in courses. It made the entire process stress free--I couldn't recommend them enough!

My time in Korea was spent traveling every weekend, and I really feel like I got the most out of my 4.5 months there and in turn became extremely confident planning trips. Both program coordinators Kakao talk IDs' were available, and they were always available to give recommendations and would respond fast. The on-campus housing in the Anam international dorm was clean and had updated facilities. The downstairs also had a kitchen you could store food in. As for academics, my teachers were very kind. I would recommend going to office hours for any non Korean courses you take because it makes understanding the grading easier. They were always willing to work with me!

During the spring Semester of 2024, I got the chance to study abroad with ISA in Cusco, Peru. During my time there, I stayed with a host family in their apartment. My host family only knew Spanish, so I was lucky enough to get to practice my Spanish speaking skills with them.

I also met my best friend in Cusco and became close with their host family. Because I got to get to know all these people and me and my friend were both heritage speakers we got to have a very authentic experience.

Despite Latin America being known as dangerous, I never felt or faced any danger when in Cusco.

The program was structured very well. Every day (except the weekend) we got to go to two classes, and then in the afternoons, we got to be independent and roam around the city to explore stuff on our own.

In addition, there were also days where our ISA professors would take us on field trips. For example, one of our professors (professor alberto) took us to many different places, such as Sacsayhuaman and San Pedro market.

In addition, the program also took us to Machu Picchu and Madre de Dios (a section of the Amazon rainforest)
For spring break me and my friend also got to travel independently to Lima and Paracas.

Although I studied abroad alone, from day one, WorldStrides made me feel so accommodated! The staff genuinely cared and knew my name before we had even met in person. The excursions were so worthwhile, and were oriented around activities that were genuinely exciting for college students. This included a surfing lesson, paella cooking class, included tickets to the most famous art museums, and so much more! If I could do this whole experience over, I would not change a thing (except stay longer :))

I cannot rave about the experience that I had with ISA enough! I went with my best friend, and it allowed us to gain a whole realm of experiences and opportunities while we were making unique memories that will last a lifetime. We stayed with a host mom, Inma, who truly made us feel right at home. She loved and cared for us like we were her own children, offering to help us with whatever we needed, whether it was a ride to/from the airport, flamenco lessons, or assistance with my Spanish homework assignment - she was always there. I cannot express how much I miss Sevilla.

I went to Rome in the Spring of 2024 and it was an unreal experience. My professors were super helpful and I learned so much in my classrooms as they were smaller. I also travelled to 11 countries on the weekends. From skiing in the alps, to the desert in Morocco. It was amazing to see all the nature and architecture that the world has to offer. The Italian people were super friendly and the food was the best I ever had. Rome has a special place in my heart for life. I highly reccommend this experience to everyone!