Program Reviews

Choosing to study abroad was the best decision I ever made. I truly believe this is something everyone should do! TEAN made this experience unforgettable for me; we traveled to the Great Barrier Reef, explored our host cities and had an incredible team of people supporting us the whole time. If I ever needed help with anything or wanted a recommendation for a great restaurant, my advisor was super nice and always helpful! You will not regret choosing to embark on a journey like this and TEAN is a great organization to do it with!

I fell in love with Australia the second I touched down in the Airport. I could literally feel the Aussie vibe just in that airport, everyone was so happy and nice and helpful, it was such a noticeable change in pace. I am so obsessed with the lifestyle of Australia, especially the Gold Coast that I fully plan on moving back there post-grad, not a day goes by I don't think about it. I created the most amazing life day-to-day there, from sunrise beach walks, to the farmers market, to going out for food and drinks at restaurants right alongside the water, it was perfect. If you like to live an outdoorsy, fit, happy, and healthy life, would highly recommend the Gold Coast! I could not have asked for a better experience.

My experience studying abroad in Salamanca, Spain was one of the most life-changing and formative experiences of my life. Studying at one of the oldest universities in the world was definitely an amazing experience, but this program provides so much more than that. Onsight staff provide excellent support and opportunities to travel around Spain and beyond. The city is the perfect medium-sized city (I think it's great for people who are not accustomed to city living). The nightlife and cafe culture offer limitless opportunities for social engagement. I also found professional outlets that have helped me apply for graduate school, such as volunteer English second language teaching at a local school. Salamanca is the perfect place for students who might feel like other metropolitan areas aren't the right fit. My experience abroad is something that I can positively say will stay with me for the rest of my life!

I spent July in Seoul, South Korea and my experience was like no other I've had before. I met so many lovely locals and other foreign study-abroad students. One of the most interesting aspects of studying at an international school was meeting students from places I know little about and learning from them about their cultures.

There were times when our groups of foreign students attracted unwanted attention from locals in forms such as subtle picture-taking. While this was an issue a few times, it was understandable given the diversity differences between South Korea and our primarily American groups. Overall, everyone we met was super nice and accommodating to us.

I found that knowing a bit of Korean was helpful for getting around and having small conversational exchanges but it's not necessary. The classes are in English and there is lots of help from the program to get students set on the right path.

I loved the course I took which taught me more about Korean culture and wasn't too difficult, which I appreciated for a summer course. The TEAN program and HISS also set up activities and trips that helped to submerge us in the culture. These were wonderful and ensured that even if we struggled to plan our own excursions, there was something guaranteeing we got out.

I never experienced culture shock or became homesick but many students did experience this. I would advise doing research before arriving in Korea to better understand cultural differences. It helped prepare me for my arrival and softened the effect of cultural differences. This is also important for people who aren't sure if they'll feel comfortable in the culture. Looking into the cultural differences (ie. loud speaking) can help choose the best fit for places to spend more extensive periods of time.

I (uncharacteristically) did not put a lot of forethought into my decision to study abroad at Stirling University, but on that random late December night it just felt like applying for this program was what I needed to do. And—as it turned out— I really did need this experience. Everything from my incredible new friends, the field trip to see Pictish cave carvings, and the flexibility of the program that allowed me to be able to join in on folk music open sessions in pubs all around the country was exactly what I needed in my life, and I will be talking about those memories for the rest of my life.

This experience was one of the best I have ever had. I went on this trip completely alone, not sure what to expect. I was nervous but filled with excitement. Upon my arrival, I was picked up by my host family at the ISA building. My first impression was that they were very kind, but I was nervous so we did not speak much at first. I was excited to be a part of a home stay, however my first weekend there, my family went on a trip, and I was alone. It was an interesting experience adjusting to a foreign country alone, but I managed. I do wish I had gotten closer with my family however.
I met the most incredibly people and made lifelong friends of both locals and other students in the program. The excursions were fun and educational, and the trips were well planned. My only regret is that I wish I would have stayed longer! Because of this program, I am going to be returning to Spain this summer for an internship in Madrid.

Florence was the best home base! The city itself is amazing and you can do so many different things in your free time. It also allows for easy travel to other amazing places. I traveled to nine different countries in the span of my four months studying abroad. I was immersed into the culture and had experiences that I would never trade. I kissed the Blarney Stone in Ireland, white water rafted in Croatia, played blackjack in Monaco, swam in the baths in Budapest. I was able to do and see so many amazing things.

For Future Study Abroad Students:
As you embark on your university journey abroad, it's crucial to strike a balance between academic pursuits and personal enjoyment. While choosing courses, make sure to include subjects that genuinely interest you, but be mindful not to overload your schedule with exclusively major courses. Leave room for exploration and flexibility, as this will not only contribute to a more enriching academic experience but also allow you the freedom to enjoy weekends and engage in spontaneous trips.

Unlike the educational system back home, you may find that assessments are fewer in number but more demanding in terms of grading standards. Therefore, it's essential to approach your studies with diligence and a proactive mindset. Additionally, take the time to research and compile a list of places to visit and activities to experience both on and off campus. Having a well-thought-out bucket list can help you make the most of your time abroad, preventing any missed opportunities.

During your stay, time will undoubtedly fly by, and to make the most of this transformative experience, be proactive in socializing. Join clubs, attend events, and strike up conversations with fellow students in your classes. The connections you make and the experiences you share will not only contribute to a more fulfilling academic journey but will also broaden your cultural horizons.

In summary, approach your university experience abroad with a thoughtful blend of academic focus and personal exploration. Be proactive in creating a bucket list, manage your time effectively, and embrace opportunities to connect with people and immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of your host country. Studying abroad is not just about earning a degree but about creating memories that will last a lifetime. So branch off from what your used to/conformable with and go gain new experiences!

Despite COVID erupting during my semester in Granada, I am very happy with the memories I gained while being present. I did not travel outside of the country while I was in the semester because I wanted to save travel for after academics. For this reason, I spent a great deal in Granada and neighboring villages and towns which was incredible for me. I found that I had a better understanding of place and belonging because of this. Our program directors were absolutely amazing and handled the difficult circumstances with grace and compassion for all of us.

Choosing to study abroad in Milan, Italy was the best decision I have made in my life. I would highly recommend anyone that is debating to study in Milan to do so. Milan is such a beautiful city full of so much history, incredible food, and stunning sights. During my time, I studied at Universita Cattolica del Sacro Cuore. I was able to take an Italian language course as well as other unique types of classes that were a lot of fun to be apart of. The program leaders from ISA were very helpful during my time and always gave us suggestions on different places to explore, places to eat, and different events going on in the city. If anyone is debating about studying abroad in Milan, do it! I promise you will love it.