WorldStrides Reviews

Not to be dramatic, but my study abroad experience in Seville, Spain is all I ever talk and think about. I am that person who always references their time studying abroad whenever I get the chance to do so. Seville was special to me because I was already pretty familiar with the culture of southern Spain from having taken Spanish classes in the past. I made so many friends in my program and made so many connections and had an absolutely unforgettable time.

I lived with a host family which was extremely helpful in practicing the language and learning the culture. Living in the on-campus housing would've been a convenient choice, but I wanted to experience life abroad in the most authentic ways possible. I miss my host mom's cooking! Forcing yourself to be immersed in the culture & language is a great way to fully appreciate it.

One of the most challenging aspects of going abroad was the traveling in general. I made it a point to "rehearse" traveling by making checklists, fitting things into my suitcase, going through security, deciding what would go into my carry-on, etc. One of the most important things I learned is to pack a change of clothes in your carry-on luggage in case of flight delays or cancellations.

One negative thing I have to say is surrounding culture shock. This is a common occurrence and I was in no way exempt! Program managers can warn you, but until you get there and experience it yourself, you find that there's really no way out but through. One of the most pertinent examples of culture shock I experienced was in customer service related scenarios. Spaniards don't waste time saying "hi, how are you?" at restaurants or stores. Everything is very to-the-point and straightforward. Asking how someone is is reserved for close personal relationships only!

I will spend forever trying to maintain the happiness and carefreeness I experienced during my study abroad experience. I learned so much more than I thought I would, about myself and the world, as well as practicing speaking Spanish. If someone ever mentions going abroad to me, I try to convince them to do it because it was the best time of my entire life.

I made so many new friends and learned so much about the Italian culture. My assigned roommates were amazing and we got along so well together. The staff was very supportive and eager to provide great recommendations to us. I felt very safe in the neighborhood and enjoyed being around lots of people my age. The food was absolutely incredible and Rome was the best city to explore, shop, eat, drink, and have fun! The only downfall was that our apartment had a mold issue and the immediate area around my apartment was pretty dirty.

Studying abroad through ISA was the greatest thing to happen to me.
Florence is a magical city. Incredible food, so much history easy access to travel around Europe- I cannot imagine a better place to have spent my four months abroad. I learned so much about other cultures and discovered so much about myself during my time there. I cannot recommend this place and program enough.
What truly made this experience unforgettable was the people I met. I arrived knowing no one, and by the time I left, I had found my best friends in the world. The professors at FUA inspired and challenged me to expand my perspective. And the staff along the way made my experience so seamless. The only downside to the experience was having to leave. Florence will always hold a special place in my heart!

Full immersion was my goal when I chose to study abroad in Granada, Spain. The ISA program gave me all the tools to make that a reality. I stayed with an incredibly kind, generous, and eye-opening host family within a two minute walk from the school building where I had classes. I was able to feel like a full Spaniard each and every day. And if I saw any ISA program directors somewhere in town, they always greeted me with friendship and genuinely cared how I was getting on. Overall, I had an unforgettable experience.

I studied abroad in 2022. It was the best experience of my life and part of that is thanks to ISA! I was paired with the best roommates in a charming, modern apartment. Studying abroad will allow you to meet such unique people and truly learn more about yourself in the process of learning the culture. Florence had something for everyone, whether it be the art, food, history, or nightlife. The city is walkable, so you never have to worry about finding a taxi! If you are thinking about studying abroad, DO IT! You will not regret it!

From the moment I arrived to the moment I left, I had to pinch myself. I was driven from the airport to my apartment which was on the beautiful square of Piazza Della Signoria. From here, I attended an informative orientation and met my peers who quickly became lifelong friends. We enjoyed the excursions offered through ISA as well as several self-planned trips. Beyond these leisurely activities, I gained invaluable knowledge at FUA. I felt truly immersed into the Italian culture. I would recommend it anyone!

Studying abroad in Sydney, Australia through TEAN was the best decision/experience of my life! Sydney is the most perfect city to study in, combined with the beaches, city, art, history, and awesome people. I enjoyed going to classes surrounded with students from all around the world which left me with friends from everywhere. The program also included several opportunities to explore Sydney and surrounding areas included in the cost! My program leader, Laura, always supported us and was there for us when we needed. I enjoyed going to surf lessons organised by the program, as well as a personal tour of the Opera house. There is no other place I could have imagined to study abroad, and I am so thankful I had the support from TEAN!

ISA provided many excursions and accommodations that made the experience amazing. Florence is an amazing place it felt like a dream. My favorite part was my roomates and I trip to Amalfi which again was very student friendly. I would love to go back I even made so many friends that live there that I would love to see again. I also gained so much knowledge about another culture and felt like I was fully immersed. School was amazing too. Classes were great and teachers were very hands on and gave great recommendations for things around the city!

Made so many friends that still keep in contact with me, along with long lasting cultural knowledge that was beautiful to watch and learn. I ache to go back to Korea every day, and I am so glad I chose Korea for my study abroad adventure. The food, clothing, and social areas were amazing, and I could safely walk by myself if I got home a little late! I’ve never felt safer than I did in Korea, and I felt like I truly belonged in the community I was apart of. The school spirit was awesome too, and the festival culture was so exciting to experience!!!!! 10/10 would recommend.

I had a great time getting a taste of a new environment. Being on the opposite side of the world comes with diverse cultures, dialects, and cuisine. I was able to experience life from a viewpoint different from my home and I discovered different parts of me. Melbourne has so many events going on during the day and night, truly feels like the city never sleeps. It is perfect for whatever your hopes and desires!