WorldStrides Reviews

Before coming to Korea, I was a picky eater. However, given a unique situation and a positive mindset towards new experiences, I tried new foods and enjoyed eating seafood for the first time.
If you're unsure about studying abroad in Korea, you should go for it and enjoy the experience of being in a new country. I explored a new culture and ate fresh foods I would never find in the US for a lower price. I recommend checking out night markets, new districts, and social media to find hidden restaurants serving unique foods. Overall, this program has provided me with the opportunity to discover new things and given me an experience that I will never forget.

Studying abroad was truly the best experience of my life, and I would recommend it to absolutely anyone. Going into it, I was terrified—traveling to a foreign country alone without knowing anyone felt overwhelming. But taking that leap paid off in ways I never imagined. This experience gave me so much confidence in myself and a deep trust in my own abilities. I not only made lifelong friends and unforgettable memories, but I also left with a stronger, more fulfilling relationship with myself. Being immersed in different cultures firsthand is the best way to gain perspective, knowledge, and personal growth. A huge part of what made this experience so incredible was the support from ISA. From the very beginning, they provided guidance and reassurance, making the transition so much easier. I always felt safe knowing that if I ever needed help, I could rely on them. Their support allowed me to focus on enjoying my time abroad and truly making the most of every moment.

If you're on the fence about studying abroad—do it. It’s scary at first, but it’s an adventure that will change your life in the best possible way!

Going to J.F. Oberlin University was incredible. I had an amazing time. Classes were interesting and engaging, and the social scene was great. Something to note is that it is easier to join clubs and activities in the spring semester, as that’s the beginning of the school year in Japan. One thing I really liked about J.F. Oberlin was that it was located in Machida, which was a little calmer than central Tokyo, but still close enough to make frequent day trips into Tokyo. Machida is definitely a less touristy place than most big Tokyo sights, but the calmness of it really helped me feel like I wasn’t just living in Japan as a tourist, but that I was living in a place where other people lived their day-to-day lives.

I really enjoyed all the cultural outings that TEAN put together. However, there was a slight issue with communication with TEAN while in Japan. If you’re someone who suspects that you might need quite a bit of extra support, this may not be an ideal program. But for those who are very independent, this may work great for you. Or, if you’re a really independent person, direct exchange might actually be a good way to go.

I went to UC for Forestry, as the school is well known for the program, and I am so glad I did. The classes were very interesting, and I felt completely welcomed as an international student, as many professors accommodated for lack of prior knowledge of the area by taking time with me to help me understand the land I was now living in. As for the program, I was able to meet some great people who have already moved into the status of life-long friends. I was able to go all around the South Island and see some of the most beautiful sights in the world, and some were already included in the program. Whether it was boating on the Milford Sound or sea-kayaking with dolphins and penguins, my experience was nothing less than extraordinary. Our advisor was super helpful and provided us with great support and recommendations as we went through the semester. I had the time of my life, and I would recommend it to anyone!

My experience in Singapore was absolutely amazing! Singapore is a beautiful, clean, safe country that was so much fun to explore. Everyone I met there was so nice and welcoming, and I never wanted to leave. Getting to study at SMU was especially great, because the location of the school is so central and conveniently located. Not only that, but the students have so much passion and excitement for their school, that even as an exchange student I felt welcomed and like a real, valuable member of the SMU community.

Plus, Singapore offers an amazing chance to explore surrounding countries in Southeast Asia! I got to visit so many countries that I never would have had a chance to visit otherwise in my life, and I am so grateful to have been able to experience so many unique and diverse cultures. I definitely recommend this program to anyone looking to get out of their comfort zone and try something new!

I loved studying abroad in Valencia! It’s a great city for someone looking for a vibrant, mid-sized city—not as big as Barcelona or Madrid, but still full of life. Valencia has a huge student population, beautiful access to the sea, and an incredible social and cultural scene that’s unlike anywhere else I’ve been.

I highly recommend going with ISA. From pre-departure support to the in-country staff, excursions, housing, and university options, my experience with ISA was excellent. I was placed in a beautiful top-floor apartment with a large terrace overlooking the city. I had the best roommates and I think ISA was intentional in matching up roommates when it came to homestay pairs or apartments which I know we all appreciated! ISA local staff make an effort to know the students. They took us out for not only our excursions but also typical Spanish meals and taught us about the culture. I can't imagine going with another program.

Singapore captivated me completely! I wouldn't change a single aspect of my experience there. The convenience of traveling to neighboring Asian countries was one of the unexpected highlights, allowing me to explore the region with ease. I was constantly impressed by Singapore's exceptional cleanliness and security, which created an environment where I could fully enjoy my passion for cycling - even late at night without any safety concerns. These four months were truly the most transformative period of my life so far. The connections I formed and the experiences I shared have left an indelible mark on me. While I deeply miss the friends who became like family during my time abroad, I carry our memories close to my heart and remain confident that our paths will cross again someday. Singapore wasn't just a destination - it became a second home that I'll always cherish.

Living in Japan truly changed my entire outlook on life. Before studying abroad in Tokyo, I had never left the United States, so to travel 7000 miles away from home was a huge leap of faith. However, I built a second home in Japan with my dorm, friends, teammates, and classmates. Being immersed in my culture and meeting my family there was incredibly rewarding, and I grew so much as a person and a student. Studying abroad takes you out of your comfort zone and pushes you to take chances you never would have at home. Japan is so safe, forgiving, and welcoming, I'm so glad I chose to study there!

Studying abroad in Thailand with TEAN was truly a life-changing experience that I will cherish forever. It pushed me far out of my comfort zone and helped me grow in ways I never imagined. Living in a completely different culture made me more adaptable, and it opened my eyes to the beauty of diversity. I not only gained valuable academic knowledge but also learned so much about myself and the world around me.

As a friend and daughter, I became more patient, understanding, and empathetic after interacting with people from all over the world. I learned how to embrace differences, listen more attentively, and create meaningful connections. I became a better listener, which made me appreciate the relationships I have with my friends and family even more.

This journey also sparked my love for travel. I now feel more confident and excited about exploring new places, trying new things, and immersing myself in unfamiliar environments. I now have a greater sense of independence and self-assurance that I can take with me throughout my life.

Academically, my experience in Thailand motivated me to strive for excellence in my studies. I realized the importance of education, especially when it comes to understanding the world from a global perspective. I became more focused, driven, and determined to make the most out of my academic opportunities.

Most importantly, studying abroad with TEAN in Thailand transformed me into a more worldly and open-minded individual. I came back home with a deeper understanding of global issues and the unique perspectives of people around the world. It truly changed my life in ways that go beyond what words can express, and I will forever be thankful for this incredible experience. If you ever have the chance, I highly recommend studying abroad with TEAN in Thailand – it’s an experience you will never forget.

I had such a great time studying in Barcelona, Spain with ISA for the Fall 2024 semester! The ISA staff was so great and helpful throughout the experience and provided me with so many wonderful opportunities and activities to get to know the city. I played in the study abroad soccer league as well as took Latino dance classes through ISA. Living in a homestay also helped me improve my Spanish and challenge myself! Throughout my semester, I became so much more independent and confident. This was truly one of the greatest experiences of my life!