Program Reviews

I participated in the Lüneburg Germany USAC program from the fall of 2023 to the early spring of 2024. I was originally hesitant about going abroad alone for so much time. I was used to traveling but never really lived abroad. I was finally convinced by my family and professors to go, and it was amazing. Although I had a hybrid program as part of my home university I was able to fully experience the USAC program. Residing with a host family I was able to practice and experience German tradition and everyday culture to the largest extent. Taking courses on Leuphana's main German campus allowed me to meet local students from the city as well as from all around Germany. From locals to students, to professors, I met a wide array of individuals that enhanced my experience and introduced me to great opportunities and new findings. The program actively gave many opportunities to experience German culture, and visit great locations such as Berlin, Hamburg, and Lübeck! With a good work-life balance, I was able to experience German culture and travel far and wide across Germany and Europe. Geographical location helps a lot! I was able to spend a total of 8 months in Germany and ultimately truly fell in love with the food, culture, and Lüneburg. It is a program I fully recommend and advise for students. USAC does its best to provide its students with the best opportunities in internships, student events, German language learning, and travel.
Not to mention the great USAC staff and director! They were always attentive to help with every need and assisted in the whole process from the bureaucratic paperwork down to everyday life and bike options; which truly made it a better experience. It is a program that you get what you put in, it's all there but you have to go for it. Overall a wonderful experience that I am glad I took and would take again if I could.

During fall 2023 to currently spring 2024, I studied abroad in Seoul, South Korea. It was one of the best decisions I ever made in terms of self-growth. Coming from a small town with little cultural diversity, Seoul helped me to broaden my perspective and teach me more about being independent. I learned to navigate cost differences, transportation, cultural and linguistical differences, as well as tackling challenging coursework at Yonsei University. Learning the language and meeting new people led me to take more opportunities to expand on my hobbies and interests. I joined multiple clubs at Yonsei and took group trips to places like Ansan Mountain and Namsan Tower in Seoul and other cities such as Daegu and Jeonju. Before coming to Korea, I was intimidated by being a student living alone in a foreign country, however, my university and program helped me to adjust and feel welcome. From my experience, not only did my language acquisition improve as well as my communication and social skills, but I also learned more about being open-minded and compassionate to everyone I meet. I am very grateful to have had a year in. South Korea to fully immerse myself in the culture and environment and I plan to use these skills as I further my education back in the United States.

I studied abroad in Alicante, Spain for the summer of 2023, and went for sessions one and two. Being in Spain was an amazing life experience. I love that I finally have gone to Europe, and see the different ways that people live there than the people that live in the US. It was eye opening to see the cultural differences in Europe and get used to their culture. There are so many different festivities that they do in Spain, and it was so much fun learning about their festivals. If you are doing session one or two, I recommend going for session one. There are a lot more festivals that happen in June, and the weather is less hot in June than in July. There is the Hogueras, and then there is a full week of fireworks on the beach. There are multiple parades and events full of Spain’s special foods. The streets are always full of people, and you can walk everywhere. For example, you can walk to the store, to the beach, and to restaurants. They also have multiple availability of public transportation. You can take a taxi, the bus, or even the subway, by using the transportation card that you are given within the program. The subway can take you to many other cities that are near Alicante. For instance, it can take you to Altea, Benidorm, El Campello, Costa Blanca, La Villa Joiosa, La Isleta, Sangueta and many more. The subway also takes you to their university, which is a gorgeous, huge campus. They have a library, computer lab, a nice café, etc... Some of the lifestyle that is different in Spain is that you have to pay for water in restaurants. Whenever the servers ask if you want bread before bringing out dinner, you also have to pay for that bread. It is also not usual to give the servers tips. Usually, people bring their own bags when grocery shopping, and if you don’t bring one, then you have to pay a few cents for each bag you get. Their breakfast is usually very light, and their dinners are very late, usually around 11:00 is their dinner time. A fun class that I recommend is that you join sailing. You will be out in the ocean about 3-4 times a week and the instructor will teach you how to put up and down the sail. The instructor is cool and will show you how to change the direction of the boat, let you sail the boat on your own, and let you jump in the ocean, which he calls a “bath”. The water can be unpredictable so every day it is different, but the instructor tells stories that are funny and makes sailing entertaining. Alicante is a safe, and wonderful place to be, and it will forever be my second home!!

I've heard a lot about the experience of studying abroad. They say it introduces you to new people, new places, and new languages. It immerses you in another culture, allowing you to experience it firsthand rather than as a mere spectator. It gifts you with new friends, making it even harder to leave when the time comes to return home. In short, it changes your life. And it's all true. I left with some apprehension but a strong desire to see the world, and I returned home with a suitcase full of unforgettable experiences and memories.

During the four months I spent in Uruguay, I had the opportunity to study at ORT University in Montevideo. I met accommodating and friendly professors who never made me feel out of place or inadequate, even though English is not my native language. During my stay in Montevideo, I was hosted by a very kind lady who welcomed me into her home and made me feel at home. She spoiled me by preparing a different dish for me every day, allowing me to try many Uruguayan recipes.

I was able to travel and see wonderful new places, but the most beautiful thing I brought home were the bonds I formed during this experience. I met fellow travelers who became like family to me during these unforgettable months.

Valencia was the most incredible place to spend my summer the sophomore year of undergrad! Although quite warm, it is the best location right on the Mediterranean shore, and the city is the best combination of old, historic, European cities, but also plenty of modern, urbanized city. It had everything I was looking for and UPV was such a great community to be a part of! The support and community through USAC was also exceptional. I made friends and connections I will hold onto for years. Additionally, my host family was exceptional, and living three blocks off the beach could not have been more convenient! Valencia is a hidden gem of Spain, and the USAC program located there is something anyone would be lucky to experience!

The USAC Program at Korea University truly transformed my journey as a media student. Because of it's academic opportunities and cultural immersion, it not only enriched my academic growth but also broadened my horizons in ways I never imagined. Coming from a small town, the busy city of Seoul and Korea's culture was a contrast but helped in expanding my understanding of the world and exposing me to new perspectives.

Having previously studied in Korea, I had certain expectations, but the USAC Program exceeded them all. The availability of great academics and cultural experiences created a diverse learning environment that very fulfilling. From experiencing classroom discussions and learning from other students to exploring the busy streets of Seoul, every moment was an opportunity for personal and professional development.

Overall, I highly recommend the USAC Program at Korea University for those seeking a difference from their regular educational experience. It's not just about earning credits; it's about experiencing a journey of self-discovery, learning a new language and culture, and learning from amazing professors. If you're ready to expand your horizons and unlock some new amazing opportunities, this program is the perfect choice for you.

I did so many things that I had never dreamed of doing before. Had windsurfing classes on the Mediterranean, tried new foods, learned Spanish dances, met people from around the world, and got opportunities to travel to so many countries. However, throughout all of these experiences, I never once felt unsafe. I also took many Erasmus trips and my organization helped me prepare for those as well. This organization helps you plan, gives you advice, and makes you feel prepared to take on anything you want!

When deciding to study abroad I was excited and nervous to see how I would grow as an individual and adapt to a new life oceans away from my home. I grew up in a rural town and even attend college in a rural town so the opportunity to study abroad in Valencia, Spain was unlike anything I had known before. Luckily when I arrived in Spain, I was quick to adjust to my new lifestyle thanks to the kindness of my host institution and the helpfulness of my program staff. Valencia is amazing and I would not trade my experience for the world! The breathtaking beaches, beautiful city, and delicious food are just three of the reasons why Valencia should be at the top of your list!

Studying abroad in the Basque Country of Spain was an enriching experience that surpassed all my expectations. Immersed in vibrant culture, I explored festivals, indulged in local cuisine, and engaged in academia that offered unique insights. The region's breathtaking landscapes provided the perfect backdrop for adventure, while interactions with locals and fellow students enriched my global perspective. Overall, it was a transformative journey that I'd highly recommend to anyone seeking an unforgettable study abroad experience.

The study abroad program in Alicante with USAC is the best program a student could ask for! The first thing you will notice is how amazing and supportive the staff are at this university! Our resident directors were there for anything we needed. They were extremely supportive, helpful, and kind. The professors are also top-tier at this university. They were understanding of our levels and were able to meet us where we were, while also pushing us academically so that we would improve in our skills. I also believe that the courses offered had a good variety and something to cater to every student! Life in Alicante is also amazing! You get to live right on the Mediterranean Sea right in the heart of the city. There are so many fun things to do for students, like museums, cultural sights, amazing restaurants, going to the beach, and so much more! You are surrounded by the culture and the language in this city. Not only will your language skills improve, but you will learn so much about this beautiful country. You could not get a better study abroad program than this!