Program Reviews

This experience was one of the best experiences I have had in my life and being months removed from the program, I still find myself reflecting on the memories. I went in without knowing one person and came out with very good friends from my roommates to the others on the trip. The faculty at the University it self were great and everyone involved with USAC and the process here at home and there, physically in Alicante were friendly and informative. It has inspired me to travel more in the future and learning how to live on my own, experiencing the beach, playing soccer with the locals, and going from historical sight to historical sight and shop to shop/restaurant to restaurant was one to never forget!

My semester in Montevideo was everything I could’ve hoped for and more! Most importantly, the program and staff are incredible. The teachers and program leaders are helpful, friendly and fun and make a great support system as students navigate living in a different country. More so, Montevideo has a small city feel, a laid back and friendly culture, but plenty of opportunities for fun activities, new hobbies and meeting new people. Lastly, Montevideo provides plenty of opportunities to explore surrounding areas, with Brazil, Argentina and Chile all in reach. I wouldn't change a thing if I could do it over again, and I’m so grateful for the opportunity to be part of such an amazing program.

I had the most incredible time studying at the University of St. Andrews in Scotland for a semester! If you are on the fence about applying for this program, I would 100% encourage you to go for it! I grew so much, learned a ton, and had so many amazing experiences! The town of St. Andrews is everything you want in a college town; it is very walkable, has lots going on, and is located right on the coast. I loved living there and getting to explore Scotland and its rich culture! The university itself has top-tier academics, and my classes and professors were fascinating. There are also tons of societies and events that I was able to participate in, and everyone was very welcoming! I made wonderful friends and had a blast. I also had the opportunity to travel to other European countries while I was abroad, allowing my love of travel to blossom and my confidence to grow. USAC was a huge help with application and predeparture logistics, and it was nice to be in the USAC program with other aboard students, as we quickly became friends and a support system to each other. I am so grateful for my experience at St. Andrews; I just wish I could do it all over again!

Studying abroad will not only be unforgettable, but it has shaped a change in my life that I will never not be grateful for. Within my experience, I was completely immersed in the culture as I had chosen to stay with a host family. Aside from my family, I attended a campus that was historic to the area of Bilbao where my program studied, so everyday I was able to experience the townspeople and even mingle with them on my own terms, creating life-long friendships. This was my first time going anywhere outside of the United States, expanding my view in the world and assuring that the fears I once had before leaving, were only there because of the vast changes that have been made in my life since. These changes were only for the better though. I have had dreams of traveling since I was young, and as a surfer it meant the world to me to get to surf outside of the USA. Since studying in Bilbao I have made that dream come true. I feel like I have conquered what I thought was impossible way before I expected to be able to, which taught me to never stop striving for my goals because you never know how things will work out for you, but you can trust that everything will. I lived in Gexto, a beach town outside of the city Bilbao. Here in the north of Spain, it was challenging because of the Basque language being so popular aside from Spanish that people speak due to the region they’re from and born in. This taught me to be open minded to learning the differences of peoples culture and not just basing them off of which continent they came from. I learned the appreciation to see everyone in a more unique light, and that there can also be similarities found in people no matter where we come from. It also taught me a lot about my home country and how the rest of the world views us. Most importantly I learned a deeper sense of gratitude for where I come from and the place I belong to. I will always cherish that Spain was once a home but now apart of my life forever.

During my time in the Czech republic through the USAC program, I got to build great connections with my peers and had great classes on a range of topics. I got to learn about political history the transition of life during communism and the transition to communism. I really enjoyed my teachers they taught me skills that I never thought I could learn in an academic environment Life outside of school was really fun and made a huge impact on my self-confidence, making me a better overall person and a better learner

I loved being in France. I met many people that I still am in contact with. I loved getting to experience the culture, travel around the country, and learn the language. I went to Pau to study Forestry in France. The excursions to nearby areas were always very enjoyable. We tried amazing food, saw awe-inspiring sights, and met people I don't think I could have met anywhere else. The local sights, sounds, and senses left me with a deep feeling of desire to experience them again. After the program, I had the opportunity to do some solo exploring through France and Ireland.

I can honestly say studying abroad in Chiang Mai, Thailand, changed my life. The Thai people were incredibly accepting and made me feel so comfortable and at home in their country. I loved the food for several reasons. Meals were accessible and affordable; not to mention absolutely delicious. The program staff were really helpful, and I loved getting to know the Thai buddies, who helped answer silly questions, guide us through daily life, and help us feel emersed in the culture. 10/10 would recommend

Prior to entering the program in Alicante, Spain, I had no desire to study abroad. I am a homebody through and through...my university is 10 minutes from my hometown and I go home to visit my mom and sister every weekend. Studying abroad was required for my major, meaning I needed to choose a program if I wanted to graduate on time. My Spanish professor recommended the Alicante program, and I just went with it. I was so nervous to move away from home and start my life in Alicante, but looking back on things, I wish I could have told myself that it would be okay! Since moving to Alicante, my Spanish knowledge and conversational skills have improved more than I could have ever imagined. I have met some of the greatest friends from all around the world. I have made memories that will last a lifetime. The staff within the Alicante program has been extremely helpful with fostering all of these amazing experiences. The growth I have experienced within this program was unexpected to say the least, but I am so glad I had this opportunity!

Studying abroad with USAC was a last minute decision and I'm so glad that I made it. The program itself was affordable and booked my flights for me and everything --- staying in constant communication. Once in Thailand, I was blown away by the culture and people (from the program itself and Thai community members). I remain close with several of the people that I met throughout my semester. It reignited my passion for international travel and allowed me to find myself in a way that I couldn't do at home!

My experience studying abroad with USAC was nothing short of an amazing time. They supported students academically and personally, as well as providing safety resources and tips. I feel as though the experiences and knowledge I gained from my study abroad experience are priceless, and I would recommend anyone who wants to seek new perspectives to study abroad with USAC. Along with my academic courses, my classmates and I were offered Cuban Salsa classes, as well as other extracurricular activities and excursions.