Program Reviews

Studying abroad in Pau, France was an unforgettable experience! Not only did my French language skills such as comprehension, pronunciation, articulation, and writing improve immensely, but my knowledge of the culture increased exceptionally. Pau is the perfect choice for anyone wanting to increase their language skills and also have an authentic French experience. You have the opportunity to learn in a classroom setting with amazing, dedicated professors, and also immerse yourself in the culture with program-led excursions and activities on campus and downtown. Pau is wonderfully located with some of the most popular French cities close by and the Pyrenees Mountains are only a bus ride away. This was not just an academic experience either as I discovered a lot about myself and grew my independence and problem-solving skills. I was able to travel all over with new people I met to see amazing sights and places and experience more than just one new culture. I met so many wonderful people, students, and locals, who helped create the best experience! I will always remember the memories I made and the people I met. I encourage anyone who has the opportunity to study abroad to take it. You will gain a whole new perspective on life and a whole new confidence in yourself academically and personally.

I had an amazing time studying and living in Valencia, I would definitely recommend the trip to anyone who's considering it! Valencia was small enough to still have a safe, calm atmosphere while still giving you the Europe experience (not to mention how much cheaper the city is than the bigger destinations like Madrid or Barcelona). There's plenty to do in Valencia, especially if you take the USAC windsurfing or cooking classes, but it's also so close to so many more destinations (I went to Dragonstone from Game of Thrones on one of my weekends and Barcelona on another). I loved my time in Valencia and with USAC!

This program was truly unique in the way it immersed me as a student in a small town in the south of France. Not only did I get to study at a French university and live with a local family I had many opportunities to travel around France and learn more about Europe in general. The classes significantly improved my French proficiency and extra curricular classes made it possible to make friends. It would not be possible to achieve the same level of immersion without being a citizen of the country and I am truly thankful for the opportunity.

I had such an amazing time in Verona! It was honestly one of the best experiences of my life. Verona is the perfect location as it is close to the Swiss Alps as well as just a train or bus ride away from various major cities in Italy. The support of the staff was incredible and I felt very in tune with the culture with their help. They did an amazing job at making us feel welcome. Truly an amazing experience I don’t regret as it broaden my horizons and helped me learn more about myself. Italy is definitely a country I would go back to.

I studied abroad in London through the USAC program for 6 weeks over the summer. I was so excited because USAC advertised the school as in the countryside and scenic and quiet. I didn't realize at the time that its quiet because its over an hour away from the actual part of the city students actually wanted to go. I thought that we would stay at the Met London or any other university in the city. My expectations were crushed when I arrived at the school. It took two bus rides and an even longer train ride to get there. I gave it at a chance at first, and then the school Roehampton put me in a dorm on the opposite side of campus away from everyone in my program (racism maybe?). I finally got moved after acting like a complete Karen. The welcome dinner was absolutely atrocious. I can't believe they would even call that food. Rip off chipotle really. The dorms were prison cells, so small, the heater would not work, gnats, flies, whatever else kinds of bugs crawled through the drain. I found two roaches on my floor, no elevators and had to carry two very heavy suitcases up 3 flights of stairs. No meal plan provided even though we paid over $8,000 for this program, which also did NOT include flight (rip off). The laundry machines barely worked half the time, and always stole your money. Security entered my room once WITHOUT consent while I was sleeping. Someone kept stealing food, and Roehampton did absolutely nothing about it. The education was a joke. The only good thing I can think of that came out this school was the asian man who made me vanilla ice lattes in the morning and always had a nice conversation with at the library cafe, and my advisor Dara who always reached out.

Studying at Maastricht University is a great experience everyone should consider. Maastricht is small and safe, and has a wonderful student atmosphere with an adequate social scene and beautiful architecture. Maastricht is also centrally located, making it easy to travel to all across Europe. The classes are small in size and the professors are knowledgeable and fair. There were not many negatives during my trip. The housing situation leaves room for improvement, but overall, my experience was very positive.

The professors were amazing; my Spanish improved so much in so little time. The entire program became really close, and I made two really great friends who I know will be lifelong. I spent my mornings in engaging and fun classes, then would spend my afternoons studying in cafes or the beach (or just hanging out with friends). In evenings, we would all surf together, and my roommates and I would often get pizza and watch the sunset together on the beach. The location is beautiful, and I always felt safe walking around. Absolutely loved it.

It has been one semester since I did my winter travel abroad to Cuba and I miss it so much! My experience there was wonderful and I am constantly using something I learned, whether it is how I'm making my coffee these days or my global perspective on current events. USAC made it so easy. Being a non-Spanish speaker, I was realistically afraid. Yet, the Cuban people welcomed me and my poor attempts at Spanish. My favorite part was walking and exploring neighborhoods and restaurants. I felt very safe there. USAC arranged an abundance of activities for us including rides in classic cars, a Cuban ballet and museum visits. I learned so much. I regret not staying longer. I dream of one day returning to La Habana!

Studying abroad in San Sebastián, Spain was an unforgettable experience. The city's stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine made every day an adventure. The warm and welcoming locals, combined with excellent academic programs, provided a perfect blend of education and cultural immersion. I loved exploring the historic Old Town, indulging in pintxos, and learning Spanish in such a beautiful setting. San Sebastián's unique charm and the friendships I made there will stay with me forever.

I loved this program! The program director was super supportive and helpful and the professors were also great. There is a lot to explore and do in Heredia and beyond. Classes kept me busy, but I still had time to explore and travel around Costa Rica during the weekends. If you are interested in increasing your confidence in Spanish or in Medical terminology in Spanish, I 100% recommend that you participate in this program. You will enjoy every second of it. Plus my Spanish has improved a ton since being here!