Program Reviews

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.

From the Patagonias, to the Atacama desert, to the rainforest, I knew coming to Chile that there would be so much to offer. What I did not expect, however, was how much my global perspective on world politics would grow. Chile's intense political history and vibrant and active political culture today were my favorite part of living in Santiago. Studying in the Fall semester, I met with locals, attended the "independence" celebration, met with political leaders, and travelled during a beautiful time of the year. I came to Chile with no background in Spanish, but found that the community of young people was eager to engage in language exchange. Never having travelled to South America, I deconstructed biases and understood Chile, Peru, and Argentina on a person-to-person scale. I can't wait to go back, and would recommend studying in Santiago to anyone who wants a life-changing, educational, and wholesome experience.

I honestly think going to Ireland was the best decision I ever made. At first, I was nervous to even apply, but then my close friend gave me some good advice: "If not now, when?" So, I took my time and submitted an application just to try, and I am so happy I did. I remember sitting at JFK Airport before leaving for a flight to Dublin and I had no idea how amazing the next 5 weeks of my life would be. In Galway, I lived in a shared apartment in a village filled with pastel colored buildings with three other girls from all around the USA. I never experienced homesickness once because once I got there, my days were filled with making shared dinners in our kitchen, singing songs on our way to town, watching movies and doing homework on slow nights, and finding a new family to explore Galway with. I am still in contact with the people that I met on our trip, and in fact, some of us are planning an annual trip to go back. Our program director was so supportive, making sure we knew the ins and outs of the city before letting us loose, and he was always very diligent to make time for one of us if anything arose. The classes were amazing, the professors came from all over Ireland, and our tour guides on field trips were charismatic, reciting poetry at times and truly immersing us in hidden spots all over Galway county. I was really intimidated by the prospect of European travel, as I was born and raised in a pretty isolated part of Montana, and this trip made me realize that I belonged to something on a global scale. Going to Galway really did change me and I am so grateful for the effect it has had on my life. Since going to Galway, I have made friends from Ireland, Germany, and the UK. There are so many people out there, so many connections to be made, so many things to learn. If you even have an inkling of an idea to apply, I would say, do not underestimate the liberation of traveling. It may seem daunting, but it is possible and it will be so amazing.

I have had such an amazing experience studying in Reading. The town is beautiful, and it gives you perfect insight into British life. USAC was amazing! The program director was always available to provide guidance or support, and the arranged events were great for building a sense of community within the program. I met some close friends through USAC, which helped me to assimilate into the university easily. I have had such an amazing, insightful, special experience and cannot recommend this program enough!

This program was life-changing. The staff made the transition into Japan smooth and helped with any issues. I never felt overwhelmed, and I was set up for success. The school's community is amazing. It is impossible not to make friends, and you will meet the coolest people. I genuinely fell in love with life again after this program. The education is informative and interesting. The Japanese classes are well structured, and I enjoyed them. I encourage everyone to apply for this program! Nagasaki is a lovely city, and you get a lot of perks for being a student! I recommend the art museum, the rope line, and my favorite place-- Nagasaki Seaside Park!