Program Reviews

In speaking with other auxes and comparing experiences, I feel as if CIEE gave me more pre-departure support than auxes in other programs received. The move to Madrid was definitely difficult, but I knew that CIEE was there to help me in whatever way I needed. Without them, I would have struggled/had to work harder to secure my Visa, in-country paperwork, roommates, and housing. I am so grateful I decided to participate in the CIEE program instead of other programs because it has made my transition much, much easier. On top of that, I love the school I was placed in and could not be happier with my in-school experience.

I’ve never lived abroad before, so coming with CIEE was the right step for me! There is a fee, but in my opinion, it’s worth the extra guidance and protection, especially as a first-time worker and resident in Spain. And I’ve made a ton of friends from the program through orientation which has been a foundational part of my experience here and, quite frankly, something my friends from other programs haven’t experienced to the extent I have. Whether you’re fresh out of college like me or looking to take a break from your career, I can’t recommend this program enough.

CIEE Teach in China is great for beginner teachers looking to promote fun in education. Most likely, the schools will not provide foreign teachers with a curriculum, therefore, teachers have full freedom in the types lessons they plan. It is expected that foreign teachers will engage in fun and interactive educational activities with the students rather than more formal teaching styles. Take this into consideration when deciding how much guidance you need/don't need to be successful, as all lessons will be at your discretion.

Your school contacts and other foreign teachers in the area will be your greatest support system. Find them fast and share the experience together. I also recommend learning a few Chinese phrases before arriving. As someone living outside of a major city, it was fairly navigable even without full understanding of the Chinese language, but knowing basic phrases will exponentially improve/increase your social interactions.

I was very nervous about going to Spain. There is a lot to do before you arrive but CIEE really does help you along the way. Every question I had was answered immediately. I received texts weekly reminding me of the task I should get done that week so I had everything ready for my VISA appointment at least a month before. I was expected to be more stressed out. I'm thankful there is a team of people there for us from the moment we decided to become an aux until the first day of school (and throughout the school year). I would suggest this program to anyone that wants a change in their life and doesn't want to do all the difficult parts of uplifting your life alone.

Receiving guidance from the beginning and step by step instructions made for a much less stressful process and more confidence to pursue the program. The in person orientation was helpful for a hands on experience and getting to meet other people who are in or have been in your exact shoes. Don’t let housing scare you - just be persistent. My school, teachers, and students are amazing. Be confident and use Spanish as much as you can, even if it’s scary. Try new things and don’t forget to get out of the city center at times.

Before completing this course, I was fully confident that I would be able to begin teaching with just my own prior knowledge. This course has taught me so many things that are specific to teaching English as a foreign language such as tips and ticks for the classroom, specific teaching methods and how to involve myself in the culture of the community I will be servicing. I think that anyone who will be teaching English to students that do not speak English needs to complete this course. A degree in education won't cover the things (at least not in as much detail) that this course dives into. Great course! Highly recommend!

The initial price tag threw me off a bit, but after doing the program, I'm glad that I did go with CIEE for its comprehensive assistance with learning how to work abroad legally. As someone who has never lived abroad, their comprehensive support through the Visa, legal, and other processes was very valuable. I also felt supported throughout the whole process. One thing to know is that there isn't as much support for being a language assistant itself. You get some, but if you haven't taught before (Also know: you ARENT A TEACHER through this program), you should do their TEFL program.

I signed up for this program back in March 2024, have spent the summer preparing for it, and now have been in Spain for almost 6 weeks. I think CIEE does a good job of helping you prepare for the travel experience and completing tasks/errands necessary to work/live in another country. The most helpful part was the Visa guide they provided. I would have been extremely stressed and confused without it. I also really enjoy them having advisors that you can text and/or call with personalized questions and they will get back to you in a timely manner. However, I think the upfront fee that we paid was quite expensive (I believe it was more than the value of the help we were receiving from them). But they are still the program that helps guide you the most through the whole process which I appreciate.

Teaching abroad in Madrid has been a life changing experience that I will value forever. The job is reflectively low stress, however I still feel the difference in each student’s life that i’m making every day. CIEE was so helpful in finding a placement in Madrid, and answered every question I had along the way, from visa questions to advice on what area to live in in order to have an easier commute. I felt more than ready to start my new life in Madrid thanks to CIEE, and now I don’t see myself ever wanting to leave!

Choosing CIEE to help me teach abroad was one of the best decisions I’ve made. Everyone at CIEE is incredibly helpful, caring, and knowledgeable about the city. Before I even arrived in Madrid, I felt fully prepared for the experience. CIEE provided a detailed Canvas course that outlined all the appointments I needed to schedule and everything I had to do. They also offered several webinars leading up to the in-person orientation, including sessions on housing, healthcare, and pre-departure tips. It was a great opportunity to hear from people who had taught in Spain in previous years, sharing their advice and personal experiences about where to live and what to expect.
One of the biggest benefits of choosing CIEE was the seamless health insurance enrollment. We were automatically signed up with ASISA, a great provider with a large network and helpful support available at any time. Another highlight was my school placement—I couldn't have asked for a better one. My coworkers and students are amazing; it is truly a dream come true.
CIEE also organized a week-long orientation in Madrid before school started, which was such a valuable experience. It gave everyone in the program a chance to meet and make connections, and we were paired with Orientation Leaders who guided us throughout. My orientation leader, Lauren D., was fantastic—well-informed, inspiring, kind, and incredibly helpful. She made my group feel at home and showed us some of the best spots in the city. The friendships I made during orientation have been so meaningful, and I’m grateful to now be part of such a wonderful community.