CEA CAPA Education Abroad in Barcelona, Spain

Studying and interning abroad in Barcelona through CEA CAPA is something that I could not recommend enough. As someone who had never traveled out of the country before, I felt supported every step of the way through this program. I felt well prepared for the Spanish culture shock, navigating public transportation, and any other challenges that were likely to arise. The study center is conveniently located in one of the busiest parts of the city, making it easy to find and get to via the metro system. The internship placement process was extensive, however it made sure that I was given the best possible experience for my professional development. The culture is rich and the nightlife is unlike anywhere else. Anyone would have the best time in Barcelona with CEA CAPA!

Studying abroad in Barcelona, Spain exceeded all of my expectations! The city is full of life and each day there was something new to explore or experience. I gained an understanding of a country that I will forever love and desire to return to. I honestly did not encounter many challenges as I tried to embrace every experience that came my way. Although things may be stressful and different, this experience allows you to truly grow into the best version of yourself! Contemporary Spain: History, Politics, and Society was the course I took which was an engaging, fun, and enjoyable learning experience that helped to open my eyes to the unique host cultures of Barcelona as the vibrant capital of Catalonia in northeastern Spain. Barcelona has a blending of regional identity, creative expression, historical influences, internationalism, artistic innovation, and much more. The class was able to provide me with a greater understanding of the culture Barcelona is marked by as it’s a country filled with pride in its distinct identity, reflected in everything from the local festivals to the political activism in the desire for greater autonomy. Beyond academics, living abroad encapsulated so many other aspects which help shape my experience. I was assigned a shared apartment with three roommates and they are what made my experience as amazing as it was. Although I was nervous upon leaving the United States and living abroad with three random strangers, I can say that I am walking away from this experience with three new best friends; 10/10!

When looking back on my abroad experience attending CEA CAPA in Barcelona was the best decision for me. I had never been to Europe and was apprehensive about taking classes in another country and acclimating to it. CEA CAPA provided students with an in depth orientation to acclimate to the way of life here and learn about the city which eased my stress about living in a foreign country. The staff was very accommodating and always willing to work with you which was very beneficial. I cannot imagine going somewhere else to study abroad as everything turned out to be an unforgettable experience.

My study abroad experience with CEA CAPA in Barcelona was incredible. The program does a really good job of meshing academics with cultural immersion. My housing situation was rather sticky as I was in an apartment with 4 other ladies, but I was surrounded by convenience stores and shops — only 6 minutes away from the metro station and 8 away from the beautiful Sagrada Familia! CEA CAPA offers excellent excursions and smaller activities (my favorites were walking taste tours and yoga), that make it easy to connect with fellow students. I got homesick a few times, and the staff was very kind in assisting me in getting situated better. I’m thankful to have had them.

I signed up for the CEA CAPA's Barcelona program solo and had no idea what to expect. CEA CAPA was so supportive and helpful throughout every step of the process and once I got there, I was extremely impressed with the program itself. The classes were structured really well and the events that they hosted were amazing as well. I went to a Barcelona game and a weekend trip to Madrid that were both run by CEA CAPA and had an incredible time. I would very highly recommend CEA CAPA to any student thinking about going abroad.

I had the opportunity to study in Barcelona during the fall. While I was here, I was able to attend cultural events, try new foods, explore the rest of Europe, and make friends that I will have for the rest of my life. Specifically at CEA, I was able to create relationships with my professors, where the class would regularly share what they were doing the prior weekend, and even talk about what they would be doing the next weekend. Also, being close with the teachers allowed for local recommendations at the best spots to avoid any tourist traps. Finally, CEA did a great job at putting an emphasis on our safety and sharing resources such as the emergency hotline should anything happen.

My experience with CEA CAPA in Barcelona was nothing short of transformative, and I am deeply grateful for how unique and enriching the entire program was. From the immersive academic experiences to the hands-on cultural engagements, CEA CAPA’s approach to study abroad took learning to an entirely new level, far beyond what I ever imagined. What stood out most was how they seamlessly integrated academics with the cultural, social, and professional aspects of life in Barcelona, making the growth through experiential learning both educational and personal.

One of the key reasons my experience was so unique was the emphasis on learning outside the classroom. From day one, CEA CAPA encouraged me to explore the city and engage with its rich culture, making every moment an opportunity for growth. I didn't just study Spanish in a classroom; I lived it through conversations with locals, visits to museums, cooking classes, and volunteering at local community programs. I remember vividly the tapas cooking workshop I participated in, which was not just a lesson in culinary techniques but a deep dive into Spanish culture. It was a fun and delicious way to learn about Spain’s food traditions, and it allowed me to bond with fellow students and local chefs, making the experience both educational and interactive. These moments were far from traditional lectures and helped me feel connected to the place in ways I had not anticipated.

The most significant highlight for me was my volunteer work with ITACA ELS VENTS, a local after-school program. While many students were studying and learning from textbooks, I was given the chance to directly engage with children from diverse backgrounds, improving my cross-cultural communication skills and gaining insight into the social challenges facing communities in Barcelona. Through games and activities, I not only practiced my Spanish, but I also developed patience, empathy, and adaptability. Working with these kids helped me break down language barriers and taught me the importance of understanding cultural differences in a meaningful way. It was through experiences like these that I felt the true essence of learning—both in and outside the classroom. In conclusion, my time with CEA CAPA in Barcelona was an unforgettable experience that exceeded my expectations in every way. The program’s commitment to combining academic rigor with cultural immersion, hands-on learning, and personal growth set it apart from other study abroad programs. I walked away from the experience not just with a deeper understanding of Spain and its culture, but also with new perspectives on education, global citizenship, and my own personal development. I truly loved my time with CEA CAPA because it was not just about studying abroad, it was about becoming a part of a global community, gaining life-changing experiences, and learning in ways that are impossible to replicate in a traditional classroom.

I had the opportunity to teach English in a primary school in Barcelona through a CEA CAPA class! The class was called International Service Learning, and granted us a placement in our host community. I was able to improve my Spanish, learn some Catalan, gain credit towards my degree, and build lasting relationships with teachers and students. Volunteering is a great way to immerse yourself in the community and learn through teaching- something I never would have gotten the chance to do if not for CEA!