I had the absolutely best time in Spain; it is now my favorite country I've visited. I went into this program knowing absolutely no one, and came out with 4 best friends for life! Not only that, but we met in class which is where we discovered we shared similar majors. This trip opened my eyes to the world and helped me form countless new relationships. I have now seen parts of the world I never thought I would while not only broadening my education for my major, but for many new cultures.
This program helped give us a jump start on exploring the culture by planing trips for us and excursions. Those are some of my best and favorite memories from abroad, and really helped us when planning our own weekend trips.

I traveled to Seville through CEA CAPA, which my school partnered with. I didn't know about Seville before signing up for the trip; I just knew it was in Spain, a country where I admire its culture. In fact, I actually aimed to sign up for Barcelona, a location I was more familiar with, but the trip was full by the time I signed up. However, this worked out extremely well for me because Seville was beautiful!! It was pretty small, making it very walkable and fun to explore, and it felt very intimate. It's packed with culture and history and communities with diverse backgrounds I wouldn't have known about had I not taken the step to travel there. CEA CAPA paired my group with a great professor who made class and our explorations feel worthwhile. I also went on the trip not knowing how my experience as a Black woman would be, but it was overall positive. Additionally, I had the opportunity to meet Black women living in Seville, with whom my all-Black female class got to have an engaging, open discussion. I spent two weeks in Seville and that was a great duration for me. I hope to travel there again someday.

Studying abroad in Sevilla was an unforgettable chapter in my life, filled with rich experiences that I’ll cherish forever. From the moment I arrived in this vibrant Spanish city, I was greeted with warmth and hospitality, which set the tone for my entire stay.

Welcoming Local Culture

One of the standout aspects of my time in Sevilla was the friendliness of the local people. Sevilla is renowned for its welcoming and warm-hearted residents, and I found this to be true in every interaction I had. Whether I was navigating the bustling streets or engaging in conversations with locals, I was consistently met with smiles, helpful advice, and genuine curiosity about my life as an international student. This sense of community made Sevilla feel like a second home and greatly enhanced my overall experience.

Culinary Delights

The food in Sevilla was nothing short of extraordinary. From the first bite of tapas to the delightful pastries and hearty paella, every meal was a culinary adventure. The city’s food culture is deeply ingrained in its lifestyle, and I found myself exploring a variety of local dishes at charming restaurants and bustling markets. Each meal was an opportunity to savor the rich flavors of Spanish cuisine, and the abundance of fresh ingredients made every dish memorable.

Sunny Weather

The weather in Sevilla was another highlight of my stay. The city boasts a warm Mediterranean climate, with sunshine being a constant companion throughout my time there. The sunny weather provided the perfect backdrop for exploring the city’s historic landmarks, relaxing in beautiful parks, and enjoying leisurely strolls along the Guadalquivir River. The consistent sunshine not only brightened my days but also made outdoor activities and sightseeing even more enjoyable.

Travel Opportunities and Affordability

Sevilla’s strategic location and affordability were significant advantages of studying abroad there. The city’s well-connected transport network made it easy to travel both within Spain and across Europe. Weekend trips to nearby cities like Granada and Córdoba, as well as adventures in other European destinations, were a breeze. Moreover, the cost of living in Sevilla was relatively affordable compared to other major European cities, allowing me to make the most of my time abroad without stretching my budget.

A Loving Host Home

One of the most heartwarming aspects of my experience was my host home. I was fortunate to stay with a wonderful host mom who made me feel cherished and cared for. Her warmth and hospitality extended beyond providing meals; she was a source of support and comfort throughout my stay. Our conversations, shared meals, and her genuine interest in my well-being created a familial bond that made my time in Sevilla feel even more special.

Conclusion

My study abroad experience in Sevilla was a perfect blend of cultural immersion, personal growth, and unforgettable moments. The city’s friendly locals, incredible food, sunny weather, travel opportunities, and the love from my host family all contributed to a transformative journey. Sevilla not only offered an enriching educational experience but also a chance to create lasting memories and connections. I am incredibly grateful for the time I spent in this enchanting city and the experiences that have left a lasting impression on my life.

During the Spring of 2024, I spent a semester abroad in Seville, Spain, where I completed my Spanish minor and an internship focused on Marketing Analytics. During the semester, I was housed in an apartment with four other women. I had talked to two of the women I was going to live with prior, however I didn't know the other two. This housing experience was absolutely amazing and we all supported each other during this experience. What truly made my experience so special were the people. I made friends that I will truly have forever!

Looking for a way to practice your Spanish and explore a new country? Studying abroad through CEA-CAPA in Sevilla is the perfect opportunity. Having taken Spanish since elementary school, I was amazed at the variety of ways CEA-CAPA immersed us in the Spanish language and culture. Just starting your Spanish language journey? No worries—CEA-CAPA offers opportunities for students at all levels. As a STEM major, I never thought studying abroad would fit into my schedule, but CEA-CAPA made it possible with their wide range of class offerings. Overall, it was one of the best semesters of my college experience, and I would go again in a heartbeat!

A unique opportunity in Sevilla to stay in a “Casa de Sevilla,” which is a mix between a homestay and an apartment was one of the most enjoyable parts of this program. I lived with six other girls from different universities and we had a host mom that we could practice the language with, eat meals with, ask questions about Sevilla, or anything else. I really felt this was the best of both worlds because you had your own space but also had the cultural aspect of study abroad everyday in your house.

My semester abroad with CEA CAPA in Seville, Spain was nothing short of transformative. It was an experience that extended far beyond the classroom that focused on education, culture, and personal growth through unforgettable experiences. From the moment I arrived in Seville, I felt a special connection to the city. Through classes and excursions with CEA CAPA, I made lifelong friendships and broadened my horizons as I had the incredible opportunity to learn, grow, and connect in transformative ways.

Studying abroad with CEA CAPA in Sevilla an awesome experience that exceeded all my expectations. The program's organization and support made the transition smooth and enjoyable, allowing me to immerse myself fully in the new Spanish lifestyle

The academic component of the program was super informative and rewarding. The courses were thoughtfully designed to provide deep insights into Spanish culture and history, and the professors were truly so engaged, caring and knowledgable in their fields.

CEA CAPA also facilitated numerous excursions and cultural activities that enriched my understanding of Spain. We had many excursions through our classes as well cooking classes, kayaking on the Gualaquivir and flamenco shows. These activities not only broadened my knowledge but also helped me build lasting friendships with fellow students.