CIEE College Study Abroad in Barcelona, Spain

I chose to do an internship through ciee for my study abroad. While the internship itself was not a good experience (for a multitude of reasons lol), ciee staff were super supportive and willing to help the experience be as good as it could be for me and the other ciee interns working with me. That's a big reason as to why I would recommend ciee- no matter the circumstance, you will learn a lot and ciee is there to help you through it all.

I loved this experience and would recommend it to anyone! I would say that you're going to mess up a lot while abroad and not everything will go as planned. But that's just part of the learning experience and the fun, and you just gotta laugh through it. This experience is what you make of it, so make sure to reach out to people and plan out some fun things to do!

Also, the dorms are private (no roomie) with own bathroom and kitchenette!

CIEE Study Abroad in Barcelona, Spain has been an incredible experience in nearly all aspects. The program offers a wide array of courses to take, allowing students interested in a variety of topics to enjoy the time they spend in the classroom and learn a lot about the topics that interest them in the context of the culture around them. All of the staff at the program is willing and eager to support you through any challenges that may arise, and will do all they can to ensure that you enjoy your experience—all professors and administrative staff alike. Barcelona itself is an incredible place to study abroad, with its astonishing history, beautiful and diverse architecture, and multitude of fun activities and food at your disposal. Even better, it is both easy and relatively cheap to travel from, allowing you to experience all that Europe and beyond has to offer. Great program, great city.

CIEE Barcelona offered a wonderful study abroad program in Barcelona. The courses offered were related to academic work at my university, but students were never too busy with school work to go out and explore Barcelona's restaurant, cultural, and nightlife scenes. CIEE offered coordinated day trips and weekly activities for no additional cost that were also very enjoyable and a great way to meet more students on the program. I would recommend this program to students who are looking for an adventurous semester in Barcelona.

The best part of the experience was the ability to travel easily to countries all around Europe. Barcelona was usually a 2 hour flight from most countries and about 4 hours from countries that are further North or East. The program itself was great as well. The campus was located in the center of the city center and getting around wherever you want was very easy. Classes and teachers made it easy to travel, explore, adventure, and complete courses successfully. Professors encourage you to travel and see Europe and even ask you how your weekend traveling was. The pre-departure tasks were a lot to deal with the semester prior to leaving but once you're here, it's all worth it. The CIEE excursions were also great and well organized. However, there are very limited spots so it may be hard to actually go on them. Housing was also great for me. My apartment was located on the classic street of Consell de Cent. The apartment was big and in a great location. I had 10 random roommates and overall it was a great experience to get to know new people.

For anyone deciding to Study Abroad, Barcelona is the perfect location and CIEE offers amazing support. CIEE is very organized in their communication with students, which has made my experience better and stress-free. The classes themselves are not too challenging which allows students to spend time exploring the city of Barcelona and to travel to other cities in Europe. The CIEE buildings are conveniently located - only a 3-minute walk from the Metro! I recommend Barcelona - CIEE to anybody interested in studying overseas.

Studying abroad in Barcelona was nothing short of a transformative adventure—a whirlwind of new experiences, vibrant culture, and personal growth. As I reflect on my time in this enchanting city, I can't help but feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the unforgettable memories and invaluable lessons it has bestowed upon me.
 
From the moment I stepped off the plane and into the bustling streets of Barcelona, I was captivated by its unique charm and energy. The city seemed to pulse with life, its streets lined with architectural wonders and vibrant murals adorning every corner. It was a feast for the senses, and I eagerly embraced every opportunity to immerse myself in its rich tapestry of sights, sounds, and flavors.
 
One of the most remarkable aspects of my study abroad experience was the opportunity to connect with people from all walks of life. Whether it was striking up conversations with locals in charming cafés or bonding with fellow students over tapas and sangria, I was constantly inspired by the diversity and warmth of the people I encountered. Each interaction was a lesson in cultural exchange, broadening my perspectives and deepening my understanding of the world around me.
 
Academically, Barcelona offered a wealth of opportunities for intellectual exploration and growth. My classes were taught by passionate professors who encouraged critical thinking and creativity, challenging me to approach learning from new angles and perspectives. Whether it was delving into the history of Catalan art or studying the intricacies of Spanish literature, I found myself truly engaged and inspired by the academic environment.
 
Of course, studying abroad wasn't all about hitting the books. One of the highlights of my time in Barcelona was the opportunity to explore its rich cultural heritage and vibrant nightlife. From the awe-inspiring architecture of Antoni Gaudí to the bustling markets of La Boqueria, every day was an adventure waiting to unfold. And when night fell, the city came alive with the pulsating rhythm of flamenco music and the laughter of revelers spilling out onto the streets. It was nothing short of a once in a lifetime experience.
 
But perhaps the most profound aspect of my study abroad experience was the personal growth it inspired within me. Living in a foreign country forced me out of my comfort zone, challenging me to navigate unfamiliar situations and adapt to new ways of life. It was a journey of self-discovery, teaching me resilience, independence, and the importance of embracing uncertainty with an open heart.
 
As I prepare to bid farewell to Barcelona and embark on the next chapter of my journey, I carry with me a treasure trove of memories and experiences that will stay with me for a lifetime. Studying abroad in this vibrant city has been a gift beyond measure, shaping not only my academic and professional aspirations but also my understanding of the world and my place within it. Barcelona will always hold a special place in my heart, a beacon of adventure, discovery, and endless possibility.

CIEE's study abroad program provided a great ratio of academics, local culture immersion, and freedom. Staff members provided support and events, while also leaving lots of room for individual travel and personal time. Class times and schedules were perfectly crafted to allow for adequate rest and travel buffers, and I was even able to join a local sports team to maintain my training until I return back to my university. During my time abroad I also got to visit the UK, the Netherlands, Sweden, and even do a part of the Camino de Santiago! Such a fun, well-rounded experience.

My study abroad adventure in Barcelona was transformative. Engaging in intellectually stimulating courses at CIEE and immersing myself in the city's vibrant culture made for an enriching experience. Overcoming the language barrier, I formed meaningful connections with a diverse group of students. Living in a homestay provided unique insights into local life, and exploring Spain and neighboring countries like Italy only added to the experience. Barcelona not only broadened my understanding of cultures but also equipped me with valuable personal and interpersonal skills. Grateful for unforgettable memories and lasting friendships, my time in Barcelona was truly a highlight of my academic and personal growth.