This has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life. I have to admit, I was quite nervous about going through with this. I graduated from college in 2014, worked for a while while trying to figure everything out- like what I really wanted to do. I was nervous that I was “too old” to teach abroad, because it seemed like most participants were doing this right after graduating. Long story short, I’m so happy with my decision. No regrets at all! Whether you’re trying to be an educator, want to see if you’ll enjoy it, or have no plans at all to teach in the future- this program is still for you. It’s a whole experience that will help you grow as a person. Personally, I have learned that I can go abroad, live independently, learn new skills, and meet new people all on my own. There is nothing better for self-confidence than that. My school is great. I work in a town just outside of Granada where the teachers, students and staff are all so kind and welcoming. I won’t lie, there are some challenging days. I work at an elementary school and the kids can be loud, disruptive, etc. Honestly though, it’s a good challenge, and I always feel like I’ve made at least some small positive difference. CIEE has been right there whenever I’ve needed them, and any step along the way. Even though I did move here alone, I know that I can always reach out to the staff here in Spain if I ever needed them. They’ve been very responsive and helpful- especially Michaela. I remember her checking in on me once or twice and I really appreciated that because I know there are lot’s of participants. I could go on and on, but the short of it is that I am having a great time here and would definitely recommend anyone to give it a shot.

CIEE has made my experience teaching in Spain a smooth, fun, well-organized process. They offer help through a messy and complex visa application, making it straight forward and clear. When it came time to renew my placement, they helped consistently through that process as well. Both before arriving and once in Spain, they provide supportive and consistent communication and have made me feel ready to take on new transitions and challenges with confidence. I love knowing that I have resources and support while being able to live my life in Spain independently and make the experience my own. Michaela is the primary contact in Andalucía and she is absolutely incredible at giving individual help, answering every kind of question, and being responsive to everyone. I can tell she loves her job and it really shows in the way she supports new teachers. A fabulous program all around.

Pros: Excellent support and orientation from staff during the whole process: application, pre-arrival and academic year. Great opportunity to start in the world of teaching. The job itself is very rewarding since you're helping your students to improve their English proficiency. It is ideal for people who like backpacking since you only work four days a week. You can also do private lessons for more money and teaching experience. Madrid is full of fun and opportunities, you can always find something to do in the city. You can also go almost anywhere in Spain from Madrid. Madrid is well connected to other countries too.

Cons: In case you're renewing your placement, you don't get paid during the summer vacations, so you better save some money.

I applied to both the government program (North American cultural assistant program and CIEE. I decided to go with CIEE because I knew I wanted to be in Madrid. With CIEE, you hare guaranteed to be in the community of Madrid. I knew I didnt want to a huge commute and wanted to have help with the student visa application and ongoing support throughout the year. When I went with CIEE, my school was 30 minutes away. The help with the student visa was awesome, everything was super clear and I just had to show up to my appointment that CIEE had set up for me beforehand. Overall, my experience with CIEE has been great. If I need help with something, they are there and there are monthly activities and lots of people that you met in Orientation before the school year starts.

I couldn't say enough positive things about CIEE. The pre-departure support and orientation were so helpful. Staff consistently replied to emails before arriving in Spain and after arriving they have office hours and phone numbers for on site support as well as mobile support. The orientation was a great space to meet my future friends and coworkers. The 10 day stay in the hotel gave time to be in a close space with all the other assistants and we all shared a very unique experience that I won't forget. I would recommend this program to anyone even slightly interested in living abroad. I feel so lucky to have this opportunity and am so grateful I chose CIEE. I have people from home asking me how I manage living abroad alone. The cool thing about CIEE is that I never really feel alone. I have my friends, orientation leader, and support with the staff if I have questions or need anything. My Spanish coworkers couldn't be kinder and more supportive. This has been an incredible experience and I'm sad its coming to an end and I have to go home because this has been the most exciting year of my life. Thank you CIEE.

So many people want the experience of a life time, right? Skydive, hike Machu Picchu, cross the seas in a submarine. Maybe living abroad? In a place that speaks differently than you, eats differently, acts somewhat different. This place that (until you go there) mostly has just existed in your imagination. But then you hear about CIEE from somewhere, and a portal suddenly opens to that place. For me, Spain was the place and CIEE the portal. After you apply and get accepted they take care of every doubt, every stress, every worry you may have: where will I live? How do I deal with the foreign government? What if I get sick, or lose my phone, or can't understand this strange document? I was utterly amazed with the efficiency and commitment of the CIEE staff, before and still after I'd made landfall in Europe. Those things aside, I had no idea how much FUN they would make our week-long orientation. After a few hours of learning the necessities they packed our days full of tours, restaurants, flamenco, and just plain enjoyment. Not once will you be bored, stressed, or regretful. Now one last thing - because of CIEE I met some of the coolest, most interesting people that I ever have and to today I see on the weekly. You thought you were the only cool person coming to teach? Well, go through the CIEE experience and you'll see your'e not. You'll meet dozens on dozens of other like-minded people who have come to make that experience of a life time right alongside you. That's a promise.

CIEE did an excellent job with Visa process, they provided forms and tips to make the process very smooth. Once I got to Spain they were helpful during orientation, once you start teaching most of your communication will be through your school, although CIEE is there for emergencies or anything else you may need.

The CIEE orientation was helpful to get acclimated with the city and meet people in the program. The one con I had about the orientation, is they had you do a pre-departure course, which seemed mandatory but it wasn't. Multiple people didn't complete the course and it wasn't a big deal.

If you are a teacher, this program will be a lot of fun but different. Since you are a language assistant you rely on the other teacher to let you know what they need you to do. I had great teachers who used me and my teaching skills, and other teachers who were not as prepared. I learned valuable skills such as flexibility, working with English Language learners, and connecting with people from different backgrounds. If you are looking for an opportunity to have control and your own classroom, it will be very different.

If you aren't a teacher, do not be stressed out about the teaching. The most important part of the job is having basic conversations in English. The students and teachers will be excited to get to know you.

It was a very nice schedule only teaching for 16 hours, which allowed my wife and I to travel on the weekends.

If you are a couple and planning to apply together, make sure you are specific with what age you want to teach if you want to be at the same school. We were a little frustrated because our number one priority was to be at the same school, but my wife preference was primary and my preference was secondary. As a result we ended up at different schools. It all worked out in the end and we were happy with our placements but make sure you specify.

Overall CIEE is a great organization, my advice is to ask questions, and be in communication with them to make sure it is the right fit for you. Spain is an amazing country and there are a lot of fun places to visit.

I was 100 percent terrified to do this program and move from the West Coast where I have lived my entire life to a new country with a language I have never taken a class for in my life. CIEE was there with us the entire way. Their guidelines were extremely detailed and I rarely found myself asking questions when it came to my Visa, TIE, and living situation. My orientation leader was extremely helpful as well. I was truly impressed with how they set us up. If questions rise during the year, they respond quickly and ask for your feedback so they can help future questioners. I would recommend the Madrid program with my whole heart. I’ve met great friends, enjoyed teaching, and getting to know Spanish culture. I’ve enjoyed it so much I am renewing my teaching contract! Thank you CIEE!