Wonderful cultural immersion semester!

I can't begin to say how happy I am with my semester with CIEE Arts + Sciences in Hyderabad. Hosted at the University of Hyderabad's Study in India Program, this program offers a manageable introduction to Indian culture, history, and society. The program courses are designed for international students, with the option to study in the broader university and customize your curriculum as desired. Students can integrate as much into university life as wanted, and can branch out off campus through homestays and volunteering. The staff is caring and capable, experienced in working with American students and full of recommendations and advice.

Hyderabad is a dynamic city that is changing every day, with young professionals from all across India (and the world) calling it home. The tech industry is most well known here, but there are also many nonprofits, NGOs, and social enterprises with interesting missions and employees. (This also means that English is common, as well as Hindi and the local language Telugu.) It is a mix of north and south Indian cultures, cuisines, styles, and more, making it a great microcosm of the country. It's also centrally located which makes travel to different cities by plane, train, or bus possible.

Five years out, I credit this experience with helping me discover my career path. This past year I was even able to return to Hyderabad to work at a nonprofit; I lived just a short drive from campus. I am still close with my host family and friends from the university. This recent experience wouldn't have been possible without the connections and experiences I gained through the CIEE program.