So much to experience

Studying abroad in Hyderabad, India, was one of the best experiences of my life, and this was largely due to (a) the amazing CIEE program and staff, (b) my homestay, (c) the cultural context, and (d) international and local friends.

(a) The CIEE program itself provided enough structure, but also flexibility, in creating an enriching study abroad experience. There were unique opportunities presented to us such as the arts-based classes (classical dance, henna, etc), the "fieldtrips" (the scavenger hunt around the city, visiting a weaving studio), and seminars delivered by local lecturers. The CIEE staff are incredible - they became not only my support, but my friends, and we are still in touch. The staff goes above and beyond to make this a wonderful journey for all students, and they go out of their way to accommodate the needs of each.

(b) One of the ways the program staff accommodated me was by allowing me to secure my own homestay. This made a huge difference for me because living outside of the university was important for my interests as a student of anthropology. I enjoyed my host family immensely, and I learned a lot from my daily commute using public transportation, which was challenging.

(c) Hyderabad itself has so much to offer. It is bursting with flavors, sounds, scents, colors, and people. It has an interesting mix of North and South India, but yet it has its own history and culture as well.

(d) My friends from the CIEE program, as well as from my university classes made my stay in India so full and fun. I had a roommate during my homestay and it was great to develop a close friendship with her. We even traveled together, and those are some of my best memories - my favorite being our trip to the Golden Temple in Amritsar. I also made some Indian friends who I learned so much from.

Overall, this was one of the most transformative semesters of my college years. For each person, it is and will be different, but that's what makes study abroad so powerful. With CIEE Hyderabad, you're sure to benefit from it greatly!