Studying in the Balkans

I had an exceptional experience studying abroad with SIT Balkans. When I was searching for study abroad programs I was drawn to SIT because of their focus on immersion and experiential learning, which the program in the Balkans certainly provided. The program is based in Serbia, but there were also excursions to Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as Kosovo. While living with a home stay family in Belgrade I felt truly immersed in the city - which is fascinating in and of itself.

One of the reasons I loved the program is that I was able to feel immersed and comfortable, while at the same time have an experience where no day was quite like the next. However, my typical day in Belgrade would involve going to classes in Serbian language and Peace and Conflict Studies with other students in the program, often times after class we would go to a cafe in the city or spend time with our home stay families.

As well as classes in Belgrade, the SIT program also requires an Independent Study Project as part the curriculum. Although the project seemed daunting at first, to leave the program with a unique project that I completed independently was an incredibly valuable academic experience, and one which I know I will be able to draw on in the future.