Hospitality Internships in Seville

I first heard of Seville in my high school Spanish class and it never left my mind! That is why I was beyond excited (to say the least) when I found out that API offers an experience in Seville. This program led to a once in a lifetime experience that I will cherish every moment and memory from. Originally, I had only planned to go abroad for the spring semester of my junior year but then I discovered that not only does API offer a program in Seville - they offer one for the academic year and this is what I found myself doing! I will say it was an intimidating experience because not only was I leaving my life at home for a long time, I was one of the few year long students! But in the fall when I first arrived, API made sure that I got to experience the orientation just like all the other students. Orientation was really exciting because we got to fly into Madrid and spend a few days there! This gave me the opportunity to meet the other students on the program, including my future roommate. I have a fond memory of the whole group going together to explore the city and finding this awesome food market! API immediately had activities planned for us to orient to the abroad experience and get to know each other. These included a guided tour of a palace in Madrid and a group dinner. The special activities did not just end at orientation, they were extensive for the rest of my whole year-long experience! Some of my favorite memories from abroad come from the excursions we took like making homemade bread in a small village outside the city, staying the night in a monastery, flying to Barcelona, going on a walking tour in Cádiz, and so much more! Not only were these excursions a great way to explore Spain and the culture, they gave me a chance to become even closer friends with the students on my program. The friends I got to meet abroad are still some of my best friends today and even though we live in different parts of the country, we still stay in touch! I even got to meet up with one of then in Boston! Overall, choosing to study in Seville for a year was the best decision I have ever made in my life and I am already planning to take a return trip! API created an inclusive environment where it was easy to meet other students and the program leaders were always available to answer any questions. I appreciated their knowledge of the city and suggestions for restaurants and places to visit. The office has open hours where students can come in for support and email responses are fast. The program offered many housing options ranging from host families to apartments. I am so happy with the apartment I stayed in because I had my own room, a shared kitchen and living room, and the location was fabulous. (the rooftop pool was also a plus!) If you are deciding where to go, I highly suggest checking out the Seville program offered by Academics Program International because you will have the best time of your life and never want to leave the beautiful city!

I would love to thank everyone who played/ plays a role on my internship program in the United States. I would love to let you know that I am more than happy at The Union Club Hotel, people are so nice and supportive. I have met other J1's from other countries, it's so nice to learn about other cultures, when we have time we travel, cook and participate in various fun activities. If it wasn't for you guys I wouldn't be here. Thank you, Sanele