<h4>What inspired you to work for <a title="undefined" href=https://www.goabroad.com/providers/learn-russian-in-the-european-union rel="" target="_self" class="clickTracker" rev="domainID=0&amp;refererType=1&amp;refererID=3394&amp;abbreviation=CSCT&amp;clientID=52627" data-ga-client="Learn Russian in the European Union" data-contentlink=""><ins>Learn Russian in the Europ</ins></a><a href=https://www.goabroad.com/providers/learn-russian-in-the-european-union rel="" target="_self" class="link"><ins>ean Union</ins></a>?</h4>
<p>I was inspired to work for this organization because it allows me to combine my passion for language education with my extensive experience.</p>
<p>For the past 20 years, I have worked with Learn Russian in the EU, and I was drawn to this organization’s mission of promoting cultural understanding and high-quality language instruction.</p>
<p>Being able to contribute to meaningful learning experiences and support students’ growth while working in a collaborative, values-driven environment has been incredibly motivating for me.</p>
<div class="awesome-image right-aligned wrap-mobile" ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1767926459/images2/interviews/KMyItwI5UZlstDlZOr9EPZ04JUIM0YC86T2Vo9Nv.jpg" alt="Three people pose for a photo inside West Point Cadet Chapel."><div class="caption"><p>Visiting West Point, March 2022</p></div></div>
<h4>Why do you do what you do?</h4>
<p>I teach Russian because I genuinely believe that language is one of the most powerful tools for building understanding between people and cultures.</p>
<p>Over the past twenty years at Learn Russian in the EU, I’ve seen how learning a language can completely transform a student’s worldview—opening academic paths, professional opportunities, and meaningful personal connections.</p>
<p>What motivates me most is watching students gain confidence: when they start using Russian in real situations, when they finally understand a complex grammatical concept, or when they begin to connect with local culture on a personal level. Teaching offers me the chance to be part of those moments every day.</p>
<p>Ultimately, I do what I do because watching students grow—linguistically, culturally, and personally—is still inspiring to me after two decades. It’s a privilege to be part of their journey.</p>
<h4>What advice would you tell your pre-travel self?</h4>
<p>I would tell my pre-travel self to embrace curiosity and flexibility, and to be open to unexpected experiences.</p>
<p>Every place and person you meet has something to teach you, so don’t over-plan or worry about perfection. Take the time to connect with the local culture, observe, listen, and enjoy the journey — the small moments often become the most memorable.</p>
<h4>What makes Learn Russian in the European Union special?</h4>
<p>What makes Learn Russian in the EU special is the combination of academic excellence, cultural immersion, and genuine personal support that we offer to every student. We are not just a language school—we are a full educational environment where students can live the language every day.</p>
<div class="awesome-image centered " ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1767926460/images2/interviews/vNFLAXudkkSjmJijPPp4RVmkiGEeRz26ilGKH2D6.jpg" alt="group of adults posing for a photo inside a classroom"><div class="caption"><p>In class with American students, January 2022</p></div></div>
<p>First, our academic approach is exceptionally strong. Our programs are taught by highly experienced instructors, many with long careers in teaching Russian as a foreign language. We tailor our lessons to each student’s level and goals, ensuring that learning is both effective and enjoyable.</p>
<p>Second, our location provides an authentic cultural experience. Students don’t just study Russian—they use it in real-life situations, interact with local communities, and gain a deeper understanding of the region’s history, traditions, and contemporary life. This immersion accelerates learning in a way that textbooks alone never can.</p>
<p>Finally, what truly sets us apart is the personal attention we give to every participant. From the moment students arrive, we support them academically, culturally, and practically. We help them feel comfortable, confident, and connected, so they can focus fully on learning and enjoying their time abroad.</p>
<p>This combination of professionalism, immersion, and human warmth is what makes our organization unique—and why so many students describe their experience with us as transformative.</p>
<h4>Why should someone choose Learn Russian in the European Union over competitors?</h4>
<p>Someone should choose our organization because we combine deep expertise, proven experience, and a personalized approach.</p>
<p>With over 20 years of work with Learn Russian in the EU, we understand the unique challenges of language learning in diverse cultural contexts. Our programs focus not only on grammar and vocabulary but also on cultural fluency and practical communication skills, helping learners engage confidently in real-life situations.</p>
<p>We prioritize long-term growth, supportive guidance, and a learning environment that adapts to each student’s needs, ensuring meaningful results and lasting connections.</p>
<div class="awesome-image centered " ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1767926460/images2/interviews/iFDCcH51n0OCElj1wFtOpvzCAvtM1CxEpInfCW4P.jpg" alt="Three adults at an exhibition booth."><div class="caption"><p>At the ACTFEL Conference, February 2022</p></div></div>
<h3>What is Learn Russian in the European Union’s mission and how do you continue to work toward it?</h3>
<p>Our organization’s mission is to promote language learning and cultural understanding across Europe, helping students not only master Russian but also engage meaningfully with the cultures where it is spoken.</p>
<p>We continue to work toward this mission by offering high-quality, personalized programs, combining practical language instruction with cultural insights, and supporting learners at every stage of their journey.</p>
<p>Drawing on over 20 years of experience, we focus on creating an engaging, inclusive, and supportive learning environment, encouraging students to develop confidence, fluency, and a deeper appreciation for cross-cultural communication.</p>
<h3>What do you hope participants take away from your programs?</h3>
<p>I hope participants take away not only strong language skills but also a deeper understanding of the culture and context in which the language is used.</p>
<p>Beyond grammar and vocabulary, I want them to gain confidence in real-life communication, curiosity about different perspectives, and the ability to connect meaningfully with others.</p>
<p>Ultimately, my goal is for every participant to leave with both practical skills and an appreciation for the richness of language as a bridge between people and cultures.</p>
<h3>How do you help support participants?</h3>
<div class="awesome-image right-aligned wrap-mobile" ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1767926461/images2/interviews/Nk1OOZaCoiugK8rkgq58gMg4ZSKphVSYMKQAdy34.jpg" alt="woman posing beside a banner"><div class="caption"><p>ACTFEL Conference, Philadelphia, November 2024</p></div></div>
<p>I support participants by creating a learning environment where they feel both challenged and comfortable. My goal is to give them the confidence to use Russian actively, even from the very beginning.</p>
<p>First, I provide clear structure and consistent feedback. Students always know what we are working toward, what they’ve already mastered, and what they can improve. I give explanations that match their learning style and offer individualized guidance when they need extra support.</p>
<p>Second, I’m always available for questions—whether about grammar, local customs, or everyday life in a Russian-speaking environment. Many students study abroad with us for the first time, so I see it as part of my responsibility to help them feel at home. I assist with practical matters, share cultural tips, and encourage them to explore the city and interact with native speakers.</p>
<p>Finally, I support students emotionally. Learning a challenging language far from home can be stressful, and sometimes all a student needs is reassurance that their struggles are normal. I remind them of their progress, celebrate their successes, and help them stay motivated.</p>
<p>Overall, I aim to be not only a teacher but also a mentor—someone they can rely on academically, culturally, and personally throughout their learning journey.</p>
<h3>Why is it important for people to travel abroad and experience new cultures?</h3>
<p>Traveling abroad and experiencing new cultures is essential because it broadens perspectives, fosters empathy, and builds a deeper understanding of the world.</p>
<p>Immersing yourself in a different culture challenges assumptions, encourages adaptability, and strengthens communication skills. It also provides the opportunity to form meaningful connections, appreciate diversity, and gain experiences that inspire personal and professional growth.</p>
<p>Ultimately, travel cultivates openness, curiosity, and the ability to engage confidently with people from all walks of life.</p>
<h3>What does meaningful travel mean to you?</h3>
<p>Meaningful travel, to me, is about immersing yourself in new cultures, learning from people, and gaining experiences that leave a lasting impact.</p>
<p>It’s not just about visiting places, but about connecting with local communities, understanding different perspectives, and growing personally through those encounters. Meaningful travel inspires curiosity, empathy, and a deeper appreciation for the diversity and richness of the world.</p>


Larisa Romanchuk	

Get to know the people behind Learn Russian in the European Union! Check out this GoAbroad Staff Interview with Larisa Romanchuk	.

Larisa Romanchuk	 | Learn Russian in the European Union

Learn Russian in the European Union

Learn Russian in the European Union Staff Interview with Larisa Romanchuk	

<h4>What inspired you to work for <a title="undefined" href=https://www.goabroad.com/providers/learn-russian-in-the-european-union rel="" target="_self" class="clickTracker" rev="domainID=0&amp;refererType=1&amp;refererID=3393&amp;abbreviation=CSCT&amp;clientID=52627" data-ga-client="Learn Russian in the European Union" data-contentlink=""><ins>Learn Russian in the European Union</ins></a>?</h4>
<p>I chose this organization because of its commitment to language learning and cultural understanding.</p>
<p>I believe education builds bridges between people, and here I can help students connect, communicate, and grow confidently in a supportive, engaging environment every day with purpose and care in a friendly environment.</p>
<div class="awesome-image centered " ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1767926044/images2/interviews/VaoESlot5Ee37YSMgqjrITgp60Oab5vbHZikK2Wz.jpg" alt="A group of people posing together in a classroom."><div class="caption"><p>On ERASMUS trip to Portugal</p></div></div>
<h4>What is your favorite part of your job?</h4>
<p>My favorite part of my job is witnessing the moment when the language “clicks” for a student. Russian can feel intimidating at first, but there is a point when students begin to think in the language rather than translate—and seeing that transformation is incredibly rewarding.</p>
<p>I also love the personal connections that naturally form in the classroom. Every student brings their own motivations, cultural background, and learning style, and getting to know them allows me to tailor lessons in a way that supports their growth. After twenty years at Learn Russian in the EU, I can say that no two days have ever been the same.</p>
<p>Another part I truly enjoy is integrating culture into the learning process—whether through discussions of literature, music, or everyday life in the Russian-speaking world. Language and culture are inseparable, and helping students experience that connection is always a highlight of my work.</p>
<h4>What challenges do you often face and how do you overcome them?</h4>
<p>One of the biggest challenges is helping students stay confident as they progress through the more complex aspects of Russian—cases, aspect, verb prefixes, and pronunciation can all feel overwhelming.</p>
<p>Over the years, I’ve learned that the best way to handle this is to break concepts down into manageable steps and provide plenty of structured practice. I also remind students that making mistakes is a natural and essential part of language learning.</p>
<p>Another challenge is adapting to the varied learning styles and backgrounds students bring to the classroom. Some learn quickly through conversation, while others prefer grammar-focused explanations or visual materials. To overcome this, I use a flexible approach: I combine communicative activities, cultural content, grammar explanations, and real-life tasks so that every student can engage in a way that works for them.</p>
<p>Finally, motivation can sometimes fluctuate, especially during longer programs. To keep students engaged, I emphasize practical achievements—like ordering a meal, holding a short conversation, or understanding a local news segment. Celebrating these small victories helps students see their progress clearly and stay enthusiastic.</p>
<p>These challenges aren’t obstacles—they’re opportunities to refine my teaching and support each student more effectively. After twenty years in the field, they’ve become a rewarding part of the job.</p>
<div class="awesome-image centered " ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1767926045/images2/interviews/f0cbWSPHVTECDxJiGuJ1jr3ceKkaTlloDspy9oqP.jpg" alt="Crowd gathers before Daugavpils University with blue and yellow lighting."><div class="caption"><p>Daugavpils University</p></div></div>
<h4>What advice would you tell your pre-travel self?</h4>
<p>Don’t worry so much about fitting in. You already belong to the world you’re going to see. Trust yourself and trust the journey.</p>
<p>Let curiosity guide you, welcome new connections, savor small moments, breathe deeply, take photos, journal often, and remember each step reveals who you are becoming. Enjoy your every moment.</p>
<h4>Why should someone choose Learn Russian in the European Union over competitors?</h4>
<p>Our organization stands out for its commitment to high-quality language education and cultural understanding.</p>
<p>We provide personalized support, meaningful learning experiences, and a welcoming environment that helps students grow, build confidence, and develop real-world communication skills in the city where language is spoken by almost everyone.</p>
<h4>What is Learn Russian in the European Union's mission, and how do you continue to work toward it?</h4>
<p>Our mission is to provide high-quality language education while fostering cultural understanding.</p>
<p>We work toward it by offering engaging, personalized learning experiences, supporting students’ growth, and continuously improving our teaching methods to meet diverse needs. We value each and every one of our students.</p>
<h4>What do you hope participants take away from your programs?</h4>
<p>I hope participants gain confidence in communication, a deeper understanding of language and culture, and practical skills they can apply in real life. I want them to leave inspired, curious, and motivated to continue learning, connecting, and growing with others.</p>
<p>Besides that, I hope they really enjoy the time with us.</p>
<h4>Why is it important for people to travel abroad and experience new cultures?</h4>
<p>Traveling abroad and experiencing new cultures broadens perspectives, fosters empathy, and helps people see the world beyond their own experiences.</p>
<p>It encourages personal growth, adaptability, and an appreciation for diversity, creating more open-minded, connected, and thoughtful individuals. The more people know about the world the better the world gets.</p>
<h4>Why do you think learning a new language is important?</h4>
<p>Learning a new language is important because it expands a person’s world in ways that few other skills can.</p>
<p>A language is not just vocabulary and grammar—it is a key to understanding how people think, communicate, and experience life. When students learn Russian, for example, they gain access to a rich cultural, historical, and literary heritage that cannot be fully appreciated through translation alone.</p>
<p>Language learning also develops essential cognitive skills. It improves memory, enhances problem-solving abilities, and strengthens the ability to understand different perspectives. I’ve seen students become more confident, flexible, and curious simply by engaging with a new linguistic system.</p>
<div class="awesome-image centered " ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1767926046/images2/interviews/cg1gqlMKgNkjuhNjJODMIn61CsuYa3ZANqy2mjgq.jpg" alt="Large group posing with a "Learn Russian in the European Union" banner"><div class="caption"><p>Summer 2022</p></div></div>
<p>On a practical level, another language opens doors. It can create academic opportunities, make travel more meaningful, and broaden professional possibilities in fields such as diplomacy, business, science, and international cooperation.</p>
<p>Most importantly, learning a new language builds connections. It helps people communicate across borders, appreciate cultural differences, and find common ground. In today’s world, those human connections are more valuable than ever.</p>
<p>That is why teaching languages has been my passion for so many years—and why I encourage every student to embrace the challenge and the joy of learning one.</p>
<h4>What does meaningful travel mean to you?</h4>
<p>Meaningful travel, to me, is about more than visiting new places—it’s about connecting with people, immersing yourself in different cultures, and learning from every experience. It’s an opportunity to grow personally, broaden perspectives, and carry those lessons into everyday life and interactions.</p>


Alyona Savelyeva	

Get to know the people behind Learn Russian in the European Union! Check out this GoAbroad Staff Interview with Alyona Savelyeva	.

Alyona Savelyeva	 | Learn Russian in the European Union

Learn Russian in the European Union Staff Interview with Alyona Savelyeva	

María José Gómez Durán

Get to know the people behind Spanish Institute for Global Education! Check out this GoAbroad Staff Interview with María José Gómez Durán.

María José Gómez Durán | Spanish Institute for Global Education

Spanish Institute for Global Education

Spanish Institute for Global Education Staff Interview with María José Gómez Durán

<h4>What inspired you to work for <a title="undefined" href=https://www.goabroad.com/providers/nacel-international rel="" target="_self" class="clickTracker" rev="domainID=0&amp;refererType=1&amp;refererID=3391&amp;abbreviation=CSCT&amp;clientID=16057" data-ga-client="Nacel International" data-contentlink=""><ins>Nacel Educational Travel</ins></a>?</h4>
<p>Travel truly transformed my life—it broadened my perspective, helped me learn new languages, and allowed me to connect with people from all over the world.</p>
<p>One of the most meaningful outcomes of studying abroad was meeting my husband while learning Spanish in Guatemala. These unforgettable experiences shaped who I am today. That’s why I chose to work in this field: so I can help other students create their own life-changing memories and gain the confidence, skills, and cultural awareness that only international experiences can offer.</p>
<div class="awesome-image centered " ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1767922859/images2/interviews/rVitWpyI7yqTcBQsw3mLw8eq26ktmuQdkdWmU4Qp.jpg" alt="A group of women walking through a covered arcade with red brick arches and columns"><div class="caption"><p>At our summer camp in Paris</p></div></div>
<h4>How do you use your education and international background in your current role?</h4>
<p>My international background strongly influences the way I work. I previously led a small school where we taught Dutch as a mother tongue, and that experience taught me how essential language learning is for children. But I also saw that learning a language in a classroom is not the same as living it.</p>
<p>That realization inspired me to make a change. Today, in my role, I draw on both my education and my own time abroad to help students experience learning in a way that is immersive, meaningful, and unforgettable.</p>
<h4>What are some current projects you are working on?</h4>
<p>Right now, I’m focusing on expanding our summer camp options and introducing even more immersive programs to our offer, including private teacher experiences and new cultural learning formats.</p>
<p>Creating meaningful opportunities for students to grow, explore, and learn makes my work incredibly rewarding. I truly love what I do, and it’s why I come to work with a smile every single day, feeling motivated and inspired to keep improving our programs.</p>
<h4>What advice would you tell your pre-travel self?</h4>
<div class="awesome-image right-aligned wrap-mobile" ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1767922860/images2/interviews/XNbwbL0h14zJZojKN5upNH4mzNVZHrRRIpX9kNqr.jpg" alt="professionally dressed woman smiling on an event booth"><div class="caption"><p>Attending an travel event in Rome</p></div></div>
<p>I would tell myself not to worry too much about speaking perfectly or knowing exactly what to expect.</p>
<p>Travel is about learning, growing, and embracing new cultures. Mistakes, challenges, and surprises are all part of the experience—and they are what make you stronger, more confident, and more connected to the world.</p>
<h4>What makes Nacel Educational Travel special?</h4>
<p>What makes our organization special is our commitment to creating meaningful, personal, and life-changing international learning experiences.</p>
<p>Unlike large, standardized travel or education providers, we take a boutique approach. This means every student receives individual guidance, careful program matching, and ongoing support before, during, and after their experience abroad.</p>
<p>We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all education—every learner is unique, and so should their journey be. Our team is truly international and multilingual. We speak English, French, Spanish, Portuguese, and Dutch, and we have lived, studied, or worked abroad ourselves. This firsthand experience allows us to relate to students, understand their expectations or worries, and support them with empathy and expertise.</p>
<p>We know what a powerful and transformative moment studying abroad can be, and we are proud to help students take that step—whether for one week, one semester, or several years.</p>
<h4>Why should someone choose Nacel Educational Travel over competitors?</h4>
<p>Choose us because we offer personalized support, not generic placement. Our multilingual team has studied abroad and truly understands the journey.</p>
<p>With trusted partners and our own accredited schools, we ensure high-quality education, safety, and real cultural immersion—creating meaningful, life-changing experiences.</p>
<h4>What is Nacel Educational Travel’s mission and how do you continue to work toward it?</h4>
<p>Our mission is to help students become confident global citizens through language learning and cultural immersion.</p>
<p>We work toward this by offering high-quality programs, partnering with trusted schools and host families, and providing personalized support to ensure every experience is safe, meaningful, and transformative.</p>
<h4>What do you hope participants take away from your programs?</h4>
<p>We hope students come home with better language skills, more confidence, and a genuine feel for another culture. Also, we want them to grow more independent, understand the world around them, and create friendships that last.</p>
<p>We aim to help every student grow into someone open-minded, curious, and ready to take part in a connected world.</p>
<div class="awesome-image left-aligned wrap-mobile" ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1767922860/images2/interviews/UmhzDq0GMFkeLC7PGsFEf2ge4A7oiuYCscGPjv6E.jpg" alt="A person on a viewing platform overlooking a temple in Guatemala."><div class="caption"><p>Traveling to Guatemala</p></div></div>
<h4>How do you help support participants?</h4>
<p>Nacel supports students from the moment they consider a program until they return home, ensuring they feel safe, guided, and encouraged. We start with honest advice, helping them choose destinations, programs, and stays to avoid surprises and give families peace of mind.</p>
<p>Preparation involves guiding students through documents, travel details, school requirements, and cultural expectations, so they're ready before traveling. Parents also receive practical info.</p>
<p>Upon arrival, local coordinators welcome students, assist with settling in, and stay in touch, understanding local culture, schools, and families to provide ongoing support. Host families and schools create safe environments, routines, and aid adaptation, with teachers focusing on academics.</p>
<p>We have clear procedures and experienced staff to handle issues like travel delays, placement concerns, or personal matters swiftly to ensure student safety. Our goal is for students to return with improved language skills, independence, new friends, and a broader worldview.</p>
<p>Our comprehensive support promotes confidence, learning, exploration, and enjoyment abroad, making Nacel a trusted partner for safe, meaningful international experiences.</p>
<h4>If you could participate in one of Nacel Educational Travel’s programs, where would you go and what would you do?</h4>
<p>If I could join one of our programs, I would choose a Private Teacher Homestay in France. I speak French well because I learned it through immersion and from working in the mountains, but I never learned to write it properly.</p>
<p>Living with a teacher would give me the quiet focus I need to work on my written French each day. I’d like a mix of grammar, structured writing practice, and real-life exercises that help me write with more confidence. Staying with a local family would add something extra, because I’d still enjoy the everyday French conversations that helped me learn the language in the first place.</p>
<p>This mix of personal teaching and daily immersion feels perfect for improving the one part of my French that still needs work.</p>
<h4>Why is it important for people to travel abroad and experience new cultures?</h4>
<p>Traveling abroad gives people a chance to step out of their usual routine and see how others live. It makes you notice new ways of thinking, speaking, and solving problems. When you meet people from a different culture, you start to understand their habits and values instead of judging them from a distance.</p>
<p>Learning this way builds patience and empathy. It becomes easier to handle new situations, adapt to change, and feel comfortable in unfamiliar places. Many people also discover more about themselves when they are far from home. They gain confidence, learn to trust their own decisions, and see what they are capable of.</p>
<div class="awesome-image centered " ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1767922861/images2/interviews/SePjg92pvLG4ZRnc4ZC4yD1WLcbC4EhTpkgNcVFk.jpg" alt="a black and white photo of 5 adults "><div class="caption"><p>Our Nacel Team</p></div></div>
<p>Travel also helps with language learning. Hearing and using a language every day makes progress faster and more natural. It’s something you can’t fully get from a classroom.</p>
<p>There is also the personal side: new friendships, new foods, new places, and small moments that stay with you for years. These experiences open your mind and stay useful long after the trip is over.</p>
<h4>What does meaningful travel mean to you?</h4>
<p>Meaningful travel is when a trip changes the way I see things. It’s less about checking places off a list and more about slowing down, meeting people, and understanding how they live. I like trips where I learn something new, whether it’s a language, a habit, or a small detail about daily life in another place.</p>
<p>It also means feeling present. Sharing a meal with a host family, talking with locals, or taking time to notice how a town wakes up in the morning. These moments stay with me longer than any big attraction.</p>
<p>Meaningful travel leaves me with something to carry home, like a new skill, a broader view, or a story that still feels warm months later. It’s travel that helps me grow, not just travel that fills a passport.</p>


Jojanneke de Jong

Get to know the people behind Nacel International! Check out this GoAbroad Staff Interview with Jojanneke de Jong.

Jojanneke de Jong | Nacel International Staff Interview

Nacel International

Nacel International Staff Interview with Jojanneke de Jong

<h4>What inspired you to go abroad?</h4>
<p>Studying abroad was not a part of my original 4-year plan. I'd anticipate joining campus clubs, meeting new people and making lifelong friendships, and maintaining a GPA of 3.5 or higher. Though, as we know, life never goes as planned.</p>
<p>After a rough summer post-freshman year and a summer of stunted growth post-sophomore year, I decided that the next summer I embarked on would have to be daunting. I owed it to myself to create a summer experience that was better than the years prior.</p>
<p>Through research and some inspirational TikTok videos, I came across the idea of studying abroad for a summer semester. As it aligned with my academic goals, and I was offered a full-ride scholarship, my plan came to fruition.</p>
<div class="awesome-image right-aligned wrap-mobile" ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1767920754/images2/interviews/vtYQOeYH18Bl09xDIUjiZaqbExkWhSHjenC0Wd7J.jpg" alt="Woman smiling with the London Tower Bridge behind"><div class="caption"><p>Tower Bridge</p></div></div>
<h4>Why did you choose <a title="undefined" href=https://www.goabroad.com/providers/ies-abroad rel="" target="_self" class="clickTracker" rev="domainID=6&amp;refererType=1&amp;refererID=3390&amp;abbreviation=CSCT&amp;clientID=107" data-ga-client="IES Abroad" data-contentlink=""><ins>IES Abroad</ins></a>?</h4>
<p>I'd heard good things about IES Abroad from a TikToker I follow, Hali Jama. In one post, IES Abroad was a provider mentioned who was more than generous in offering her the amount of money needed to attend a semester in Barcelona. Coming from a financially challenging background, the idea of going abroad with an organization that prioritized my financial needs was a top priority for me.</p>
<p>As a Black woman, I also loved that IES Abroad was a diverse organization. In terms of finances, diversity, and length abroad, IES Abroad hit all the points for me. It was a no-brainer to choose them when I embarked on a <a title="undefined" href=https://www.goabroad.com/providers/ies-abroad/programs/ies-abroad-london-summer-uk-today-3905 rel="" target="_self" class="clickTracker" rev="domainID=6&amp;refererType=1&amp;refererID=3390&amp;abbreviation=CSCT&amp;clientID=107" data-ga-client="IES Abroad" data-contentlink=""><ins>summer abroad journey</ins></a> then.</p>
<h4>What was your favorite part about London?</h4>
<p>My favorite part about my host city was the tube! I'm from New York, but the trains I'm used to for commuting are not as aesthetically pleasing or safe as I would like.</p>
<p>While riding the tube, whether alone or with others, I felt safe and content. I only got lost once on my 3-week journey of navigating the system, and for that, I can say it's more than accessible and easy!</p>
<h4>What made your experience abroad extraordinary?</h4>
<p>Meeting people from a wide range of backgrounds through the Goin' app made the experience abroad extraordinary. Unlike many others in the programs, I went in alone and relied on the app to connect with others before arriving in my host city.</p>
<p>I was able to meet a ton of people who were attending the same program and hang out with them, making connections I wouldn't have been able to otherwise.</p>
<h4>How did local staff support you throughout your program?</h4>
<p>Local staff made sure to plan events for all students to partake in. There was rarely a moment when one had to be inside unless there was class.</p>
<p>Events would range in timing and location. You could really tell that everyone wanted to make the summer experience a great one, and although I didn't attend many events hosted by local staff, my friends who did really enjoyed themselves.</p>
<div class="awesome-image left-aligned wrap-mobile" ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1767920755/images2/interviews/kfQeAY9v1VV6VU0g6UdMwqWQsq2OykS4TWfm1nXq.jpg" alt="Fish and chips on a dining table."><div class="caption"><p>Fish and Chips</p></div></div>
<h4>What's one thing you wish you would have done differently during your time abroad?</h4>
<p>During my time abroad, I wish I'd brought different clothing. I attempted to fit in with the locals by wearing attire that reminded me of their culture, but ended up feeling very uncomfortable and inauthentic.</p>
<p>If I could turn back time, I'd pack clothes that made me feel more like myself, and leave room in my suitcase for shopping, should I have desired British apparel when I arrived.</p>
<h4>Describe what a typical day in your life abroad looked like.</h4>
<p>I'd wake up around 7:45 am on weekdays to get ready for my 10 am class. During that time, I'd brush my teeth, do my hair, and get dressed for the day. I'd fix up my bedsheets and eat a small meal before 9:00am and then head towards the nearest tube station.</p>
<p>It was about a 7-minute walk from my residence. The commute itself wasn't too long, maybe 20-30 mins. I'd then walk 5 minutes to my classroom building and be in class from 10 am to 5 pm, with an hour-long lunch break in between.</p>
<p>After class, I'd hang out with those I conversed with through Goin', sightseeing around London, and checking things off my study abroad bucket list.</p>
<h4>What did you enjoy doing during your free time abroad?</h4>
<p>During my time abroad, I really enjoyed visiting local markets and checking off items on my London explore list.</p>
<p>I'd visit The British Museum, the Notting Hill neighborhood, the Tower Bridge, and even take an Uberboat across the River Thames.</p>
<p>I would also hang out with a friend I met on the Goin' app, exploring Chinatown and many more attractions and landmarks with her.</p>
<h4>What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?</h4>
<p>I was placed in a hotel about 30 minutes from my host university. My roommate and I shared a bunk bed with a private bathroom and kitchen area.</p>
<p>The best part about our accommodation was the kitchen. If either of us were too tired to go out or wanted to save money, we could easily cook breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and be satisfied.</p>
<h4>What is one thing every future participant should know about your program before their program begins?</h4>
<p>Every future participant should know that IES Abroad is an organization that prides itself on helping its students, whether that be financially, academically, physically, or psychologically.</p>
<p>As long as you inform them of your needs, they'll do their best to assist you. Just make sure to communicate with the staff assigned to you. They're there to help!</p>
<div class="awesome-image right-aligned wrap-mobile" ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1767920756/images2/interviews/vPPHnkWxrur91LAPCFwfEppzMipBJU1FbRRYekAi.jpg" alt="Woman on bridge looking at Big Ben"><div class="caption"><p>London Eye</p></div></div>
<h4>Would you recommend IES Abroad to others? Why?</h4>
<p>I would recommend IES Abroad to others because of their generosity.</p>
<p>In my initial experience with the organization, I was met with many supportive staff members who guided me in the application process and were there to answer all of my questions, small or big.</p>
<p>My second experience with them wasn't as positive as I'd hoped, given my first one, but they're still a provider that is exemplary in comparison to others.</p>
<h4>What do you feel the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is?</h4>
<p>The biggest benefit of traveling abroad is the opportunity to gain international knowledge.</p>
<p>When one grows up in a specific country for most of their life, they adapt to one way of living. Studying abroad challenges that and forces one to embrace differing values, cultures, and expectations.</p>
<h4>Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?</h4>
<p>My time abroad has truly impacted my life in ways I never imagined.</p>
<p>I was a person who didn't have many friends prior to my experience, but I am now incredibly lucky to have two friends whom I met along the way. We're all long-distance, but their friendships are worth it, and have shown me that love knows no distance.</p>
<h4>What does meaningful travel mean to you?</h4>
<p>To travel meaningfully means to travel at one's own capacity, exploring at one's own pace and discretion while also making the most of every waking moment.</p>
<p>It means going beyond one's limits and embracing new opportunities as they present themselves. Traveling is a privilege, and to truly enjoy it is to make it meaningful.</p>


Makayla Ross

Check out this GoAbroad Interview with Makayla Ross who participated in IES Abroad program.

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