API: Experience Granada, Spain (Scholarships Available)

Living in Granada and taking classes through API's study abroad program was hands down the best six months of my life. I attended classes with students from around the world, and the courses varied in both subject matter and level of rigor. This allowed me to experience different styles of Spanish education and challenge myself academically. Studying abroad completely changed the way I view life, people, and different cultures. My experience in Granada helped me develop a new level of confidence through solo travel, learning a new language, navigating an unfamiliar city, finding new friends from new backgrounds, and growing through countless trial-and-error moments. The skills and perspective I gained are invaluable, and I know they will continue to shape the person I become. API provided what felt like an unlimited amount of support and resources, including guidance on health, travel, academics, local recommendations, news, and cultural festivals. Even in a completely new environment, I never felt lost or unsupported.

Studying abroad with API was the best possible way to spend a semester in college! A few things I loved in particular about Granada & API: (1) Support offered by resident directors: whether you need help changing your courses on the first week of class or just need someone to talk to, they are always there and are the sweetest people you’ll ever meet. (2) Host family: they were so welcoming and always made me feel at home; it also gave me the chance to practice the language far more than I would’ve been able to living in a dorm or apartment with other exchange students. (3) City: Granada is a fascinating mix of old and new, big and small, and full of the most beautiful spots that look like they’re straight out of a movie. (4) Travel: Granada also allows you to travel easily; you can take the two hour Alsa bus ride to the Málaga airport to find flights headed almost anywhere you can imagine, or explore one of the countless day trips just a bus or train ride away. Overall, I can’t recommend studying abroad in Granada with API enough. I can assure you that you’ll return with broadened global perspectives and memories that will last a lifetime.

My time in Granada, Spain, was the most incredible experience in my entire life. It became a home to me. To start, API (specifically my API instructors Curra and Carmen) made the trip so easy and fun. They were there to pick us up from the airport as soon as the study abroad group arrived and made sure to drop us off safely on our last day. They planned excursions to places around Spain such as Sevilla, Cabo de Gata, and Cadiz. All of these trips included guided tours and the ability to explore the cities on our own. Not to mention these trips were some of the most fun days of the trip. Besides the planned excursions, my friends of the study abroad group and I LOVED to travel around Spain, and also to different countries!! I traveled to 5 different countries during my time in Spain, and at least 10 different cities in Spain. It was incredibly safe, cheap, and easy to travel to these places, and I loved becoming so immersed in other cultures. Along with all the fun and traveling, I still did have school. I LOVED school (I never thought I would hear myself say that)! All the teachers at la Universidad de Granada were incredible and I had such a fun learning experience. All of the classes available were primarily Spain based, which was really cool because it really broadened my knowledge of Spain. I can't leave a review without talking about my host family. My host mother and two sisters became real family to me. My mother made me three meals a day (that were SO YUMMY) and I would hang out with my sisters constantly. I became so much more advanced in terms of speaking Spanish too since I spoke it around my home. I 100% recommend to anyone to please study abroad, it will be the best decision you have ever made.

My study abroad experience in Granada, Spain was life-changing. I studied abroad in Granada my freshman year of college, which was at first a very nerve-wracking experience, however, throughout the entire process, API was there to support me and provided me with all of the information I needed to succeed. With the help of this program, I was able to overcome so many of my fears and take part in an experience that opened doors I couldn't begin to understand before I traveled abroad. Ultimately, this experience has opened my eyes to the different ways in which cultures unlike mine are organized and has shaped me into a more independent, self-driven person.

Before my time in Granada, I felt nowhere near ready to start College. Watching my friends struggling to adapt to classes, make friends, and have a positive mindset terrified me. I am forever grateful to Granada for giving me an excellent academic base to prepare me for my higher level classes and for fostering my personal growth. One class that challenged me but kickstarted my passion for Politics was The Politics of Spain and the EU. Thanks to this class, I'm now a Political Science major! My professor cared about our learning and challenged us to think deeply about how democracy acts differently in Spain and in the U.S. Not to mention, the building where we took classes was stunning. One of the most meaningful API activities was a language exchange with local students learning English. I jumped into something that made me uncomfortable, and ended up creating friends and finding similarities with people in a completely different culture. Finally, towards the end of my semester I felt like a local. I miss my routine walk to school, listening to my favorite Spanish music, and my morning tea before class at the local coffee shop. I owe it to Granada and API because I was able to start my first semester at my home University with confidence and maturity.

Before my time in Granada, I felt nowhere near ready to start College. Watching my friends struggling to adapt to classes, make friends, and have a positive mindset terrified me. I am forever grateful to Granada for giving me an excellent academic base to prepare me for my higher level classes and for fostering my personal growth. One class that challenged me but kickstarted my passion for Politics was The Politics of Spain and the EU. Thanks to this class, I'm now a Political Science major! My professor cared about our learning and challenged us to think deeply about how democracy acts differently in Spain and in the U.S. Not to mention, the building where we took classes was stunning. One of the most meaningful API activities was a language exchange with local students learning English. I jumped into something that made me uncomfortable, and ended up creating friends and finding similarities with people in a completely different culture. Finally, towards the end of my semester I felt like a local. I miss my routine walk to school, listening to my favorite Spanish music, and my morning tea before class at the local coffee shop. I owe it to Granada and API because I was able to start my first semester at my home University with confidence and maturity.

From the moment I started college I knew I wanted to study abroad. I have never been very independent or outgoing but I always longed to experience life in another country. When I arrived in Spain I did not know anyone else on the API program and I had only spoken with my host family once. Honestly, those first few days were full of doubts, if I had made the wrong decision in coming, if I’d ever feel comfortable in my new surroundings, and just wondering why this had always been so important to me. Then, classes started and my professors immediately made it clear that these classes were not going to be easy A’s, and I loved it. They fully immersed us in everything they wanted us to know about Spain and its history. I fell into a routine with classes, met people from so many different states, and most importantly my host family became a second family to me. Whether it was during our daily lunch and dinners, or going to the horse ranch with them over the weekends, every moment was full of laughter and new experiences that made me see the beauty of the Spanish culture and the kindness these complete strangers were sharing with me. My program directors were always available to talk, about anything and everything, especially Curra. I joked once that my host mother only cooked fried foods, and she even offered to talk to her about incorporating more vegetables. I speak fluent Spanish, but that didn’t stop her from scheduling my doctors appointment and accompanying me when I didn’t feel well. I met so many amazing people on this program, many that I still talk to today, even more than a year after its end. I was able to visit my host family in their countryside home this past summer, and they treated me as if I had never left. The fridge was even stocked with almond milk when I arrived (they only ever drank whole milk). Granada and this program will forever have a special place in my heart because I learned more about myself than I have my entire life. I only hope that more people get to study abroad too, and experience everything that the world outside of our home towns has to offer.

I chose to study abroad in Granada because of the beautiful views, great weather and interesting culture that this city has. There was a mix of Spanish culture like flamenco dancing and Arabic culture. One of the most traveled to destinations in Spain is the Alhambra, built by Muslims, which is in the center of the city. It was really cool learning about how both of these cultures were celebrated and joined together to make this amazing city. Granada was also the perfect size and easy to navigate, there was lots to do and learn. From shopping at the different European clothing stores to local vendors to visiting the beautiful Cathedrals in this city and walking the neighborhoods in the Albaicin. The weather was always sunny and warm (it only rained once during 3 months I studied there) which made it even more enjoyable to walk and explore the city. The city was lively and vibrant with locals, students and tourists exploring the city as well. Granada also has a lot of great food and restaurant options! One of my favorite parts about this city were the Tapas, a small plate of food that comes with the purchase of any drink. If you love trying new foods you should study here, Spain in general has a lot of different cuisine ranging from sea food to potato dishes. Granada was such an easy place to call home because of the friendly locals, upbeat but not overwhelming vibe of the city and beautiful scenery! The sunsets here are some of the most beautiful I have ever seen in the world!

Studying abroad in Granada, Spain was an unforgettable experience - where I truly lived a life different from anything I had known before. Majoring in Environmental Science, I always studied Europe as the model for sustainable cultures and cities, and living in it has completely changed my perspective on the matter. With reliable public transportation (metros, trams, buses) and infrastructure that prioritized the pedestrian over a car, I learned to love walking places. The beautiful Moorish architecture, flowering orange trees, and miradors overlooking the Alhambra and Sacromonte made the walk even better. As a freshman, studying abroad felt daunting, but the API staff was supportive every step of the way. I couldn't have been placed with a better host family either - they were patient and helpful and always made me feel comfortable as I navigated the cultural differences and improved my Spanish. One of my favorite memories is traveling with my host family to their pueblo and trying fresh almonds for the first time on their farm. In terms of academics, I do wish the courses were more academically challenging, but it was very easy to connect with professors and get involved in class. I love the small class size and the focus on in-class-discussions over homework assignments. Other than the culture, Spanish food was one of my favorite parts of my time there. As a vegetarian, I was worried about not having many choices to eat - but restaurants and my host family accommodated me with my favorites: vegetarian paellas, dozens of types of croquetas, and spinach soups. If I wanted to try something new, Granada has a grand selection of international cuisine - including ramen, empanadas, and pasta. In terms of dessert, Spanish chocolate is top tier. With "panaderias" on every corner, I had many chances to discover the best "napolitanas de chocolate" (which is Casita del Pan).

Granada was the best city I could have chosen to study abroad in! It's the perfect size; you can walk everywhere you need, while also having the metro to take you to the bus or train station. With the Alhambra being Granada's claim to fame, there are people from all different countries always visiting the city. It has the perfect mix of old and new while also having incredible Moorish influences throughout the entire city. I was finishing my Spanish minor while I was there, so I was enrolled in five courses related to Spanish history, grammar, and language. Also, most people only spoke Spanish, so I was really forced to learn the language in and outside of the classroom. I was super nervous before arriving but by the time I had to leave Granada I was able to communicate with anyone. The class sizes are very small so you’re able to practice your Spanish a lot and form great relationships with your professors. The classes were awesome, and the Center for Modern Language is in an adorable Spanish style building. Overall, my experience in Granada is something I will always remember, and I can’t wait to go back.

Studying abroad in Granada was a semester that I could only have dreamed of. Being immersed in such a unique culture was life-changing. I was able to make connections that I have maintained even after my time abroad. Living with a host family not only allowed me to improve my Spanish, but also develop meaningful relationships with my second family. Living with a family enabled me to find the best places to visit, shop, and get tapas (appetizers or small plates that are very popular in Granada). I was also able to meet wonderful people through language exchanges and during spontaneous conversations walking through the street or during trips around the city. API also encouraged us to travel and immerse ourselves through the exchanges as well as trips to other cities in Spain and countries throughout Europe. Furthermore, studying abroad and solo traveling enabled me to learn more about myself as well as embrace the diverse cultures that I had the pleasure of experiencing. While studying abroad promoted academic/linguistic growth, it is so beneficial for personal growth and self-transformation. I will always be grateful for the privilege of studying abroad with API. They provided me with the support and resources needed to explore and learn as I became more familiar with the Spanish culture. I strongly recommend not only studying abroad, but enjoying new environments and making memories/relationships that will truly last a lifetime.

I cannot put into words how thankful I am for API and the experiences they allowed me to have. I felt fully emerged in Spanish culture and had the time of my life getting to know the city of Granada and participating in their cultural events/activities, traveling across the country on interesting, educational, and exciting excursions, and improving my Spanish immensely. I would recommend this program to anyone because you are guaranteed to have an amazing time, have so many unforgettable adventures, learn a LOT at University, and feel supported and safe with the program coordinators Curra and Carmen- I miss both of them dearly, they have the biggest hearts!!!! I could not have asked for a better or more memorable experience :)

My study abroad experience included traveling the Granada, Spain during the summer. This was a perfect option for me because as a student with a heavy course curriculum, it was hard to find a time to study abroad during the semester months. From the beginning, API provided us with a tremendous amount of support and information about our journey. They contacted us before hand to make sure that we knew where the shuttle would meet and we all met in Madrid, Spain before our journey to Granada, Spain began. What is truly unique about this program is that they have pre-scheduled trips included in your study abroad experience which are truly amazing! As a student who was traveling abroad for the first time, it was helpful to have guides and pre-planned trips included. In addition, there were plenty of available weekends and opportunities to explore the local city and to visit nearby cities. If you ever had a question about what countries were safe to visit, where to go, or what to see the staff always provided us with amazing resources! I highly recommend this program. The experience is 1 in a million.

I studied abroad in Granada Spain of my spring semester of 2018. The API Granada staff is absolutely dedicated to their students. When I arrived in Madrid Spain for the start of the program & first excursion I was greeted warmly and at the moment I already knew I was home for the next six months. I would soon find out over the next six months Granada Spain, API staff, my host mother, and abroad friends would be my forever home. Granada is located between the beaches of Spain and the mountains of Sierra Nevada. Granada is a walking city and has a local bus station you can easily purchase a bus ticket to any area of Spain. A small airport is also located in the city as well; if you’re looking to travel outside of Spain while abroad you can take a short bus ride from Granada bus station directly to Malaga Airport. Tapas are famous in Granada, and the sunset over the Alhambra is breath taking. I took 12 credits at the at the Universidad Granada ; the professors engaged you in the community & if you needed any assistance with classes API Granada staff could help navigate any concerns. You are able to take your electives in Spanish or English, as well as two additional classes solely in Spanish which you are placed according to your level of Spanish. The API Granada program was the least expensive out of all other programs I was researching, and the city life is very cheap compared to other popular known study abroad destinations of Spain. API staff had an open door policy, and was thrilled every time you stopped in the office between classes, you are never alone! If you are looking to stray away from the normal study abroad destinations, you will not regret living in Granada Spain with API!

This program was amazing! Granada is a perfect town to live in because everyone is really welcoming and it's a safe city that still offers lots of site seeing and night-life opportunities. The on-site coordinators really care about your well being and are great, funny people. I'm a Spanish major and went in with 300 level Spanish skills and had a great time! My roommate had very little Spanish skills and she still enjoyed her classes too. Classes tend to not have much homework and they're only 4 days a week. Our excursions were fantastic and when I spoke to other students in Granada with different programs we were significantly cheaper, but went on the same, or more excursions. I did the early start option and would highly recommend it since it let me warm up my Spanish before having to be put into semester classes. It also gives you more time to be immersed in the culture and travel, but don't worry people who do the semester program still get a great experience. There were 2-3 students on my program who enjoyed it so much that they decided to stay the entire year rather than just a semester! I can't recommend this enough!

Take. Me. Back. My experience in Granada, Spain was nothing but incredible. I spent months searching for the ideal program, one where I would find a "home away from home" experience and develop lasting connections along the way - while enjoying a tapa...or ten. API in Granada was that and more. The program's on-site staff become your family; they watch out for you and go absolutely out of their way to make sure your experience abroad surpasses your expectations! Granada has a magical charm to it - from the charming cobblestoned streets to the breathtaking sunsets overlooking the Alhambra, the enchanting city takes your breath away. I feel so fortunate to have experienced this with the API program. API makes sure that you have a homestay experience that caters to you! My host mom and host grandmother did not let me feel homesick, often preparing my favorite foods and always making themselves available for a Spanish lesson. :) Granada is also surrounded by the beautiful Sierra Nevada, the perfect destination for a weekend hike. The weekend excursions organized by API were loads of fun and gave you a taste of Spain's rich culture and history. I urge anyone looking to immerse themselves in a family/friend-oriented and laid back environment to visit Granada. It will surprise you in the best possible way.

I really enjoyed my semester abroad in Granada, Spain. The coordinators Carmen and Curra are amazing because they help you adjust into the culture. Not to mention, if one has any issues they typically resolve them the same day or within a few days. I recommend this program for anyone who wants a great experience in Granada! I know I do not regret my decision.

I have so much love for API! They helped me with everything I needed and I had such an amazing time. The group excursions and trips were always fun and encouraged everyone in the program to get closer to one another. I made some of my best friends and I couldn’t have without API and Granda! Best city in the world!!

My API advisers were amazing! Carmen and Curra were always there in their office, available for questions and genuine motherly care. They helped me get to the doctors, register for classes, and planned the best excursions and trips. They found me an amazing host family that took me in as their own and were always checking up on me. API was amazing program to my study abroad with and their helpful staff and advisers make the application process and the aboard experience one you will never forget!

Studying abroad is the best experience one can have.