CIEE High School Abroad

I studied in Merida, Mexico in June 2025 with CIEE on the language and culture program. From the moment I started my application, CIEE staff was available to help. They went above and beyond by calling me to ask additional questions about my allergies. Their attention to detail assuaged many of my fears about traveling as I knew the staff was prepared. My homestay enriched my experience by giving me opportunities to practice my language skills and immerse myself in Mexican culture. My favorite memory of my host mom is when she taught me how to make empanadas. Spending hours with her in the kitchen gave me unforgettable memories and valuable knowledge. Despite not knowing anyone when I went on the trip, I made friends quickly and spent most afternoons hanging out with them. Merida is very walkable and Ubers are cheap, so it was very easy to get around the city. We had student IDs and were able to get into some museums for free. I attended daily language classes and we had cultural activities every day to deepen our understanding of Mexican culture. In class, we learned practical language skills focused on conversation. By the end of the program, my Spanish speaking had improved significantly because I had so many opportunities to practice. Whether I was taking an Uber, ordering at a restaurant, or talking with my host mom, there were many opportunities to practice my Spanish. My favorite part of the trip was the overnight excursion to Chichen Itza. It was incredible seeing it in person as it had been on my bucket list for a while. We also got to see some cenotes, which were beautiful. I would definitely recommend this program to anyone looking to improve their language skills and immerse themselves in Mexican culture.

My experience with the CIEE Spanish Language and Culture Program in Palma de Mallorca was overwhelmingly positive and truly transformative. Living with a welcoming host family allowed me to experience authentic Spanish culture, try new foods, and practice my language skills daily. Taking university-level Spanish classes deepened my understanding of the language while immersing me in an academic environment abroad. Beyond the classroom, cultural activities and excursions helped me connect with the island’s history and people, creating lifelong friendships and unforgettable memories. This program not only strengthened my Spanish but also gave me a new sense of independence and appreciation for global perspectives.

My time during study abroad with CIEE was something I’ll never forget. It’s normal to be scared to fly on your own, but CIEE made it so much more acceptable and comfortable for me as we tracked with everyone else on a chaperoned flight. On your study abroad experience you are bound to make multiple friendships along the way which will make your journey so much more fun! I got to see plenty of Italian monuments and places like Venice, and the Duomo in Milan. Additionally, the experience with the host family completes it, families can be so inviting and supportive during your time abroad, I got to experience multiple memorable moments with them. Finally, if you go for language and culture you’ll be sure to learn so much as I did with Italian culture and the language, I was already speaking in three weeks because of CIEEs amazing teachers and engaging classes.