CIEE January in Madrid

I'd be likely to recommend CIEE Study Abroad to a peer for a beginner international abroad experience. The program helped guide me through traveling international and the leaders guiding us were amazing throughout the process.

Now I know what you're thinking. "The title says January but the title says summer!" I am aware, however, the program description is similar to my time abroad in the summer, and also goes to show that there are more CIEE study abroad options as well! :) With that being said, my time abroad in Madrid, Spain was great! I remember first being hesitant about fully committing to the program since there were so many things going on in the world at the time, but I decided to get out of my comfort zone and go for it. I’m extremely glad I went that route because the memories I created are now unforgettable. First is the people. Going alone was one of the reasons why I was hesitant to go abroad in the first place. I decided to just stick it out and go. Who would’ve thought that the people I met there would be so fun to hangout with, despite being in a whole different country. Conversation came easy between us all and making plans while in Madrid came smoothly. The staff at the CIEE center were really cool and easy to talk to too! If my friends or I ever had any questions, comments, concerns, or just wanted insight on where to get the best Paella from and overall tourist recommendations (as well as the hidden treasures throughout the city of course), the staff at the CIEE center never failed to provide. As for the people in Madrid, for the most part, they were all pretty friendly and helpful if we ever had directions questions or anything similar to that matter. Of course, being a woman, you’ll receive your fair share of catcalling and long stares, but truth be told, it’ll be like that wherever you go in the world. Next, comes the sightseeing and scenery. Madrid was honestly such a beautiful place. It definitely had its more traditional parts and old architecture but also provided more urban and modern areas as well. The public transportation - in reference to the metros - was SO convenient. I could literally go from one end of Madrid to the other in a short amount of time, and I honestly liked how normalized taking public transport over there is. However, something to be cautious about is pick-pocketing. Pick-pocketing is extremely common in Europe, including Madrid. In fact, my friend briefly put her cross-body bag behind her, and when she turned it back in front of her, she had her phone stolen from her bag. This was only the second day of being abroad too. On a lighter note, I’m also big when it comes to cafes, so cafe hopping is a MUST here, and I promise you will not be disappointed. Of course, while in Madrid, you have to visit well-known spots such as El Parque de Retiro, Plaza Mayor, The Royal Palace, Sol, and much more. Now the most important part, is the program itself. The class I took and was getting credit for was called Arts and Activism. Classes were Monday through Thursday, from 1:30pm to 4:30pm. My class days mainly looked like: 1) waking up at the dorm and getting ready 2) having breakfast then taking the metro down to sol 3) have class 4) then having the evening to do homework, dinner, and spend time with friends. The dorms we stayed at were really nice and acquiring transportation cards was fairly easy. One thing I wished CIEE could've done better is to reach out in regards to what to pack and bring. I had to ask previous alumni who did the same program I did what to and not to bring, as well as do my own research. I could go on about how cool this program is, but do feel free to check out for more info as well as reach out directly to me! And remember: bring your Euro-plug and/or voltage converter, a small hand-held fan, and be prepared to walk!!