Teens of Color Abroad

My study abroad experience in France was truly meaningful and unforgettable. After three years of studying French, I was finally able to use the language in real life, which felt very rewarding. Being in an unfamiliar environment allowed me to experience the world independently for the first time and grow more confident. I met new people from different backgrounds and built lasting connections. Painting in astonishing French landscapes was inspiring, and exploring Aix-en-Provence and Marseille helped me appreciate the culture and history. Sailing in the Mediterranean Sea was a highlight that made the experience even more special. I never even dreamed of this opportunity and would forever be thankful to TOCA.

My experience with TOCA was genuinely transformative, before the program I struggled to speak up. I didn't recognize how much that held me back. TOCA changes people by placing them in an environment based on growth and responsibility. The moment we began preparing for Spain, the program pushed me to step outside my comfort zone, allowing me to be comfortable both as student abroad and as a leader back home. TOCA gives an amazing hands-on education; with our teacher and guide we explored Spanish history, language and daily life, in a fun way that was fun, while challenging us to stay curious and think critically. It was incredible how they guided us through Seville with the utmost enthusiasm and the knowledge to teach us even the smallest details of the country. This program helped me grow socially, through living with classmates, trying amazing new food, and even communicating with the locals, with what I learned in the classroom. TOCA is a gift, it formed a supportive environment while encouraging us to learn more, leaving us important memories and skills to bring home. All in all TOCA has given me one of the most fun and educational experiences in my life.

Before immersing myself into the TOCA study abroad program I had no prior experience studying abroad. It was incredible. Studying abroad with TOCA has allowed me to meet new people, experience a new culture and GROW. TOCA's immersion program is exactly how it sounds, immersive. I spent my days in Seville, Spain with a personal homestay family and classes to go to courtesy of Centro MundoLengua. My experience living with a homestay family was different, but awesome as they are the most welcoming, kind, and supportive people you can meet. My family spoke only Spanish so obviously there were some awkward moments, but thats where the magic happens. Day by day you are able to increase and expand your vocabulary in this foreign, yet welcoming place. This is only enhanced by through the entertaining tour guides. My main tour guide Paula was so welcoming and happy to show us around the many attractions and activities in Spain. These attractions were truly breathtaking and to this day I still remember the joy and awe I felt while experiencing them the first time. All of this is topped off with the wonderful teachings of Centro MundoLengua's Juan Alberto. Learning a new language can be daunting and even difficult at times, but learning through Centro MundoLengua and having Jaun Alberto as my teacher made learning Spanish fun, interactive, and easy to digest. Overall I rate TOCA a 10/10 and if you're thinking about studying abroad they are an amazing pick.