University Studies Abroad Consortium

The staff in charge of the program were very helpful in trying to assist students. However for my program, there were only 2 placement groups:beginner and advanced. For me, I didn’t fit into either the groups. The advance was too hard and the beginner group was super basic. For example it only covered basic concepts such as greetings.

I had a lot of fun and got to go on trips (apart from the program, mostly) to see a lot of awesome places during the weekends this summer. I learned a lot more Spanish and improved my speaking pace, while also being able to understand a lot more and at a much quicker listening pace as well. That is the thing I think I am most proud of is my improvements with the language. But I am glad I studied abroad because it also gave me a LOT of opportunities to get out of my comfort zone and try new things. I have grown a lot as a person even in just 2 and a half months here. The nature and wildlife here are incredible and worth seeing.

Going to Bengaluru was an amazing time. I truly enjoyed the classes, the campus, and all of the inclusive cultural immersion that was included in my program. My program director was a great help at all times, and I truly consider him a great friend now. I wish I could have done an entire semester instead of just the summer program. It was a wonderful trip but it really felt too short!

San Sebastián is a great place to study abroad if you live diverse cultures and languages, great food, great wine and cider, and many more factors. Right in the heart of the Basque Country, it has much to offer. You can go out for a nice night with your friends and have Pintxos and drinks, or visit the nearby towns that hold much cultural significance. No matter what you decide to do, you won’t be disappointed!

It was the best time of my life. I was able to learn so much not only from the amazing teachers but also from the welcoming community of Alicante. The field trips were also very fun, and ended with the most beautiful views of the ocean and the city. I am forever grateful for this opportunity and genuinely encourage everyone to study abroad at one point in their college career.

Best summer I have ever had the classes were so fun especially the sailing class ! The best part was all of the new friends I made and being able to travel ever weekend with them and explore Europe! I would do it again if I could !

My study abroad trip to Shanghai was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had. The city is full of energy, with an amazing mix of modern skyscrapers and rich cultural history. Every day felt like a new adventure, whether I was exploring local markets, trying authentic Chinese food, walking along the Bund, or visiting beautiful temples and gardens. One of the most rewarding parts of the trip was experiencing a different culture firsthand and meeting people from around the world. It helped me become more independent, confident, and open-minded. I also learned so much about China’s history, traditions, and daily life in a way that you simply can’t learn from a classroom.

My fondest memories of this study abroad experience took place away from the classroom and off of campus. There was a plethora of events and activities that I was able to take part in along with friends I made in the program. The university, however, seemed to cut several corners with providing social events and the cleanliness & functionality of our accomodations, which dampened the overall experience for me.

I had a wonderful experience abroad. Roehampton University is located right outside the city of London, allowing students to experience slower everyday life while providing the fun city life of London. Beyond this, the town of Putney and Wimbledon are located very close to Roehampton, at a 45 minute walk or a 5 minute bus ride. After classes, I was able to choose between exploring local areas and the city of London. London has so much to offer, from food, culture, and more. While abroad, I was able to get cheap flights to other places such as Spain, and take a train ride to Scottland.

The five weeks that I spent in Alicante were some of the best weeks of my life. The friends I made, the experiences I had, and the things I saw are truly unimaginable. You cannot explain how life changing something like this is until you are there. I was really on the fence about going abroad and I am so incredibly grateful that I made the choice to go. This program is ran wonderfully. I loved my classes, I always felt so supported by our advisors, and we had the most wonderful landlord. If you are even considering going abroad, do it!! I will always have a special place in my heart for Alicante and my time abroad.

I've had an incredible time studying abroad in Reggio Emilia, Italy. Every day I find myself in a new adventure, meeting new people, and immersing myself in the culture here. USAC has done an incredible job at making me feel safe, supported, and comfortable. Academically, I feel scaffolded to learn new information about the community and the Reggio Emilia approach, combining the perfect mix of theoretical and practical study. Socially, this community has been an amazing place, filled with weekly events, concerts, and just a welcoming town feeling in general. This has definitely been an experience of a lifetime.

The best part about Reggio Emilia is it is not super crowded with tourists. It’s a small city full of life where you can meet Italian locals and truly immerse yourself in the culture. I loved being able walk and get gelato whenever I wanted, then explored using easy access to bus transportation to the mall and movie theater and then to the train station too. The local cuisine is also phenomenal, erbazzone is devine and each Wednesday during the summer the piazza’s are full of energy with dancing, concerts and so much more. The planned field trips were amazing from trying balsamic vinegar to even exploring a castle there is something for everyone. The support from the program directors is excellent, they were always there for all my questions and made the program feel like home.

It was a great experience and I made some good friends. Being in a new culture was very beneficial for me. I miss it already and wish I stayed for longer but I also got way to hot towards the end of the adventure.

This was the best summer and possibly expierience I have had in my life. I studied in San sebastian for 2 sessions over the summer and loved it. Met the best people who I can consider my friends for life now while learning so much. I got fully immursed in the culture here while attending so many cool events I never thought I would be able to like participating in the running of the bulls and being in spain to see the spain soccer team make it to the finals in the world cup. I learned how to surf and more importantly speak more fluent in another language. I highly recommend this program!!!

I loved my experience in Pau! I had no idea that spending 5 weeks there would alter my life forever. It opened my eyes to how different French culture is in comparison to American culture. When I was little, I idolized my mother because she was my version of the American dream. I wanted to be just as hardworking as her. Now as a college student majoring in biochemistry and minoring in French, I am expected to be ambitious. Whereas my performance looks great on resumes, I often get obsessed with the future. However, when I was in Pau I realized how the locals prioritized living instead of performing. Life is much slower there. People don't often hurry to their next location, adults enjoy parks on weekdays instead of just weekends, and folks seem to appreciate silence instead of distracting themselves with media all the time. Not only did I start adopting some of these habits, but learning a new language encouraged me to think about each word I said. I had to slow down and savor everything I was doing. It was the most present I have ever been and arguably the most I've truly lived in my life. The locals are extremely friendly and will help you learn French. The education at the University of Pau was phenomenal. I felt like being immersed in French and having professors that are willing to work with you was a game changer. I highly recommend this experience even if you don't intend on learning French. Exposing yourself to a new culture may encourage you to reflect on your own lifestyle choices.

Every person was SO helpful and supportive. Luis and Veronica were amazing and so were the professors. They did a fantastic job with the tours and trips, they were always so fun. There was also just enough time that me and my friends I made were able to explore on our own and experience the holidays and festivals Alicante had to offer.

I got to be apart of Session 1 of USAC’s summer program in Verona, Italy, and it was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had. I would highly recommend Verona to anyone considering studying abroad. The city has the perfect mix of history, culture, and a welcoming atmosphere, with beautiful architecture, amazing food, and so much to explore. I became great friends with my roommate, experienced authentic Italian culture (Including the Opera!), and had the opportunity to travel to incredible places across Italy and Europe on the weekends. Verona truly felt like a home away from home, and it’s an experience I’ll never forget!!

I decided to study abroad to better my Spanish skills while also immersing myself in Latin American culture. Costa Rica has done just that! My Spanish has improved so much, and I have been able to immerse myself firsthand in what I have learned in my Latin American Cultures classes back at my home university. I would totally recommend this immersion program!

I studied abroad in Verona, Italy with USAC for the first summer session and it was such an amazing experience from beginning to end. From the field trips to getting to immerse ourselves in the Italian culture and learning about the origins of gelato, olive oil, and so much more! I cannot recommend this program enough! Truly was such a fun and memorable six weeks.

Studying abroad in Heredia, Costa Rica was truly life changing. The program did a great job helping us fully immerse and experience life there. The host families are amazing and the country is beautiful.

Prior to my mini study abroad in Uruguay, I had never travelled so far alone. This experience allowed me to grow friendships with people I'd otherwise not likely meet. My host was incredible and she would ensure I always had what I needed, if I needed it. The class schedules were absolutely manageable, and my professor created a classroom environment that promoted civil discourse and no judgement. Montevideo is the perfect location for people seeking time on the beach, outdoor activities, and natural orange juice in all restaurants, particularly in its summer season! Moreover, the trip to Argentina creates a space for students to bond and encourages community-building among us. Overall, I'd recommend this program time and time again to anyone who is interested.

During my time in Costa Rica, I took Spanish coursework and completed an English Language Assistantship Intern at the Universidad Nacional. I assisted two classes across 3 different days, helping give writing feedback and develop their oral communication skills. In my Spanish coursework, we focused on complex grammar skills and refining our own writing styles. The home stay was farther from the University and downtown area than I would have preferred, but the taxi/uber availability was helpful.

In Pau, I had an incredible experience learning French in an international classroom, where the only shared language between all my peers and I was French. It pushed me out of my comfort zone to speak French every single day and learn new vocabulary and grammar skills. On top of that, I stayed with a wonderful host mom in the center of the historic district of Pau, literally a 3 minute walk from a medieval castle. This made it easy to explore the city and connect with local restaurants, businesses, and festivals.

I did not have the best academic experience and would recommend taking only fun classes specifically designed for exchange students, unless you are highly motivated, regardless of what your peers are doing. Other than that, my time in Sweden was one of the best experiences I have ever had. I was able to make lifelong friends, travel A LOT, and experience things in a way that is only possible during studying abroad. Vaxjo is a very clean, friendly, and convenient city, amazing for nature enthusiasts. Coming here was definitely one of the best decisions I ever made.

There was a big group trip I got taken on with people who came abroad with me from other universities in the United States. It was the Paris trip and it was something I’ve been dreaming about since I was little. I got to see the Effile tower for the first time and it was an amazing experience. I almost cried.

Studying abroad is the best decision I’ve ever made. I have been taking Spanish classes since kindergarten, but learned more in one month than I have in all my Spanish classes. I would make this decision time and time again.

I had the best time abroad last summer, session 2 of the USAC San Sebastián program. I specifically participated in the psychology portion of the program taking a positive psychology class during my time there. Although the class had some critiques, San Sebastián is the most amazing city to study abroad in. It is small enough to not feel overwhelmed but still has all the aspects of a big city that you may desire. Plus, it’s right on the beach!!

A wonderful experience! I met such incredible people and now my best friends, that I still see and travel with years later.. what you put into your experience is what you will get out of it. USAC did a great job with offering opportunities to be immersed into the culture. Verona itself was a beautiful city. Absolutely fell in love. I loved explored and learning!!

Studying abroad in Prague was the best experience of my life. I made lifelong friends, explored incredible places, and grew so much as a person. Every day felt like an adventure, and I will cherish those months forever.

I had the best time studying abroad. The people and professors were so nice and made it so worth it! I did a summer program so I did have class a little more often that I would have liked, so I didn’t get as much time to explore as I would have liked but overall it was a great experience.

i learned so much while studying abroad and living in costa rica and made many friends from all over the states while there. it was definitely something that i would recommend to anyone interested in studying abroad or thinking about it! there was definitely an adjustment that had to be made and it definitely was not easy at first but i grew so much as a person and as a student and gained confidence in my spanish speaking skills that i would not have gained otherwise.

I studied business in Cork for one semester. USAC staff were extremely helpful with everything from learning about the culture to getting medical care if needed. I had an amazing time in Cork, getting to explore Ireland's nature and (of course) local pubs and coffee shops. While I was there, I was able to visit 16 other countries. I'm glad I had the USAC community, especially when I was homesick. However, I also got to build international friendships with locals and students. I think this program is the best of both worlds -- American friends and direct enrollment at a foreign university. 1000% would recommend.

My semester in Montevideo, Uruguay, with USAC will go down as one of my favorites from undergrad. There was so much cultural immersion, ample opportunities for language acquisition, and traveling within the program and on our own time. The city was quite easy to navigate on foot, and its expansive busing system made traveling to different parts of the country just as effortless. I adored my classes and my professors even more. Notably, Pau, Trilce, and Hecsil were always eager to listen to my many questions and gave the best advice. I’d would one thousand percent recommend a semester in Montevideo if you were interested in sightseeing, practicing Spanish, and trying the best oranges. They were my most purchased grocery item for the entire semester!

I am super grateful for the support from both institutions in making the process as smooth as possible from departure to arrival and departing again. USACs preparation was surely a gift, Kookmin’s integration and support was helpful, and staff from both sides helped as much as they could!

I enjoyed my study abroad program! I felt my time there allowed me to integrate into the culture to the point that I truly saw the local culture rather than what people see as a tourist. It showed me that I can adapt quickly to assimilate the customs of the community while also still retaining my independence and sense of self. Coming back to the U.S., I came back with a better understanding of my personal identity and how different practices around the world are similar and different to where I live. This program helped me see ways I can incorporate different cultural perspectives in my career advancement and knowledge. I highly recommend this program to people that want to challenge themselves!

I thoroughly enjoyed my semester abroad in Pau. It is a beautiful city in a beautiful country. For the most part, my professors were very friendly and I feel like my French skills improved greatly. I enjoyed the walkability of the city and campus, and would love to visit again in the future. The USAC staff was supportive and I felt like I could go to them with any issues.

I spent 10 weeks in Chengdu and I wouldn't change it at all. I was able to improve my level of speaking proficiency a lot. The classes were the perfect amount of difficulty and I still had time to travel to Chongqing, Zhangjiajie, Beijing, and Xi'an on the weekends.

I was lucky learn so much about Latin America and Costa Rican culture during my time abroad. I made great friends and the program gave me the opportunity to go on really fun trips. I never would have had this experience if not USAC.

My experience in Costa Rica was truly life changing and I now have a second home! I would love to go back and maybe move there for good. Such a beautiful place and an amazing program that I am forever grateful for.

I loved living in Viterbo and one of the best parts was the kebab shop I found that was my lunch every other day it’s the thing I miss alongside the place and friends. The experience itself was amazing as well and I wish I could have gone for longer.

I studied abroad in Madrid through USAC in the Summer of 2023. The coordinators at URJC Vicálvaro and the pre-program preparations were fantastic. Group excursions covered so much, and they offered a variety of living options. The language immersion helped me earn by Global Seal of Biliteracy and I made lifelong friends.

The dorm rooms were perfect, clean and spacious. It was a nice walk to campus everyday, and I learned a lot from my professor. The students and administrators of our group were great people as well. They had group meals and traveling, which helped make it feel like family. They also encouraged us to grow in every aspect. I would do it again in a heartbeat!

My semester in Verona was the best semester of my life. I learned so much and became a much more confident and independent version of myself. The Verona program allowed me to flourish, and I was able to travel to 9 different countries, learn a language, and make lifelong friendships all while taking interesting courses. Studying abroad is the best decision you will ever make, and I am happy that my decision led me to Verona.

I honestly think studying abroad at Korea University was one of the best opportunities I have experienced! I was nervous before going, but I am so happy I went and got out of my comfort zone, which allowed me to become more independent. While in Seoul, I made amazing friends (who I still keep in touch with) and had tons of fun everyday both inside and outside of school. There was just so much to explore and I was never bored! I would totally go back again if I had the chance because it is such a great memory of mine.

My study abroad experience with USAC in Valencia exceeded every expectation I had. As a STEM student, I appreciated how well-structured and engaging the courses were—rigorous enough to feel meaningful, but flexible enough to allow exploration beyond the classroom. What made the experience truly exceptional, though, was the balance between academics and cultural immersion. Living in Valencia gave me the chance to fully engage with Spanish life. I practiced the language daily, not just in class but in markets, cafés, and conversations with locals. The food culture alone was unforgettable—from authentic paella to fresh horchata, every meal felt like part of the learning experience. USAC also organized cultural activities that made it easy to connect with the city’s history, traditions, and people. The program created a supportive environment where I could grow both academically and personally. I gained confidence navigating a new country, formed meaningful friendships, and developed a deeper appreciation for global perspectives. This experience didn’t just add to my education—it transformed how I see the world and my place in it.

I had a good study abroad experience at Massey University in Palmerston North through USAC. There was not much support when I arrived from the international programs office, and turns out the classes that I had picked were not offered at the campus I was supposed to be at (Auckland), so I moved to Palmy first week of being there (4 hour flight southbound on the North Island). I did this alone, and figured it out without much support from USAC. Additionally, there were barely any students on campus as most kiwi students attended school online, which made for a very isolating experience.

I absolutely loved my time abroad. I would do it over and over again if I could. Our program leaders were amazing and always had a local excursion for us to do. The city was amazing, the classes were good, the professors were great, and again(!) the program leaders were so so amazing. The longer weekend trips were definitely worth it and the spring break was the perfect amount of time. The only downside is that we don't have a ton of immersion or interactions with other students. The school isn't physically part of another university so we don't have the opportunity to interact with non-USAC students automatically. There are opportunities to connect with the community and other students if you seek them out yourself, but it's not built into the program. Otherwise, I have zero complaints! I love the housing (it's in great parts of the city and super accessible and good), everyone is very helpful and welcoming, and it's a great experience.

My time studying abroad in Valencia, with USAC, was phenomenal. I went without knowing anyone, but USAC did a great job of hosting events where all the students could get together and build relationships. This made exploring a new country a lot less intimidating, and very fun. We got to go on field trips, and experience awesome holidays. I would love to go back some day, for sure!

Studying abroad was an experience I had always dreamed of, and I'm so thankful for the winter study abroad program that USAC offers. Time flew by in college, but this was worth the wait. I took Economic and Political Institutions of the European Union at the Universitat d'Alacant in Alicante, Spain. In the mornings, we debated European politics in class. In the evenings and on the weekends, I strolled the beach with views of the Mediterranean, climbed the Castell de Santa Bàrbara, and explored cafes and restaurants with friends — both old and new. I was excited to arrive in Alicante and sad to leave, and I would do it all over again if I could!

My experience with USAC study abroad in Bilbao was one of the greatest decisions I made in my undergraduate education. The program staff from start to finish were accommodating, empathetic, encouraging, and an overall fantastic resource. They supported me in getting connected and building relationships within the Bilbao/Getxo communities, allowing me to supplement my courses with Social Media Admin opportunities, Classroom experience as an English Language Conversation Assistant in a local elementary school, tutoring opportunities with local families, and several group excursions that piqued my curiosity and sense of adventure! They offered great recommendations for regional travel to explore all that País Vasco had to offer, provided a safe space for any concerns I had, and took interest in my experiences and day to day life! When it came to housing, my host family was an incredible placement. I lived in an apartment with the most amazing family who supported me far beyond providing room and board. My host mom and her daughters were friendly, and I spent many days with them laughing at the kitchen table, exploring the community, and creating a relationship that has lasted beyond my program’s end. I fell in love with Bilbao and Getxo as a host city, felt enriched by my curriculum and professors, and returned home more confident in my language fluency than ever before. The ease of travel from Bilbao to the rest of Spain and more broadly throughout Europe was a complete breeze! I often spent time traveling and exploring on weekends, expanding my cultural competency and my passion for learning about the world around me. I feel that the USAC program offered me a chance to test my boundaries and grow as both a student and a person, I would encourage anyone considering study abroad with USAC to take the leap of faith and know that you’ll love where you land!

I was part of the Session I Lüneburg Program. It was a last minute decision because my other study abroad opportunity at my home university was unfortunately cancelled due to lack of interest. As disappointed as I was, I'm honestly glad that I ended up doing the Lüneburg program. It allowed me the opportunity to break out of my shell. I also had the chance to meet new people not just from Germany, but from all over the United States and other countries as well. The USAC Team are incredibly kind and helpful. I'm naturally a very shy and quiet person, yet I had no trouble asking them for help whenever I needed it. They email you all the information that you need and are willing to answer any questions you might have. I definitely recommend going on the day trips. You will have better chances to connect with fellow students and explore more of the country while also learning some history. If you can, try to go to campus activities and connect with the International Society on campus.

Really excellent time, was very immersed. Went on a lot of great trips. Could not recommend enough big thanks to Dáša and Jan. I love Prague one day I shall return. Banger kamo… much love much gratitude.

I learned how to surf, which has always been a bucket list item for me. Our surf instructors were amazing and were amazing to learn from. I also got to practice my Spanish with them. They are trilingual, as are many people in the area; they know Spanish, Basque, and English. The weather was absolutely beautiful for the month of July. I got to take weekend trips to beautiful nearby areas and got to go see the running of the bulls. My Spanish class was very well taught, and my professor was amazing.

I was on London for the two three-week sessions. The classes were excellent and I really enjoyed my class about Shakespeare. We traveled to the Globe theatre to see multiple productions, then had wonderful conversations. Through USAC, there were opportunities to travel outside of London and spend time in lesser known attractions, which let me explore more than just the city. Overall, it balanced both independence to see the city and do whatever you wanted while also letting you have more structure and planned trips.

Studying abroad in Reggio Emilia, Italy was one of the greatest decisions I've ever made. Through this program, I met so many amazing people and explored many beautiful places that allowed me to fully immerse myself in the rich Italian culture in this area. Our program directors were so incredibly helpful, making us feel welcomed and supported throughout the entire experience. Study abroad will always be one of my favorite memories in college and an amazing experience I will always treasure and look back on.

Studying abroad in Verona, Italy was honestly one of the best experiences I’ve ever had. Verona itself is such a beautiful and charming city, and it felt a lot less overwhelming than bigger places like Rome or Milan. It was the perfect balance of having things to do while still feeling safe and easy to navigate. Walking through the streets every day, seeing historic buildings, and being surrounded by so much culture made even normal routines feel exciting. One of the best parts of being based in Verona was how easy it was to travel. I was able to visit so many different cities and even other countries, which made the experience feel even bigger than just one place. At the same time, coming back to Verona always felt comfortable and familiar. I also really appreciated the slower pace of life compared to the U.S. People take more time to enjoy meals, spend time with friends, and actually be present, which is something I learned to value a lot more. Overall, studying abroad in Verona helped me grow in ways I didn’t expect. It pushed me out of my comfort zone, made me more independent, and gave me a new perspective on different cultures and ways of living. I would 100% recommend it to anyone considering studying abroad.

My semester abroad in Alicante, Spain, was an immersion into Spanish culture and the sun-drenched life of the Mediterranean coast. My days were a blend of academic pursuits and afternoon explorations, where I quickly learned to navigate the city by the rhythm of its palm-lined esplanadas and the scent of saltwater in the air. Mornings began with churros and thick hot chocolate, followed by classes that deepened my understanding of Spanish history. The afternoons were for wandering through the narrow, winding streets of the old town, discovering hidden plazas, or relaxing on the expansive sandy beaches that define the city's coastline. I honed my Spanish skills through lively conversations with local shopkeepers.

As someone who had never been to Asia to start with. Studying and living in Seoul for a semester was a life changing experience. Meeting other international students from all over the world while also making new friends with the locals. The city of Seoul offers a wide variety of cultural activities, food, nightlife, and many more things to do for entertainment. I came back from my study abroad and still recommend it to my friends and fellow classmates. USAC also offered amazing guidance along the whole process of applying to arrival and even ongoing support while there. Great program and highly recommend to others.

Studying abroad was an incredible experience—immersive, eye-opening, and unforgettable. I grew academically and personally while exploring new cultures, making lifelong friends, and gaining confidence. Highly recommend!

USAC Torino was a once in a lifetime experience. Daniele and Eliana were amazing throughout the whole process. They were always available to help and provided so much guidance throughout the program. My professors were wonderful as well. They were very understanding that we were all very busy outside of school and were very efficient with our class time so that we had little homework outside of class time. Torino is a beautiful city that is big enough to have countless places to explore but at the same time is not very touristy so you get a very authentic Italian experience and get to see the true culture of Italians. Overall I grew so much throughout my time in Torino and am so grateful for everyone I met along the way.

This program was the perfect blend of having independence to explore the country and structured group activities. I really enjoyed the course and I liked that although it was a lot of content to cover, the class was not all consuming; there was plenty of time each day to explore the city. The community of USAC students was really supportive and we all stuck together to make meaningful connections.

I had to learn how to grow independently and let me tell you I would not be the same person today if I did not go to Italy for a semester. Specifically Verona, because I believe the less touristy it was gave myself a better chance to immerse myself in the culture. I made some of my best friends to this day, I learned how to be independent, I learned how to face my anxiety on my own, and ultimately get to experience a different way of life that I would now say is where and how I want to live in the future. I would do this exact program with the same exact people over and over again. I think about it every single day and ultimately nothing could ever compare to my time in Verona.

I had a great time studying abroad in London for a semester. I was able to experience student life and make friends with people in my classes. I got to immerse myself culturally while still making time for my studies. I got to visit a lot of museums through the program as well.

I went abroad Spring 2024 and genuinely have not stopped talking about my experience since. Studying abroad in Spain was life-changing and I grew in ways I didn’t know I needed to. I was born and raised in Nevada, and had only been out of the country to Mexico once before my experience. Moving to Spain, being immersed in the Basque culture, changed my life. I was able to use and practice my Spanish daily, learn about an entire new culture, become self-sustaining and independent, and truly gain an immense appreciation for the world. I recommend this experience to every one I meet. In San Sebastián, I got to live 30 steps from the ocean, surf in between classes, participate in cultural activities like Día de San Sebastián, and eat some of the best food of my life. The area is so extremely walkable, I got to live in Gros, which is actually the neighborhood furthest from the school. I walked to school every day, along the ocean, past the beautiful buildings and architecture, and past the student’s favorite school snack, tortilla from Bar Nestor! I could not recommend studying abroad more, especially if you want to completely grow as a person and truly appreciate time independently. My USAC group still plans trips together until this day, and those relationships will last a lifetime! Thank you USAC!

I decided to study abroad one day when I felt stuck in my college town. I was looking for something new and decided to look into it. That’s when I realized Italy would be a great fresh new start making new friends experiencing new culture trying new food and so on. I got the chance to redo the way I think and experience life and for that I’m forever grateful.

ever since coming back from Italy, all I can do is think about it all day every day and how I need to get back. extremely delicious food everywhere you went, the cheapest and most amazing wine no matter what restaurant you walked into, and truly some of the nicest locals I have ever met, regardless of where I’ve traveled. I think Verona is possibly a better city than some of the other big name, Italian cities as it allows you to have a little bit more of a personal connection with the community around you. The art history class I took was one of the most impactful courses I took during my entire time at university

This program was amazing, I stayed for a full year, so I experienced two different cohorts of students and each group was fun and had unique experiences. The program helps place you with a family that they work and they make sure the families are open and receptive to students, my host mom was amazing and I still talk to her a year later:) the classes give you hands on opportunities such as going to marches for activism class and interviewing local activists for a research study. It also can be hard to get close with locals your age and other students from Uruguay because the classes are all USAC students. There are different avenues that you can use to make friends you just have to make more of an effort to push yourself out there.

Going to Scotland was a great decision for me. Not only was I able to really experience the culture and the beautiful landscapes. The study abroad course has so many opportunities to visit the different major cities and each class had their own field trips to different small towns. It was incredible easy to get around as well. The public transportation was wonderful. I got to experience lots of different things, meet a bunch of new people, and learn so much.

My semester in Chiang Mai Thailand was one of the best chapters of my life. I met so many incredible friends in the program, many of whom I still keep in touch with now. The city was perfect for living in, exploring, and travelling around. The staff from the Thai buddies to Jum, the program coordinator made it their job to make us feel at home and comfortable while also encouraging us to branch out and try new things. Between the food, friendly people, and amazing memories, this is a program I'd recommend to everyone wanting to go abroad!

I am SO happy that I got the chance to study abroad at Korea University! I was able to be immersed in a new culture and I got to experience a ton of fun things. I also made some good friends there which made my experience even better. I definitely became more independent through this program. Hopefully, I can go back to Seoul soon because I miss it a lot!

Studying at UCC was an amazing experience from start to finish. Coming from a small liberal arts school in the states, I won't deny being nervous about becoming a faceless number amongst a sea of students. Instead, I found myself treated as an equal and a valued member of the campus from professors and peers alike. My courses were rigorous and engaging, and whenever I had a question or concern my professors were right there to assuage any lingering doubts. On-campus society meetings became a highlight of my week and I always looked forward to checking the society and club Instagram page for new meet ups to attend. If I had to recommend any programme, a semester abroad at University College Cork would be top on my list for any perspective student.

My experience was good but mainly because I went out of my way to make it good. I was in a dorm, but we did not have wifi for at least two weeks of arriving. Throughout the semester, power and water was shut off without us knowing and it was shut off for hours in the morning or at night leaving us like that before going to class. Staff for arrival was helpful at times, but many other times they'd force some students who didn't speak French to go and figure out things like insurance or buying phone plans by themselves. I was lucky to have guidance and a good head on my shoulders but if you're not very independent and extroverted, this program isn't very supportive of that. I will say Pau was fun and the people are amazing, the university was pretty nice in itself, and the insurance that comes with the program was really nice, I took lots of advantage of the mental health care.

If I could go back and do this program over and over again I totally would. My advisors were so helpful and welcoming and we really bonded. They took us out to dinners and on group trips and answered any questions I had. I never felt like I was alone there and when you arrive, you’re introduced to all the students in the program with you, creating a friend group right off the bat. The dorms are single rooms with bathrooms in them which is amazing. The only downside is the shared kitchen as some students have different cleanliness standards. The dorm is extremely secure with a security guard outside of it and someone constantly at the front desk buzzing people in. The dorm is directly next to a metro stop, a mall, and the Benfica stadium and is only two metro stops away from the University. I loved this program and would recommend it to anyone.

Participating in this program is one of the best decisions I made during my college career. I was able to participate in many cultural immersion activities with the program staff. Furthermore, the faculty of this program are very intelligent and will do their best to make sure that you understand the concepts being taught to you. I believe all the staff at this program went above and beyond for me to make this program a good experience. I especially recommend this program to be very disability friendly. Though there were some hurdles along the way, program staff reached out to various networks within the German disability community to gain as much information as possible to set up an accessible experience for me. The city itself is also very beautiful. There is a beautiful river view near the city center as well as various other nature trails that are good for long walks, especially in the spring time. Being that there is a university in the area, there are many young adults in the neighborhood, and they are often Willing to help new students out. Furthermore, the university takes many other international exchange students through other programming, so there is a network of international students that you were able to connect with outside the program. I recommend keeping an eye out for any messages and bulletins discussing international student events. All in all, this program was a wonderful experience, and I would recommend it for college students looking to study abroad.

Francesca and Luisa were amazing advisors and made this abroad experience so fulfilling and rewarding. They were always there if I needed anything and made sure we were all always taken care of. I felt like I got to experience everything I could and got to get an education as well which was so rewarding and important to me. I felt free yet felt like I had someone to go to if I ever needed anything.

I studied with USAC in July of 2025. I learned Spanish on URJC’s campus. The location was 20 minutes from downtown Madrid via metro or car. It was quiet, and there is a small grocery store near the dorms. I stayed on the university campus so I luckily had A/C! The USAC staff was very helpful and kind. They even offered to help me with my language skills when I wasn’t in class and needed extra tutoring. The field trips were fun, especially to Segovia. My cohort was very friendly, and I enjoyed going on trips with them around Spain. We had weekends off which was super nice. The cafeteria food was okay, and you could only get one meal from there a day. Overall, I definitely enjoyed this study abroad program!

Studying abroad with USAC made my experience in London a breeze. USAC offered a program that was ideal for me as it was during the summer for 3 weeks rather than a semester. Three weeks was the perfect length to explore London while offering enough time to study and focus on my class. USAC prepared me well for my time abroad and offered me the support I needed. USAC allowed me to connect with other students before depature making it easier to know everyone in the program before departing. Overall, the experience with USAC was fantastic and straightforward.

Living abroad in Spain was very enjoyable for me! I was blessed to have seen so much of Europe in such a short amount of time. I lived with a host family too and it was an enriching experience to really be immersed in Spanish culture. I loved how intimate and small our classes were, I really got to connect with the other students and we had the sweetest time together. I also took a sailing class which was a wild ride! Swimming in the ocean too is quite unforgettable and the friendships and memories I made are ones I hold dear to my heart.

I was abroad for the yearlong program, and the cultural immersion that Viterbo provides is a strength of the program, food and cost of living were phenomenal also. Though the program directors (there were only two) struggled with organization and communication, though I do think they are trying their best genuinely.

I feel this experience changed me for the better. I have so much more confidence and feel more independent. It was the first time I felt like a fully functioning independent adult and proved that I could do things like travel abroad on my own. I also got to experience a new culture and improve my Spanish skills. I gained a new perspective on the world, that my experiences in my home country were only a fraction of the experiences the world has to offer

The USAC staff in Prague were amazing and so helpful. Also, Prague itself was an experience of a lifetime and I want to go back as soon as I can. You are fully immersed in the city life and there are endless activities and exciting things to see.

I have been abroad multiple times, but this time was obviously different. Living in a small town is what I loved because every single morning, you would see most of the same people, walk the same path, and see different things. What was special was that in Reggio Emilia, not a lot of locals spoke english, so you had to try to speak Italian. Once you saw them every day, they would know your order, and try to speak english to you and they loved seeing you. It was a great experience.

During June 2025 I studied Managing Project and Events in London at University of Roehampton. I had an absolutely incredible time immersing myself in the London lifestyle, meeting other students from London, exploring famous monuments, and even going outside of London to some other English towns with other USAC students. I am interested in Project Management after undergraduate studies and this course that I took in London helped me immensely in understanding the resources and tools used in Project Management. I also went to some well-known sports facilities and the Shard for some class trips. The faculty and staff at the University of Roehampton made it very easy to navigate around campus and made us feel as if London was a second home. On the weekends I went with some of the other USAC students to other English towns including Brighton, Bath & Stone Henge, and Margate. We all had a wonderful time exploring those towns together as these were new sights for many of us. I am so grateful and happy that I had the opportunity to study abroad in London as it showed me that there are so many opportunities out in the world for people to take a part in and grow.

Studying abroad with USAC in Lyon was hands down the best experience. The program was laid-back but organized, the USAC team is great, and Lyon is such a fun, easy city to live in. I’d do it again in a heartbeat.

I studied abroad in Prague for the second summer session during 2025, and it was an unforgettable experience. Prague is an absolutely gorgeous city and USAC gave me the chance to live in it for a period of time. The class I took (Architecture) took us to so many museums, churches, castles, and art galleries, most of which I probably wouldn’t have known about if not for the class. The professor, Milan, was so kind and knowledgeable, and so was every staff there (like Dasa and Jan.) If you decide to study in gorgeous Prague, you MUST do the Budapest/Vienna tour. It was a truly amazing trip and I couldn’t recommend it enough.

My experience was life changing! I met some of the most amazing people I could have hoped to. My host parents were fantastic and made me feel comfortable in a very uncomfortable situation. The program was more than supportive of my queer identity and made me feel safe. I achieved functional fluency in my month-long program and made memories that will last a lifetime.

I was the only Japanese student participating in USAC's San Sebastian program. Living in Spain with English-speaking friends and facing a language barrier was a difficult experience at the time, but I also learned a lot, and I can say that those were the days I worked hardest and felt the most confident of my life. Everything was new during my time in Spain, and I studied hard every day and communicated with many different people. My time in Spain influenced my career path and way of thinking, and I began to dream of becoming someone who can be active internationally. Even after returning home from Spain, I continue to keep in touch with my friends and teachers. I used to be shy, but now I can speak three or more languages ​​and I feel like I've discovered a new side of myself. I'm grateful to have been able to spend such wonderful days in the beautiful city of San Sebastian. I'm glad I chose USAC's program!

Donostia is the most charming city, it has the best people, the oldest language in Europe, it’s the cleanest, the public transportation is like no other, I was able to play on a local soccer team and make local friends, my apartment was on the top floor and had a balcony overlooking the ocean. Everyone that chose to study in Donostia also had very similar aspirations, and they were in the same sort of place in their life as me, so it was very easy to make friends with everyone. It was also so immersive and forced me to speak in Spanish everywhere I went, which was exactly what I wanted!

Studying in South Korea was truly life changing! It was my first time being away from home, so I was nervous to go to a place where I knew no one. But the friends I made and experiences I had were so life altering.

The whole trip feels like a dream! I loved that I was able to become so immersed in the Italian culture and miss being there every single day. I had the opportunity to take some really interesting classes and meet some amazing people, both with the program and in the community as well. The semester went by too fast, and I cannot wait to go back to visit. The city of Viterbo was beautiful and quaint, and right nearby was the amazing city of Rome. I learned a lot of things that I would have never been able to study so hands-on back in the US. I am grateful for my experience abroad!

USAC in Thailand gave me numerous opportunities to go out of my comfort zone, travel, learn, and make memories. I made life-long friends in the program, many of whom I continue to stay in contact with. Now that I am back in the United States, I miss the friendliness of the Thai people and the DELICIOUS cheap food. I, along with many other program participants are already trying to plan a trip back to South East Asia.

This was my first time studying abroad and there are no words to describe how amazing this opportunity was. I got to meet so many amazing people and see so many new places. Alicante was the best place I could have ever chosen to live. You get the experience of being among towns people and being around other students. If you have the opportunity, take it, you won’t regret it!

I am so grateful that I was able to go on this study abroad because not only did it enable me to grow personally into a more confident and disciplined student but it also provided me an opportunity to conduct research and volunteer abroad. Thanks to the amazing on-site staff that set me up with the group choir, a volunteer English teaching program and research opportunities I was able to put all of those on my resume and now as a graduating senior I am a Fulbright semifinalist. Also with the research I began with Chile I was able to receive a research grant from my Univeristy to go back to Chile. I attribute all of these opportunities to the USAC program and structure. Studying abroad especially through USAC can set you up for your profession career while having an amazing time meeting new people while you're at it!

Studying abroad in Japan through USAC was honestly one of the best decisions I’ve made in college. Before going, I was excited but also nervous about the language barrier and whether I’d feel out of place, but USAC made the transition way smoother than I expected. From orientation to day-to-day support, it felt like there was always someone I could reach out to if I needed help.

I made friends from different countries, tried to learn a new language, experienced life in a different country, & experienced a different academic environment. Though all I can do is order food in Korean, it was a good language immersion. Also I felt a bit lonely being the only Christian from my country, I did get to attend a few church services.

I would like to start with USAC was amazing in supporting me to get to Kalmar as I was the first person in my university to do it, and this caused some hiccups. Kalmar is a beautifully quiet city, with many college-age people. Walking is easy, and apartments are bafflingly cheap. The school is wonderful and right on the water, and it even has a view of a nearby castle! They have an excellent program for exchange students, and this is how I met so many friends from all over the world; not many Americans do this program and I enjoyed that. With the friends I made, we traveled Europe on a budget quite easily. I also enjoyed a solo trip to Longyearbyen, Svalbard, to see the aurora and experience polar night. I still talk to those friends I met and traveled with all these years later (I went in 2023). This was the most amazing experience of my life that I cannot fit into a comment well, but I hope this can at least help convince you to take the step.

In the spring of 2025 I was given the opportunity to study abroad in Lyon, France. Lyon wasn’t just a place I studied—it was a place that rewired me. Coming from Zambia to the USA and then the USA to France, I thought I was prepared for culture shock. I wasn’t. The language humbled me, the pace of life slowed me down, and the people forced me to actually "observe" instead of rush. Lyon taught me how to sit with myself. Long walks by the Rhône, quiet cafés where nobody cared who I was or where I came from or judge, everyone is super friendly and helpful. They also appreciate when I try to speak French and will often help me if my grammar is wrong or I forget a phrase. The freedom was uncomfortable at first, then addictive. I learned more outside the classroom than inside it. I learned confidence by being misunderstood and still speaking. I learned independence by figuring things out alone, including traveling to different countries alone. I learned how different the world feels when you’re the outsider—and how powerful it is when you stop trying to fit in and just exist. France challenged my views on relationships, ambition, and identity. It made me question what success actually looks like when nobody around you shares your background. Every time I am asked if I would recommend this program to someone else, a million times, YES!

I had an immersive experience in a foreign country. I found the staff members to be helpful and friendly. I think Prague is a place everyone should visit for a unique cultural shock. I miss it so much and will definitely visit again.

**This is a great opportunity for UNR/UNLV students and I would not recommend for students that don't attend these schools.** For clarification, I was on a one month (July) Summer program. Something I didn't realize when applying for USAC is that it is based out of University of Nevada. I was one of maybe 5-8 people from other schools out of a 30 person group, which wasn't very fun when the others were a giant group of people that could see each other after the program, etc. I did make some amazing friends, though, and everyone was generally very kind. My Spanish class was very easy and I did not feel challenged at all, I showed up to class and did my work and forgot it when I left. However, my teach we amazing and I wish I could have her as my teacher again. The two "excursions" were bus rides with some museums that I could have paid less than 100 Euro to do by myself. I had to pay extra to live in the dorms which only included one meal a day. My friends who lived in apartments had 20-60 minute Metro rides to campus (UJRC). Finally, since I was not on the group flight, they didn't allow me to join their provided transportation even though I landed at the same time as the group flight. I also had to provide my own transportation to the airport when I left.

I chose Seoul as I wanted to experience somewhere new and unfamiliar. I wanted to challenge myself by visiting somewhere that would be out of my comfort zone, as I felt, and still feel, that it is the only way you can truly grow as a person. I have a deep love for history and culture, so being able to live in a country and truly immerse myself in this new, mysterious way of life helped me understand why I chose this city. I made sure I chose courses that aligned with both my degree and my personal interests. USAC and Yonsei University gave me the opportunity to learn about Philosophy in East Asian Culture, where we delve into centuries-old traditions throughout multiple countries, learning how they shaped the way we live in the modern day. This inspired me to get first-hand experience with these topics. I went and visited different traditional and spiritual sites all around the country, and even in other countries like Hong Kong, Japan, and Taiwan. I marched the treacherous hike through the mountains of Hong Kong to visit the Buddha statue and learn about its history. I travelled all through the rural towns around Mount Fuji to understand their way of living and traditions. I had a life-changing experience that I would never trade for anything. The only thing that I wish were different was the availability of courses. I understand that there aren't many people who can teach a class in English, so I am not torn over this, but I was super excited to take a Korean Fashion and Sustainability course that I had to unfortunately drop out of after realizing I made the mistake of signing up for a Korean spoken course offered to exchange students. Overall, I had amazing experiences, met some truly outstanding people that I am fortunate enough to call my friends, and ate a lot (and I mean a lot) of delicious food! I would totally recommend studying at Yonsei to anyone whos on the fence about going.

I loved spending my senior year in Viterbo. I graduated with a degree in biology, but I also loved the various classes I took, including history, anthropology, Italian, and politics. I enjoyed listening to all the professor's lectures and writing papers on topics I would not have otherwise researched. I personally loved the city because it was more homey and quiet. It is busy during the festival around the Macchina di Santa Rosa, but otherwise expect to learn Italian to talk to shopkeepers (it is hard but worth it). Rome is in such close proximity that you can take advantage of the trains to travel. I often spent weekends traveling around Italy and loved it. The airport is very efficient, and it was pleasant flying out of there when I visited some other countries. I met wonderful people. Everyone was smart, kind, and fun. It was an opportunity to meet people from universities across the United States. I look back on the memories I created with everyone in my cohort at least once a week and miss them thoroughly. I made some life-long friends and visit them around the United States with my newfound love of traveling. I would recommend that anyone planning to study abroad plan their trips well in advance. It may feel rushed and hard, but doing so will ensure you spend your time the way you want to. I loved all the adventures I went on! Learning a new language and practicing it can be challenging, especially when you have the option to choose a program where the native population speaks English or simply rely on Google Translate. It feels much more authentic, is extremely rewarding to speak in another language, and it reminds you that you can do hard things.

Studying abroad in Donosti (San Sebastian) was one of the greatest experiences of my life. The USAC faculty in Donosti are the best people who truly care about educating and sharing Donosti // the Basque country with others. I learned so much during my short time abroad, not only in terms of the course materials, but also in terms of self-exploration and the exploration of a new place. The program had a great work-life balance, the city is beautiful and safe, and there is always something new and exciting occurring. The Basque Country is full of incredible, welcoming people, and I am honored I had the chance to study here.

This program was really incredible for improving my language skills! Many people spoke English, so it was easy to struggle in my second language along with the people I was speaking with. There was very little pressure and often times people would help me or give me to space to express myself. The classes were also very helpful with us starting class by sharing what slang we learned! I chose Lyon for the academics and even though that was my priority I fell in love with the city. Lyon is a large city but has a smaller city feel. There was so much to explore but it didn't feel too overwhelming. As Lyon was very influential city for the French resistance during WWII, there is a lot of history embedded into the city. There were so many opportunities to meet people in and outside of the university and program. I was able to engage with French language and culture as well as engage with the immigrant communities! The onsite staff were also incredible and helped me through many situations!

Studying abroad in Stirling, Scotland was hands down the best decision I have ever made. This experience changed my life, completely for the better. I got to travel across the country and do things I had never even dreamed were possible. I met amazing people and drank the best coffee I have ever had. I danced and explored and hiked and cooked and got to discover who I am and what I love to do. I learned that there is beauty in everything and everywhere, you just simply have to look for it. As a history buff, this was a phenomenal location choice. The amount of architecture and history in Scotland is incredible, and the views are breathtaking. I don't have enough words to describe how much I loved this experience. If you are even remotely considering study abroad, DO IT.

It was a fun experience and both teachers and classmates were fantastic. I got the chance to meet inspiring people and hava a good time. I really got the chance and time to make the most out of the experience and I saw the best of Lissbon.

I had the best time in Madrid! The city had so much to offer, I made friends that I’ve traveled to see again since the program and I loved my classes! The staff for my program was lovely and were always there to support us!

Alicante was the absolute perfect place to go. Not touristy (like Valencia, Barcelona, or Madrid), but still an awesome place to visit/stay with everything you could every want (great restaurants, beaches, shops, activities, etc.). USAC was so helpful the entire time and made the process run so smoothly. Great communication and resources. I even had an incident involving a trip to the emergency room, and our coordinator helped me so much (even though it was a weekend after 5 pm) and the insurance they provided was a smooth process. The length of the trip was perfect (I did summer session 1), and I made so many friends on this trip! This is your sign to go USAC- Alicante!

I knew studying abroad in college with something that I wanted to do. I had never been to Prague before coming here and now I find myself recommending it all the time. It was an absolutely incredible experience and I really appreciate it that everybody at USAC helped with immersion, navigation, and adjusting. I felt really supported and the program helped a lot with getting to know the area. I enjoyed my classes, the people, and the world around me. Studying abroad was absolutely incredible .

This program challenged me academically, socially, and personally. I grew so much as a person learning that I can adapt in an unfamiliar/foreign environment. I viewed this as a great way for personal growth. The classes were difficult but doable. Yes, you have to put in the work, but the instructors really enjoy watching students learn and grow. The location of the Bilbao program was perfect. Anything you might need is walkable. The support staff is great and ready to help all students, no matter what or no matter the time of day. Everyone in my group really enjoyed themselves! The only issue I have is that there were way too many emails beforehand, that some potentially important information could have easily gotten lost.

While there is no place like home, there's a piece I left with me in Lyon, France, because of the wonderful experience I had. I was really unsure on what 5 weeks could bring, but it brought friendships, adventures, and a great love for the city. The courses I took immersed me in the city greatly, being able to learn more of the language, architecture, and being able to explore all beautiful parts of it.

I chose to go to Gwangju for two reasons: tuition was cheaper for an entire year compared to a single semester in Seoul, and I wanted greater language immersion and an authentic cultural experience. It was worth it in every way for me! Staying in Korea for a year helped me reach my goal of becoming conversational in Korean, and living in a less-touristy city gave me more opportunities to practice the language, meet locals, and experience authentic Korean culture. While there were some challenges because of living in a less-touristy city, every one of them was worth it.

I studied abroad this past summer (2025) in Heredia, Costa Rica. I did the 5-week summer program and I mostly went with the intention of improving my Spanish skills and also experiencing a new culture, going on adventures, and meeting new people. This program was exactly what I was hoping for with my study abroad! I had the best time meeting new people and making memories I will never forget. The academics were amazing as well as all of the staff supporting us. I felt very comforted, as everyone was so friendly! I loved the opportunities to explore the country as well. They had a variety of trips for us to explore various places including zip lining in the cloud forest and visiting waterfalls. Overall, I would HIGHLY recommend!

I had an amazing time with USAC! From start to finish, staff was very helpful. Classes were the perfect pace and structure. Teachers are aware that you may travel on weekends, so the structure of classes may be less homework based.

Going abroad to Alicante was one of the best decisions of my life. I had a great time and I learned so much about Spanish culture and myself. I highly recommend Alicante to anyone who wants to go abroad!

Going abroad through this program was one of the best decisions I ever made. Where this program stood out was the excursion we went on! I had friends in other programs that didn’t have any trips planned by their program. I got to see a lot of local Irish landmarks because I was with this specific program. I couldn’t have asked for a better program.

Studying abroad in Lyon, France during July 2025 was one of the most rewarding experiences of my academic journey. From the moment I arrived, I felt immersed in a city that perfectly balances history, culture, and modern life. Lyon is incredibly walkable, beautiful, and full of character, which made it easy to feel at home while still constantly discovering something new. One of the biggest strengths of the program was the small class sizes. This allowed for more personalized attention from professors and created a supportive learning environment where I felt comfortable participating and asking questions. Academically, the program challenged me while still being engaging and enjoyable. Cultural immersion was a major highlight. Living in Lyon meant experiencing French culture firsthand—whether that was shopping at local markets, enjoying long café conversations, or navigating daily life entirely in French. Being surrounded by the language helped me improve my French at a much higher level than I ever could in a traditional classroom setting back home. By the end of the program, I felt more confident speaking, listening, and understanding the language in real-world situations. Travel was another unforgettable part of the experience. Lyon’s central location made it easy to explore other parts of France and nearby countries, adding even more depth to the summer. Overall, this study abroad experience helped me grow academically, culturally, and personally, and I would highly recommend Lyon to any student looking for an enriching and immersive program.

My study abroad in Madrid was wonderful. I stayed with a great host family and I found the usac staff to be very helpful. If I had the chance to do it again, I would in a heartbeat. The friends I made in Madrid are something I think about all the time. I miss being there and immersed in the culture.

I spent my study abroad semester in Stirling, Scotland, studying journalism and film production. A long-time dream of mine, studying abroad, has been unlike anything I've ever experienced. It has allowed for me to push my boundaries in so many ways -- from my social and academic life, to my independence as a person and traveler. I would recommend this experience to anyone. Not only do you get to experience full immersion in a new community and culture, but you grow from it in more way than you could ever expect.

Highly recommend USAC! Not only am I studying currently with them in Costa Rica, but I also did a semester with them in Uruguay. Both experiences were great!! They have a lot of support systems in place and have different ways of group activities within the program and also outside so you are able to immerse into the community as much as you want.

I had an amazing time studying at Yonsei University in Seoul, South Korea. USAC was very helpful with pre departure preparation and helping me figure out visa, immigration and all travel requirements. Even after I returned, I never had to worry about transcripts- they had all that sorted quickly and all my credits transferred to my home university. South Korea was amazing, I made amazing friendships, ate tons of food, got to visit many other cities (+ Japan!) and wore a hanbok too- 10/10!!

I had an amazing time studying at Yonsei University in Seoul, South Korea. USAC was very helpful with pre departure preparation and helping me figure out visa, immigration and all travel requirements. Even after I returned, I never had to worry about transcripts- they had all that sorted quickly and all my credits transferred to my home university. South Korea was amazing, I made amazing friendships, ate tons of food, got to visit many other cities (+ Japan!) and wore a hanbok too- 10/10!!

My goals when studying abroad were to learn as much about Japanese culture and society as I could, and the course offerings went above and beyond this. There were too many great courses to choose from! Additionally, my homestay experience allowed me to really get a feel for what it was like to live in Japan. Through my host family, I was able to gain experiences that my peers could not. If I could go back, the only thing I would change would be to stay longer!

Overall, I loved my time in Costa Rica. However, if I had the chance to do it over again, I would have probably picked a direct exchange program where I was more fully immersed in the culture/language, but there were many qualities of the USAC Heredia program that make it valuable especially for those who haven't traveled much or don't speak Spanish. Pros: The home stay!!! I loved my familia tica. The food was great, the house was always perfectly clean, and I got to go on trips with my host family. It was sad to leave and I'm still in touch with them! Opportunities to meet other local university students at UNA. Gustavo, the Spanish track IV professor, was INCREDIBLE. The bus system in Costa Rica is awesome and I got to travel almost every weekend Cons: Surrounded by other English speakers. -Classes are not very rigorous or challenging. -Not great for students who already speak Spanish conversationally. - Sometimes the program directors are a little disorganized. I'd love to see USAC allow students to enroll in classes directly at la UNA.

I chose Verona because it was a place I had never heard of before. As a Spanish speaker, my experience there was truly unique, I was able to communicate in Italian thanks to the shared Latin roots of our languages. I loved the friendships I made and the opportunity to fully immerse myself in an entirely different culture and country!

I absolutely loved my experience in Cork Ireland. The city generally felt very safe, and I feel that Ireland is a great jumping off point to go visit the rest of Europe. Flights and tickets in and out of Dublin to other countries are reasonable, making it easy to take weekend trips!

This was a great experience. The USAC program offered a study abroad experience that was feasible financially and I do not feel like I missed out on anything! The program has some really fun organized group trips, and events. They offered all the classes I needed to continue pursuing my degree.

My time in Lyon, France was the best 5 months of my life. The USAC program was designed in such a great way, to help promote cultural immersion and provide ample support for students. The staff was incredibly warm and welcoming, and I developed great relationships with the program directors by the time I left. The city was a perfect size, not too big to the point it was crowded, but not too small, because there was always something new to see or do. The food and restaurants were outstanding, and prices were very reasonable (easy to find a meal for anywhere from $10-$15). I got to volunteer with French elementary students, participate in a language exchange program with other French university students, and go on many organized trips around France to learn more about the country. I would move back in a heartbeat!

I absolutely loved my time studying abroad with USAC in Chiang Mai, Thailand! The city is wonderful (as somebody who is not a city person), very walk-able, and near to a lot of other great places to visit. The CMU USAC staff are phenomenal and planned a ton of great events to help us get to know the area and were great resources for everything. The Thai buddies program that USAC sets up is a really great way to meet Thai students and get to know the area better. The courses were not very difficult (compared to my usual STEM courses) but they were very engaging. Chiang Mai is very affordable and I always felt safe. The food is phenomenal, I miss it every day! I got my degree in geology and didn't take any major related courses while abroad, but I still had a lot of opportunities to engage with my field outside of classes. I truly cannot recommend this program enough! (I also have pics and a website if you want those! I couldn't get the form on the website to go through but I uploaded an image there)

I had the wonderful opportunity to study an academic year abroad at Yonsei University! I know there's a general impression of study abroad where people see it as overhyped and way too expensive. I had this same idea of study abroad before I started my program, but it really proved me wrong. I had incredible experiences, met life-long friends, and made memories that'll I'll cherish forever! As an out of state student whose tuition is covered by FAFSA grants and loans I was really scared that to go abroad I might have to take out additional loans, but USAC's program tuition was really reasonable and the process was very straightforward, so I was really stressing more than I needed to! Study abroad was by far the best decision I've made in my college career, but I know that it took me awhile to get over my own skepticism. So, all I'll say is you really will never know until you try it for yourself!

Studying abroad with USAC in Torino was truly a life changing experience. I was scared to leave my friends and family, moving to Europe not knowing anyone in my program. However, as soon as I landed in Torino I had already met such amazing people. Little did I know that I would make lifelong friends! We were a program of about 40 students and became as close as one group could possibly be. Torino is such an amazing city, from its architecture and art to food and culture! Our program directors, Eliana and Danielle, were extremely kind and welcoming and became great role models for us all. The program trips were so much fun and I encourage you to take advantage of all of them. We were fortunate to be able to visit Lake Como and a wine tour in the Piedmont region. If you are thinking about studying abroad with USAC, do it! It was truly the best 5 months of my life.

I am so happy that I chose to study abroad through USAC Verona! The program was so well planned including group trips, great classes with great professors, and many opportunities to become immersed in Italian culture. Included in our program, we were able to travel to Venice, Padova, and Lake Garda. USAC also provided us with the opportunity to meet students from Verona and become friends with them outside of school. Overall, I would really recommend this program to anyone interested in studying abroad. It was the best 4 months of my life!

I had such a great study abroad experience with the USAC Luneburg program! The city was so pretty, the housing was perfect, and my classes were so interesting. I learned so much about German culture and language. All of the staff were so friendly, supportive, and helpful. They made study abroad and settling into Germany feel so much easier. The program also included so many cool trips. My favorite trip was to Berlin, I got to experience so many parts of the city that I wouldn't of otherwise gotten to. I am so grateful to have studied abroad through this program, it was so much fun!

I had the opportunity to fulfill one of my life long dreams and the results were even better than I imagined. I met so many amazing and wonderful people from all over the world. The USAC staff onsite were very welcoming, friendly, and truly cared for each and every one of us. The program was laid out perfectly, with field trips being sprinkled across the semester. My favorite USAC field trip was snowshoeing in La Clusaz as the views were absolutely stunning- I have never seen anything like this being from the midwest. Lyon itself was a really engaging city, I felt like there were always events and places to go to. There were so many hidden gems throughout the city and it felt like an adventure uncovering them. The courses at UCLY were perfect and all the professors were very understanding and enjoyed answering your questions or working one on one with you. Overall, being in Lyon was an amazing opportunity and I am so grateful that I got to call that city home.

I had an amazing time in Madrid, Spain. There, I learned Spanish, met locals, made lifelong friends and traveled all across the country and Europe. My academic advisors and professors were so helpful every step of the way with supporting not only my academic but also my personal journey. I loved my housing situation as I lived in a beautiful apartment in the heart of the city with my very own room and amazing roommates! And all my classes were so fun and helpful in learning Spanish and I even got to take a photography class. I would recommend going to Madrid to anyone considering studying abroad!

Studying abroad in London with USAC was an incredible experience! The program made it easy to adjust, and the staff was always supportive and welcoming. I loved exploring the city, meeting new friends, and learning in such a vibrant environment. It was truly a life-changing opportunity that I’ll always be grateful for!

If you are someone who has never been outside the program or doesn’t speak Spanish, this program would probably be great for you. However, if you want full immersion you will not receive that through USAC. They don’t tell you that your classes will have zero locals which means you have to go out of your way to make local friends.

I traveled to Australia for a study abroad semester through USAC, and I had an excellent experience. I had the opportunity to meet many locals as well as other international students. I attended Griffith University, and the classes were fairly easy to immerse myself in as an international student. The area I was in, which was Gold Coast, Australia, was very walker-friendly and had good public transportation, and everything else went fairly smoothly. Since USAC is independent from my home university, it was a little difficult configuring my class schedule and numerous documents, but other than that it's smooth sailing.

I spent my spring 2025 semester in Yeosu! For the first time in my life I was going out into the world alone and I wouldn’t have done it without USAC! I chose the Korean intensive program in Yeosu with Chonnam National University and I had so much fun and definitely improved my Korean skills! At the beginning of the program i could barely speak in Korean but by the end of the program I was talking with the elders on the streets in Seoul! I’m very proud of how much I’ve grown in Yeosu. The coordinators Choi Eunyoung and Ma Gahee were the best! Through everything they helped from health insurance to just adapting to the new environment.

Studying abroad in South Korea has left such a lasting impact on my life! I made so many friends, tried new food I never knew existed, and made a lot of memories. I am so grateful I got to have this opportunity and most importantly I am grateful for all the help and support from my home university, host university, and USAC. My semester at Korea University is already the highlight of my year. I'll forever cherish the city of Seoul!

I learned so much and got to experience so many new things. I even took a windsurfing class which was highly educational. I honestly could not say enough good things about my four months there because I have a lifetime of memories and experiences.

Even though my program only lasted three weeks, I still have deeply fond memories of exploring Plaza de Los Luceros, eating tapas with friends at 100 Montaditos, hiking the mountain trail to el Castillo de Santa Barbara, taking the tram to the UA campus for class, and our group excursions to Guadalest and Valencia. The class we took was very fun and informative, and my classmates and I had a great time working together. The USAC and UA staff were wonderful and supportive throughout the duration of the program. I only wish we could have stayed longer!

I loved studying abroad in Tornio through USAC. I made a ton a life long friends, ones I still keep contact with 2 years later. The food, the travel, the school workload, and the experience in itself really was the perfect situation. I learned a ton about myself and Europe, something as an American I hadn’t really studied before. I’ll forever be thankful for this experience

I had a great semester. The admin and teacher in the program were the best people we could have had. They were extremely caring, funny, nice, and helpful. I learned more than I could have imagined from the teachers I had. The program was very clearly set up and the pre planned trips were amazing. The trip to Buenos Aires and Patagonia was incredible and not stressful at all. I also was able to travel all over South America. I left Uruguay with a whole new group of friends from all over.

I studied abroad in Torino, Italy, with USAC during the 2025 Spring semester. This experience was everything I expected and more! USAC was so great at explaining how to complete the necessary paperwork, VISA, etc., to study abroad. Once I arrived, the staff on-site was amazing. Eliana and Daniele were so helpful for the entirety of my stay in Torino. They coordinated everything from a trip to Bergamo and Lake Como, a tour of the city, and tours of both Torino F.C. and Juventus stadiums. As far as my classes went, I took five classes that allowed me to immerse myself in the Italian culture. I learned Italian, took a cooking class, an Intercultural Communication class, a Sports Business class, and an International Marketing class. Torino was perfect because it was a huge Italian city with lots to do. I really felt like I learned a lot about Italian culture studying abroad there, because it forced me to learn the language. Torino also allows you to travel anywhere you want from the train station. I visited a new country or city every weekend I was abroad. 10/10 experience, if you can go to Torino, go!

Studying in Maastricht is the best decision I have made. This experience was immersive and I met so many amazing people and made so many wonderful friends. I wouldn’t have had the opportunity to explore Europe without this experience and to learn about the culture.

My time abroad in Seoul, South Korea, was the best experience I've ever had. Studying abroad was my first time living on my own and in a different country. I felt a mix of anxiety and excitement when I first left, but within the first week at Yonsei, I knew I had made the right decision. I was able to fully immerse myself in a new culture and meet people from all over the world. Studying abroad was the best experience, and I would encourage everyone to try it at least once!

I had such an amazing time! I’m actually going back to live in Madrid for 10 months because I enjoyed my time there so much! That staff was amazing and most of the teachers I had were very kind! I would definitely recommend!

My time in Japan was life-changing. As a Nikkei student, I reconnected with roots my family had lost after internment and generations of cultural distance. From dorm life to local hikes, food, and community events, I gained authentic insight into daily Japanese life. Beyond travel, it was about reclaiming identity, building cross-cultural friendships, and finding confidence in who I am.

I studied in the spring of 2025 and had a great time. The people in the program as well as the staff were al amazing, kind, and supportive. The city itself was really quaint however looking back I do wish I choose a bigger city just because it would have been more my vibe. That being said I did also enjoy the small town vibes a bit in terms of the food and the people. I became really close friends with a couple locals and still talk to them almost everyday now and for that reason alone I am thankful for my experience. The one thing I would point out is that if you go in the spring it is not going to be the Mediterranean weather you might be expecting it will be cold and very rainy. Very happy I experienced this and this program will be great for anyone interested in photography, history, food, or just likes the small town feel.

Deciding to study abroad in Chiang Mai through USAC was one of the best decisions I have ever made. The staff was ridiculously helpful and the city itself was amazing. Wonderful field trips and all of the students became very close. Highly recommend a specialized program as the community you gain from being in the same cohort as other students is hard to beat. I would highly recommend this program to anyone, but especially those who love nature and learning about Buddhism and psychology. The professors are amazing as well.

My study abroad experience was nothing short of amazing. I loved my walks through the Hampstead Heath, taking the tube, indulging in British cuisine and visiting the year round markets like Camden and bourough market. I highly recommend it to everyone! It was the best choice I’ve ever made! It is now a goal of mine to live in London!

I loved this experience I endured in January! Although it was a little bit difficult to navigate the course work, I still had a blast! I absolutely loved be able to surf and go on so many excursions that were offered! (Especially skydiving ;)

Based on my experience, the USAC curriculum, while affordable and well-organized, did not provide a strong language challenge. However, this gave me more time to explore Chinese culture and daily life outside the classroom. I also had the opportunity to take extracurricular classes in instruments and archery (paid out-of-pocket), which helped me develop new skills and experiences beyond academics. When I studied abroad, the program had just reopened after being closed for a while due to COVID-19, so I understand there were still areas that needed adjustment. Because it was their first term back, there were fewer field trips than usual. I hope that in the future, the program will offer more excursions and more challenging Chinese language classes. That said, I think USAC did a great job overall, especially in supporting students, addressing any difficulties we faced, and even helping us find information or opportunities when we expressed interest in exploring something new.

I had such an amazing experience at Yonsei University making many new friendships from around the world to having many new life experiences in a different country. I wouldn’t change my time abroad for anything in the world and I would 100% do it again if I could. I would definitely recommend going in the Spring semester as I felt like there was more events and such offered during this time.

The usac program in Pau is great! It’s a really nice city, and the advisors did a great job planning trips for the group and helping us when we needed it. The only critique I have is that I wish we’d had more events/opportunities to meet the people living in Pau, but nonetheless it was still a great program.

This Spring I studied abroad in Cork, Ireland - What an amazing experience! I have always wanted to visit Ireland but I never would have imagined that I would have the opportunity to live there for five months! At the beginning the adjustment was hard. I missed my friends and home school, but I knew that this was an important decision for my personal growth. What I loved about this program was that there was just enough support, but it wasn't overbearing. It allowed me to meet new people and experience new things in a facilitated way, that were included in the program. It also inspired me to make my own experiences. I found that after a short time I had my routine living in Cork City - I went to the market, walked to school and the gym, and often went out to different social experiences in the evening. Now that I am home, it almost feels like a dream, but I know it was real! Thank you USAC for this great experience!

Very good, this was a very expensive program but I do not regret it at all. I met my favorite people in the world through this program and learned more than I have than in any other four month period in my life other than when I was a baby.

Getting the opportunity to study abroad was great and the experience of living in another country was awesome. I loved just about everything about my experience except the teaching/grading style and some little things that ultimately don’t matter too much about the housing situation.

I had a fun time in Korea! The food was amazing, the people were nice, and I felt that I got to experience a completely new life that I never thought I'd experience. I would say that the classes were a bit hard and I didn't really feel like I got a lot of support or check-ins during the semester from staff, but otherwise the experience was great.

I had such a great time in this culture immersion. All of my professors were great and truly passionate about what they were teaching. My living situation was amazing being able to live with a host family. I had home cooked meals every night that were super tasty. My just family was awesome and we got really close. I was able to travel to new places every weekend and discover a lot of the country as well as some of Panama too. I made good friends in my program and had fun with them. I would chose Costa Rica every time.

My time in Costa Rica was definitely hard but one of the most rewarding and eye-opening experiences I have ever had the pleasure of taking part in. Not only did my fear of being a solo traveller dissipate, I now strive to travel anywhere an everywhere whether it be with friends, solo, or with new people I meet along the way. Without my solo trip to La Fortuna, I would not have learned so much about myself and I certainly would not have met some of my best friends to this day. Thank you Costa Rica for opening my heart, mind, and soul to a new way of living and looking at the world around me.

As a Mexican-American going overseas and breaking frontiers and patterns is hard. This was a great opportunity to grow as an individual. I had the best time of my life. I would recommend it to others and would say YES, over and over again! I will forever remember my time at Korea University.

I met so many amazing people while I was in Madrid and had experiences and connections that I will spend the rest of my life reminiscing on. I hope I can be so lucky to do something so beautiful again! I got the opportunity to see Morocco, which completely changed my life, I went on short beach trips, made lifelong friends, experienced the culture, learned a ton of Spanish, and experienced freedom and independence for the first time in my life. I will be forever indebted the universe for allowing me to have experienced something so pure and beautiful and I will never be the same. Part of the reason this was possible is because the program, specifically Sara and Gabriela did a fantastic job making sure logistics were taken care of so all we had to worry about was settling in and having a wonderful experience.

I'm so glad that I went to Nagasaki to study abroad for the spring semester. Not only was I able to meet so many different friends from around the world, but I was also able to learn about Japanese culture and history. I enjoyed immersing myself in the community present in Nagasaki, which is so determined to spread the word of peace. It was also great to interact with Japanese students and improve my Japanese language skills. Coming to Nagasaki, what I really enjoyed was the beautiful scenery of cherry blossoms present at the beginning of the semester, and the abundance of trees in a rich green I had never seen before. It was truly a sight to see. Not to mention how Nagasaki is enriched with so much history and international cultural influences as a port city. There is just so much to learn.

To say this experience was life-changing would still be an understatement. During my time abroad, I had the chance to visit 16 countries and numerous cities across Europe and North Africa. I navigated diverse public transport systems, adapted to new environments, learned about various cultures, and formed lasting friendships with people from all over the world. This journey also helped me grow in my public speaking abilities, pick up a new language, and gain valuable insights into both my personal and professional life. Through the certainty and uncertainty of it all, I’ve learned more than I could have imagined. Studying abroad is a remarkable achievement, and I’m incredibly grateful for the experiences and lifelong friendships I’ve gained along the way.

Studying abroad in Australia has truly been the best experience of my life. From attending classes at Griffith University to exploring the beaches of the Gold Coast, every day felt like a new adventure. I’ve met incredible people from all over the world, and together we’ve created memories that will last forever — from weekend trips to Sydney and Byron Bay to spontaneous getaways to Bali and Fiji. This experience didn’t just expand my education; it expanded my view of the world. I’ve grown more independent, confident, and curious, and I’m grateful for every single moment of this journey. If you’re thinking about studying abroad, do it. It will change your life in ways you can’t even imagie.

"Studying abroad is something that you will always remember." This is something that everyone says as an alumni, and quite honestly it could not be more closer to the truth. You leave the country, scared, intrigued, and excited to be able to spread your own wings and fly. You get the chance to grow as a person... to find those pieces of yourself that you never knew you even had. It can alter you to a point where you feel like you have changed and grown so much as a person. And this is exactly what it does, you have learned a new culture, a new language, and have built and created a new way of living for yourself. Maybe that is why they say that the biggest culture shock happens when you come back home. You have to step off a plane and almost go back in time, it is one of the weirdest feelings there is, and it leaves you with a sense of altered perception. No matter where you go from now on, your heart will carry those memories with you. Study abroad has left a lasting footprint on my heart and I am so glad to say that I had this opportunity of a lifetime. So if anyone ever asks me what I found whilst studying abroad, I will answer back with... "I found a home away from home."

My study abroad experience in Torino, Italy was absolutely life-changing! From the moment I arrived, I was immersed in a city rich with culture, history, and breathtaking architecture. But what truly made this experience unforgettable were the incredible people I met along the way. I formed friendships that feel like they’ll last a lifetime. One of the highlights was the opportunity to travel to so many places all over Europe with my best friends. Each trip was an adventure filled with new sights, tastes, and unforgettable memories. Some of my favorite places included Prague, Amsterdam, Barcelona, France, Switzerland, and the Amalfi Coast. This experience broadened my world in every way, not just academically. I came home with a heart full of memories, family-like friendships, and a greater understanding of the value of connection and travel. This experience wouldn't have been possible without the amazing guidance and help from USAC. Torino will always hold a special place in my heart!

USAC holds a really special place in my heart! I can't recommend it enough. The program organizers are amazing and very willing to help. The university is great and so are the professors, and Uruguay is a great place to live and study abroad. 10/10 experience!!

Truly the best experience of my life. I easily fell in love with the city and everything it has to offer. Clean, safe, incredibly easy to get around. Shanghai is very much an international city so if you’re only just beginning to study the language it’s a good place to start. Beyond Shanghai, I also had the opportunity to travel across the country, visiting Beijing, Hunan, and Guangzhou.

I had an incredible experience in San Sebastián. I studied there Spring 2025. If you are looking for a study abroad experience to learn about Spain and learn Spanish, San Sebastián is the perfect place. I had family meals with my host family and went to lots of futbol games with them. I learned so much Spanish from my host parents including how and why to say things.

Everything about the USAC program was unbelievable! Whether it was the prestigious academics at UPV or exploring the beautiful city of Valencia, USAC make the experience one of a kind. Was lucky to be given an apartment in walking distance from my university and the gorgeous beaches that line the coast of Valencia. Would definitely recommend.

Living in Korea was an experience that became a part of me, and now that I’m away, I miss it more than I can explain. The country wasn’t just where I stayed it became my home. I miss the rhythm of my daily life there: the sound of the subway arriving, the smell of street food in the evenings, and the way the city never truly slept. Even the small routines, like late-night walks to the convenience store or grabbing a coffee on the way to class, felt special. What I miss most are the people and the connections I made. Sharing laughter over endless plates of Korean BBQ, warming up with hot soups in the winter, or simply hanging out in cozy cafés created memories that I carry with me every day. I also miss the feeling of discovery finding hidden alleyways, stumbling upon festivals, or traveling to the mountains and beaches that showed a completely different side of the country. Korea taught me independence, gave me unforgettable moments, and filled my heart with experiences I’ll treasure forever. Now, when I think back, it feels like a second home calling me back. A piece of me will always miss Korea.

Studying abroad in Chiang Mai was the best decision I have made during my academic career so far. This program has a stellar staff that genuinely care about you and want you to succeed. During my Spring semester, I was able to take several interesting courses including Buddhist Psychology and Buddhism in Thailand, which had accompanying field trips and applied practice. The community around us was welcoming as we were introduced to our "Thai Buddies" who helped us get acclimated to the new environment around us. I spent my days exploring Chiang Mai and trying a wide variety of new foods. The Songkran water festival in April was life-changing and an incredible cultural experience. I would recommend this program to anyone who isn't afraid to explore and embrace a new culture. The dorm situation was superb, with a spacious single room and bathroom all to myself on a floor with the other students in the program. We had a community built on our shared classes, went out for dinner together each night, and went on arranged field trips with our program advisors. I can't emphasize enough how amazing the field trips were, and I recommend signing up for all of them (most are completely free). We had the chance to make traditional crafts, bathe elephants, tour gardens and farms, and bicycle through the countryside. Additionally we explored waterfalls and national parks with our new friends from Chiang Mai University through the Thai Buddies program. During this study abroad, we had several periods of holidays from class and many people were able to explore more of Thailand and visit places like Bangkok and Krabi. This is one of the least expensive programs, but it has some of the greatest staff and field trips of any program and I would highly recommend it.

Sara and Gabriela (the program instructors) were incredible and made my experience exponentially more safe and fulfilling. The professors were great and my Spanish improved significantly! I felt challenged by my coursework without missing out on experiencing the city. I made friends in the program and enjoyed the day trips with the group. I really liked my shared apartment and got very lucky with its location. I'm so glad I chose USAc because their on the ground support felt very secure while I was abroad.

I enjoyed my time in Uruguay so much! The program directors are great, always helpful. My host mom was a very kind woman and I am thankful she let me into her home. I felt safe most of the time and loved getting immersed into the culture. The professors were great and I learned a lot. I am so glad I was able to improve quite a bit with my spanish.

Studying abroad was truly one of the most rewarding experiences of my college career. Living and learning in a new country challenged me to step outside my comfort zone, adapt to different cultures, and gain a new perspective on the world. I not only grew academically, but also personally-building confidence, independence, and lifelong friendships along the way. One of the best parts of the program was the opportunity to immerse myself in daily life abroad, from attending classes with local professors to exploring new cities and traditions. Every experience, big or small, helped me see the value of global connections and reminded me how important it is to be open-minded and adaptable. I highly encourage anyone considering study abroad to take the leap. It’s an investment in yourself and your future that goes far beyond academics. The lessons I learned and the memories I made will stay with me long after graduation.

Looking back on my abroad journey, I wouldn’t change a thing. I have grown so much as a person and I truly think I have found who I am. I never thought I would enjoy being so independent and on my own, however, I love it. I would recommend this program and this place to everyone, however, I am selfish to say that I truly think you get what you put in to it. I woke up everyday at around 5am and began my day. I truly think I made the most out of my experience and that is something I will never regret. Overall I had the time of my life!

The Reggio Emilia program through USAC was such an amazing experience! The program advisors, were so helpful and were willing to help with anything. The professors were super knowledgeable and the workload was manageable. During this time I met so many amazing people and made life long connections!

The year I spent in Nagasaki was the best year of my life. The university is small, with less than 1000 students and teachers combined, making it easy to meet people and form connections. I typically struggle to make friends, but here I made friends from countries all over the world. There are many opportunities for personal growth, both academically and through community involvement. Nagasaki is a great location because it has a rich history of cultural exchange and is very welcoming to foreigners.

I went to Nagasaki Japan with the desire to improve my Japanese skills and develop a cultural understanding of the area. That is exactly the experience I had beyond expectations. I of course had some hurtless, figuring out what courses would count towards my degree was the hardest part. GADAI/NUFS the college I went to was small and cozy a stark contrast to my large university in the states. My most important experience was learning about the effects of the atomic bomb on Nagasaki. I encourage all to study abroad somewhere and if you're looking for a place neck deep in diverse cultures I fully reccomend this program. Every one of my struggles was 100% worth the experience I was blessed to have.

I went through USAC to the Brisbane campus of Griffith University, and it was one of the most fun semesters I've ever had! The program staff were so helpful and knowledgeable at each step of the trip, which really made the process easy. I really enjoyed staying on campus and getting to make new friends, both Australian students and exchange students from all over the world! I appreciated the flexibility of the campus options, though I thought it was silly that you could only study at one when several of the other campuses were only a short bus or shuttle ride away. There was so much to see and so many different experiences close by that there is something for everyone. As an outdoorsy person I loved that the campus backed up to a forest reserve! I loved my time in Australia and met some friends I still keep in constant contact with almost a year later!

This was truly one of the best experiences of my life! Studying abroad was such an amazing opportunity I will never forget. I made some of the best memories and had incredible experiences every single day. The USAC program and Dara my program director were so helpful with every step and all my questions along the way, I felt super supported. While living in London for ninth months, I was able to work as a bartender, travel to 13 other countries and study film hands-on making several short films. It was so perfect, I would recommend to anyone! I would love to do a study-abroad graduate program now.

I was in Pau for 4 months and it was filled with outing and cultural experiences. I stayed with the host family and had the opportunity to see what the day-to-day life was like for a French family. Going out, and my life was a big part of my study abroad experience. I enjoyed speaking to the shopkeepers who were always welcoming and speaking to the servers and bartenders who were always interested to talk to the foreign students. This made immersing myself and adapting myself to the culture very easy.

I had the greatest opportunity to study abroad in Seoul, South Korea, to study at Yonsei University for 6 weeks! I experienced taking a class that was in full Korean to study the language, tried new cultural foods, and even got to wear a traditional hanbok to enter a historical palace. I would 100% do this trip over and over again! You would have the best summer of your life! Make sure to be open to new experiences, new sights, and new people. Embrace the awkwardness and have fun!!!

My experience studying abroad in Heredia was life-changing and an amazing experience, both for learning in a new environment and for making friends. Staying with my host mother and getting to be immersed in the culture there gave me a new perspective on how people of other nationalities live, work, and have fun as a community. The classes I took as a biology major furthered my knowledge in ecology, and also gave me a chance to explore the diverse and unique ecosystems of Costa Rica. The other students in my program were wonderful, and we made so many memories together. Study abroad has made my life richer and given me adventure. I recommend USAC programs to everyone I meet and anyone who will listen!

Studying abroad in South Korea was one of the most eye-opening experiences of my life. It wasn’t always easy—the constant weather changes made me sick more often than I expected, and the extra costs of medicine and care pushed my budget more than I had planned. But those challenges taught me how to adapt quickly and take better care of myself. What I enjoyed most was the feeling of actually living there instead of just visiting. Over time, I learned my way around, could order food without hesitation, and felt comfortable navigating the subway. I also built some amazing friendships that made the experience even more meaningful—we explored the city together, tried new foods, and shared a lot of laughs. Campus life was another highlight. I actually looked forward to going to class every day, not just to learn but to connect with my professors, who were incredibly supportive and engaging. Outside of school, I had so many personal adventures—whether it was wandering through traditional markets, going to noraebang alone, or staying out late for street food and drinks with friends. Those everyday moments, big and small, became memories I’ll carry with me forever. Overall, studying in Korea helped me grow more independent, adaptable, and open-minded. It pushed me outside of my comfort zone, gave me lifelong friendships, and showed me how rewarding it is to embrace both the challenges and joys of living in a new culture. I will go back in the future and not just because I love it there, but because my vision of working there in the future as an English teacher is now certain.

Studying abroad in South Korea was one of the most eye-opening experiences of my life. It wasn’t always easy—the constant weather changes made me sick more often than I expected, and the extra costs of medicine and care pushed my budget more than I had planned. But those challenges taught me how to adapt quickly and take better care of myself. What I enjoyed most was the feeling of actually living there instead of just visiting. Over time, I learned my way around, could order food without hesitation, and felt comfortable navigating the subway. I also built some amazing friendships that made the experience even more meaningful—we explored the city together, tried new foods, and shared a lot of laughs. Campus life was another highlight. I actually looked forward to going to class every day, not just to learn but to connect with my professors, who were incredibly supportive and engaging. Outside of school, I had so many personal adventures—whether it was wandering through traditional markets, going to noraebang alone, or staying out late for street food and drinks with friends. Those everyday moments, big and small, became memories I’ll carry with me forever. Overall, studying in Korea helped me grow more independent, adaptable, and open-minded. It pushed me outside of my comfort zone, gave me lifelong friendships, and showed me how rewarding it is to embrace both the challenges and joys of living in a new culture. I will go back in the future and not just because I love it there, but because my vision of working there in the future as an English teacher is now certain.

Studying abroad in South Korea was one of the most eye-opening experiences of my life. It wasn’t always easy—the constant weather changes made me sick more often than I expected, and the extra costs of medicine and care pushed my budget more than I had planned. But those challenges taught me how to adapt quickly and take better care of myself. What I enjoyed most was the feeling of actually living there instead of just visiting. Over time, I learned my way around, could order food without hesitation, and felt comfortable navigating the subway. I also built some amazing friendships that made the experience even more meaningful—we explored the city together, tried new foods, and shared a lot of laughs. Campus life was another highlight. I actually looked forward to going to class every day, not just to learn but to connect with my professors, who were incredibly supportive and engaging. Outside of school, I had so many personal adventures—whether it was wandering through traditional markets, going to noraebang alone, or staying out late for street food and drinks with friends. Those everyday moments, big and small, became memories I’ll carry with me forever. Overall, studying in Korea helped me grow more independent, adaptable, and open-minded. It pushed me outside of my comfort zone, gave me lifelong friendships, and showed me how rewarding it is to embrace both the challenges and joys of living in a new culture. I will go back in the future and not just because I love it there, but because my vision of working there in the future as an English teacher is now certain.

While going abroad seemed very daunting the staff at USAC made my trip so smooth. I knew I could reach out to anyone at anytime and they would do their best to help me out. Everyone was super welcoming and provided friendly faces in a foreign country. I would do that semester over 100 times because of how amazing it was

I had the best experience studying abroad in South Korea! USAC provided me with all the materials I needed in order to successfully complete this journey. I'm so happy I used their program and was able to have an experience of a lifetime!

Studying in Galway was an experience like no other I had ever had (especially academic wise). I primarily went to study literature but felt fully immersed in the history and culture of this amazing place. All staff was very accommodating and made sure our experience as students was great.

I didn't love my schooling due to some credits not transferring and the classes being a little weirdly structured, other than that I loved it. I loved all the people I met and I loved Lisbon and it's locals.

I found love in Verona! Verona might originally be recognized for Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet but there is huge cultural significance and love found in family life, wine, music, and history. This program gave me the inspiration and independence to learn about things outside myself and also be comfortable in uncomfortableness. I learned a lot about international marketing and Italian culture which helped me adapt to my environment. Verona is the perfect mix of city and quaint town. If you want an experience that is authentic, safe, and beautiful this specific program is for you. It was way easier to adapt to a slower paced environment in this area than typical study abroad picks in major international cities. I would recommend this place to anybody who is interested in studying abroad. Out of all the travel in northern Italy, Verona is still my favorite. Another perk to this pick is that it is very close to other neighboring countries like Germany, France, and Switzerland making holiday travel more efficient via flight or train. I found love in Verona, not a romantic love but a love for learning about the world around me.

Taking classes, traveling, and living in Costa Rica was the highlight of my college experience. I had never traveled outside of the United States before so I learned that there is a lot that I don’t know. Being immersed in a new culture taught me that you have to experience a place to truly know what the way of life is like there. I enhanced my Spanish skills and learned that preconceived ideas about a culture is harmful and we need to be careful about how we think about other groups and cultures because it may be unkind.

Going abroad was the best experience of my life and I gained so much knowledge not only about other cultures but about myself. This program was filled with amazing people that I will be friends with for a lifetime. However living arrangement wasn’t the best due to the condition of the house and cleanliness for the cost. The admin were great for the most part besides the fact that when we were in danger they did not do much to help.

I wouldn't trade my time in Viterbo for anything. The classes were engaging, and the city itself was safe and exciting. As the weather warmed up, the shops and restaurants welcomed us in. The locals were all very kind and wanted to get to know us. The people were also amazing, and the ability to immerse ourselves in the culture was incredible.

My study abroad was great and I would definitely go back to New Zealand, just not to study abroad. The academics were horrible. It was also very very expensive and nobody would give me a job as an international student so I really struggled financially. The people are great though and so was the landscape. I was in Palmerston North my whole study abroad and it was very small, a big change from my big city life, but I would definitely come back to visit friends.

Studying abroad, like it is for many others, was one of the best experiences of my life. Even though everything didn’t get 10 stars, I met life long friends and learned so much that I will carry with me for the rest of my life. Each day was valuable and brought me something new

I loved the USAC Program Alicante. I was there from January - May 2025. I chose Spain because I wanted the classic European study abroad experience and I chose Spain because I wanted to work on my Spanish. I stayed with a host family that was super kind and made great food and was located close to the city center of Alicante, and about a 20 minute walk to the beach. The classes were very interesting and had good professors but a very manageable amount of homework. It was really nice to not have classes on Fridays. Alicante is a beautiful city on the Mediterranean and as a mid size Spanish city, it has everything you need and more, but isn't too overwhelming. The program director from USAC was very kind, friendly, and helpful. I would highly recommend this program! I would recommend looking up Youtube videos of Alicante to see what the city looks like. It also has a nice airport with a good amount of flights.

Studying abroad truly changed my life! I had always dreamt of going abroad and USAC made that possible with still being able to graduate on time. Nobody prepares you for the lifelong friendships you will make while being abroad and the true sense of independence that comes with being in a new environment on your own.

Studying abroad was something I always wanted to do growing up. I had the opportunity to study abroad to Verona, Italy taking my business management courses to international level. As well learning a language on top of it, it was nice to meet people in the community and make new friends. I have also grew professionally and personally which was my goal. It’s also beautiful to of course travel around to other countries and within Italy. If you have the chance to go this is your sign.

North India is much more well-known than its southern counterpart, but I truly believe every student should experience living in Bengaluru and the beautiful South India. This is not necessarily a beginner-friendly nation to travel or live abroad in, but if you have travelled alone before or if you are looking for adventure and challenge, this is the place. India has many religions, cultures, languages, and medicinal systems sharing space and co-existing peacefully. It's colorful, full of flavor, and easy to find vegetarian or even vegan options (that actually taste amazing!). Money-wise this is the most affordable program you will find. The most expensive part will be the plane ticket over, but after that most meals are maybe 2 US dollars, and you can get any souvenirs or clothing for very very inexpensive prices if you practice bargaining like a local! Don't miss out on this chance because India seems overwhelming or intense. Instead, embrace the unknown and learn something new about yourself and India. The locals are always excited when people are in South India to genuinely experience and ask questions about the culture, so you will have so much support!

I chose to study abroad in Torino because I wanted to be in Italy but not one of the biggest cities. I loved Torino because I had plenty of things to do and places to explore but was not full of tourists. Our program Supervisors Eliana and Danielle were awesome. They did a great job at teaching us about Italian culture and getting is immersed in the city. They are were always available to help and answer questions when we needed it. All of the group trips that we did with the program were well planned and very enjoyable. I got to meet some of my now favorite people and I would highly recommend this program.

My time in Reggio Emilia was genuinely the best. The apartment living forced me to really immerse myself in the language and culture. The friends I gained made the experience for me. We still talk because we just got that close through the program. The tight-knit structure of USAC was really everything I wanted and more.

Studying abroad in Costa Rica was a transformative experience that introduced me to the warm and welcoming Tico lifestyle. Through daily cultural immersion, I gained a deeper appreciation for Costa Rican values of community, simplicity, and joy. This experience also allowed me to reconnect with and redefine my own Latina identity, helping me feel more grounded in who I am.

I had a great time at Torino, Italy. I learned many things about cultures, living abroad and studying in a different country. It was an amazing experience I totally recommend everyone to live. As far as it concerns the courses I attended at Unito I would say that they were not as difficult as I expected comparing to my home country.

This program was packed full of classes and lots of travel to see amazing things. When it came to the living situation on campus I will say it could be improved but I’m not mad as I didn’t have to share and I got to have free time. I do wish there was more known around the campus as there were several places I wasn’t able to go much later in the trip since I didn’t know abt it. The people were one of the best parts of the trip and I felt like I was able to be myself fully.

Going to Galway, Ireland was the best choice in studying aboard! When I was trying to find what country I wanted to go to, I saw Galway, Ireland and classes they had. The classes that they offered were so interesting!

I had never spent more than a week away from my family, and then I spent my spring 2022 semester with USAC in Montevideo, Uruguay, and it far exceeded any of my expectations! The program directors (Sebastian & Orlando) and teachers were all very welcoming, friendly, and supportive. My home stay experience was lovely in an apartment that was less than a 10-minute walk from the university and a family that made me feel like one of their own. The city is very walkable, and the bus system was easy to use. I felt very safe and was able to access healthcare services when needed. As a history student, getting to study Latin American history while living in a Latin American country was truly an unbeatable and unforgettable experience. I took two field study courses that ensured the learning went outside the classroom and included field trips that were fun and culturally enriching. The viticulture field study trips particularly stand out for their high quality; those meals were some of the most elegant I have ever had. The friends I made that semester are still some of my closest friends, even though they live in different states, or even in some cases, other countries. It is safe to say that thanks to USAC, Uruguay will ALWAYS have a very special place in my heart!

This program was an amazing experience. I really felt immersed in the French culture and going abroad with a group of other American students provided a community that helped a lot with feelings of homesickness. We had the opportunity to go to a winery and a few tours to different regions in France which was very fun. Lyon itself was a great city to live in, there were tons of options of things to do and the public transit system was so easy to use. If I had enough time I would do it again!

My time in London taught me so much about life and I’ll never forget it! Being on my own in another country felt like the first time I was truly self sufficient in my life and I had to make it work for me. I loved every lesson I learned and every friend I made. The experiences I had were life changing, and I can’t wait until I get the chance to go back to London!

I never knew anyone that studied abroad. My hometown is very small and rural, and my college is made up of students with similar backgrounds. USAC made the process so easy and seamless - especially for someone who had no idea what to expect. USAC offered immense support from the application process to getting settled in our house. This study abroad experience was life changing and I recommend USAC to everyone who is considering studying abroad, especially if you don’t know anything about the process.

My study abroad experience in Spain was nothing short of transformative. From the moment I arrived, I felt an inexplicable connection, a sense of belonging that made it feel like a home away from home. Immersing myself in the Spanish culture was a truly enriching experience. I relished the opportunity to explore ancient cities, each with its own unique story etched into its architecture and cobblestone streets. The warmth of the Spanish people embraced me, making me feel like a part of their community. I savored the tantalizing flavors of traditional Spanish cuisine, from paella to tapas, each dish a celebration of local ingredients and culinary artistry. Engaging in conversations with locals, I marveled at their passion for life, their deep-rooted traditions, and their unwavering sense of community. This immersive experience broadened my horizons, challenging my perspectives and deepening my understanding of the world. It was a journey of self-discovery, where I learned to embrace the unfamiliar, adapt to new environments, and appreciate the beauty of cultural diversity. Studying abroad in Spain was an adventure that will forever hold a special place in my heart, shaping the person I am today.

I don’t studied in Italy for five weeks, and I can easily say it was the best five weeks ever. Study abroad in general is such an amazing opportunity, but studying through USAC really set me up for success. Each and every staff member I communicated with, on and off site, was so helpful and kind and genuinely helped me make the best of my five weeks there. I also think the location was perfect. It’s still a tourist city, so a lot to do and see, but not too overwhelming. It was such a great place to call my home away from home. I cannot recommend USAC enough.

My four months in Alicante were truly the best of my life. Living with a host family gave me a deep, personal connection to Spanish culture, and the field trips organized by our program advisor were incredibly fun and well-planned. I learned so much, gained confidence, and grew in ways I never expected. I highly recommend this program to anyone looking for an unforgettable study abroad experience.

Carlos and Cristina were amazing! I immediately felt welcomed and safe being a part of USAC. I made so many friends, loved my host family and learned so much from my classes and traveling around Costa Rica. I only did one summer semester but I wish I did two. Having a couple trips pre-planned as a group made it easy to feel included and bond as a group. All the professors were accommodating and understanding, giving us the best learning experience possible. I cannot say enough about how much I loved my experience.

Honestly great. Living by the coast was amazing. Classes were hard but manageable. Loved it! Our apartment was very nice as well. Located right on the water and very clean. There is honestly nothing I would change about this course.

The four months that I spent in Alicante were most definitely the most four months of my life. I learned a new language, immersed myself in the culture, and made lifelong friends. I loved getting to experience a new way of living and it wouldn’t have been possible without the amazing USAC team. Both the pre-departure staff and the onsite staff were wonderful and so eager to help and make it an amazing experience.

My time in London completely changed my life. I felt like I was truly free and on my own for the first time, and I was able to make my own decisions about what I did and where I went. My friends I made were amazing and I was able to get super immersed into the community. My class work was interesting, but left time for me to explore the city after class. I wish I could go back!

Studying abroad was a wonderful immersive experience that led to improving my Spanish fluency and learning about a culture I most likely would not have been exposed to otherwise. The trips that were a part of the program like going to Valparaiso and Viña Del Mar were great ways to also see Chilean life outside of the capital, as well as see the nature and beauty of the country.

I had an incredible time and learned so much! I felt so safe while being in Bilbao and felt that the city was easy to navigate. I loved my apartment and all the friends I made. We went on so many cool trips like to san juan gaztelugatxe, art museums, wine tasting, surfing, a fancy spa as San Sebastian, and went to France. There were endless cool things to experience and I had the time of my life.

I loved every minute of it. I didn't mesh a lot with other groups members, my one thing I would change would be that I wish the group was bigger but I have no complaints about anything else. The staff is amazing, living in the dorms was fun and I learned so much more than I could ever imagine.

During the Fall 2021 semester, I had the incredible opportunity to study abroad at the University of Reading in England. Although the journey to get there was long and marked by a year of deferral due to the pandemic, the experience was well worth the wait and ultimately became one of the most enriching chapters of my life. From the moment I began university, I knew I wanted to study abroad. When the time finally arrived, I was beyond excited, ready to embrace the unexpected. I chose England not only because I had family there but also because, from a young age, I envisioned spending an extended period immersed in its culture. After attending a study abroad fair during my freshman year, I gathered brochures from various programs and explored my options. Eventually, I came across USAC, which offered affordable opportunities and access to reputable universities in the UK. Despite there being only four program locations in England, I ultimately chose Reading for its proximity to popular destinations, beautiful green campus, and highly regarded business school, which aligned with my academic goals. Looking back, I couldn’t be happier with my choice. One of the highlights of preparing for the semester was connecting with fellow students ahead of time. A USAC participant reached out before the semester began and organized a group chat for everyone attending the Reading program. Meeting other students virtually before arriving made the housing process smoother and helped me transition more comfortably. One of the most rewarding aspects of studying at Reading was the incredible diversity on campus. I met students from all over the world, which not only enriched my cultural perspective but also made everyday interactions exciting and educational. From trying new foods and getting tips from local students to embracing unique cultural experiences, I made it a point to immerse myself fully. One of my most memorable experiences was a 14-mile hike along the English coastline, organized by the USAC program director. It was both challenging and breathtaking, and I still cherish the sense of accomplishment I felt. Another highlight was sharing cultural traditions with friends - my American peers and I made a classic dessert to share with our British friends, who in turn treated us to a homemade British meal. These exchanges made our friendships even more meaningful. The fast and efficient public transportation system and Reading’s central location made exploring the UK incredibly easy. I visited Oxford, just a 20-minute journey away, where I toured the historic university that inspired the Harry Potter films. A weekend trip to Snowdonia National Park in Wales left me in awe of its beauty; I’ll never forget encountering three rainbows in one day while exploring the park and nearby villages. During Reading Week, we went to Edinburgh, Scotland - a trip filled with so much joy. As the semester came to an end, I found it hard to believe it was over. The experience had exceeded my expectations in every way. I made lifelong friends, explored new places, and embraced every opportunity that came my way. My time at the University of Reading left me more independent, open-minded, and eager for future adventures. Thanks to the USAC community’s continued support, my dream of living abroad didn’t end with my semester in England. Four years later, it’s now my reality. Studying abroad transformed me, giving me skills, perspectives, and memories that will last a lifetime.

Studying abroad with USAC in Alicante was truly the best experience of my life. From the moment I arrived, I felt welcomed and supported by the entire USAC staff. Everyone was incredibly friendly and helpful, especially the program director, Luis. He genuinely cares about every student, and it shows in the way he goes out of his way to make sure we’re learning, having fun, and making the most of our time abroad. You can tell the staff love what they do—they create such a positive and caring environment. Almost every weekend, we went on trips and tours of the city or nearby towns, which helped me experience so much of Alicante and its beautiful culture. Whether we were visiting museums, exploring castles, or just walking along the beach, every outing felt meaningful. I was able to see and do so much more than I ever expected. I stayed in an apartment during my time there, and it was so cozy and comfortable—it quickly felt like home. Living in the city made me feel like a real Spanish student. I got to shop at the local markets, walk to class, and immerse myself in everyday life in Alicante. Every day felt like a new adventure, whether I was trying new foods, practicing Spanish with locals, or just enjoying the view of the sea. I also learned so much from my teachers and classes. The professors were passionate, approachable, and made the material interesting and relevant. I felt like I was not only learning about the language but also truly understanding the culture and way of life in Spain. If I could do it all over again, I would go back to Alicante in a heartbeat. It’s an experience I’ll never forget, and I’m so grateful for everything USAC made possible.

Studying abroad in Madrid through USAC was a life-changing experience that exceeded all of my expectations. Not only did the program offer classes I needed to complete my minor degree, but it also gave me the chance to immerse myself in what I think is one of Europe’s most beautiful and culturally rich countries. The housing accommodations were comfortable, safe, and conveniently located. Any specific requests I had were quickly addressed, which made adjusting to life in Madrid easy. The program coordinator, Sara, was outstanding—knowledgeable, approachable, and deeply committed to making our experience the best it could be. Sara even took the time to personally walk me through the neighborhood that I was living in while in Madrid. Beyond academics, the cultural experience was unforgettable. I explored the many different neighborhoods of Madrid, visited museums, and built lifelong friendships with other students in the program. Every day truly offered something new and meaningful. If you’re considering a USAC program, I can’t recommend choosing a Spanish city enough. It allowed me to expand my horizons culturally and academically. Take the leap because you won’t regret it!

I studied abroad a few summers ago in San Sebastián and I think about my experience at least once a day. The program was so helpful and I feel like I learned so much Spanish. The four field trips I went on were so fun and interesting, and my random roommates I was placed with, are now some of my closest friends. This experience also convinced me to teach abroad in Madrid once I graduated. To anyone considering this opportunity, please do it!

I genuinely could not say enough good things about this program and the people involved. The professors were amazing, and really cared about their students and wanted them to learn, but also have fun and immerse themselves in the culture. Everyone I met was amazing and we created a community there. Studying abroad was the best decision, and even though I was so scared to leave everything I knew, I had the best time. I always wish I was back studying abroad. This program is amazing and everyone involved was working so hard to make sure we were safe, learning, and having an amazing time. I could not recommend studying abroad/this specific program enough!

The Khon Kaen USAC program offers everything you could want in a study abroad experience—immersive culture, hands-on internships, engaging classes, and unforgettable memories. As someone studying abroad for the first time, it was an opportunity I couldn’t have passed up.

Studying abroad was the best thing I have done in my life so far. Not only was Torino a beautiful city with endless things to do, but it is where I met lifelong friends and memories that will never leave. I went here not knowing what to expect and came back a whole new person!! If you are currently up in the air about studying abroad, I highly recommend it. It is what you make it!

I absolutely loved going abroad this past summer in Stirling, Scotland with USAC. They were incredibly helpful, communicative, and the program is super affordable! I would absolutely recommended this program to anyone. They organized lots of activities around and on-campus. The dorms are super nice, and I loved the courses I took while there. Overall, the entire program was amazing, and I wish I could go back!

I had the most fun time of my life. I was lucky enough to find a good friend group early on, so i didnt partake in a lot of planned events by the school/usac except for the field trips and activities i signed up for prior. Explore the city, drink 7/11 soju on the sidewalks instead of in bars/restaurants to save money, but be safe. Force yourself to be extroverted and reach out to make friends as early as possible. 5 weekends goes by faster than you could imagine.

Thank you to University Studies Abroad Consortium (USAC) for this opportunity to have neurosurgeon Dr. Abel and neuroanesthesiologist Dr. Armando as my professors for such a unique experience. With students from all over the US, I was able to visit: - a polyclinic - a geriatric care home - a maternity care home - a family doctor clinic - a pharmacy - one of the original science academies of Cuba (now a museum) - so many other places! Having been able to interact with a variety clients, patients, and health care professionals has made this one of the most fruitful classes l've ever taken.

I had an amazing time I previously had talked to some friends that were going off of Instagram. Then I met them when I arrived and we haven’t stopped talking since I came. They are now flying over to come and see me again.

I am truly grateful for my time abroad. Not only did I get to improve my language skills which was my primary goal, but I also found a new community, experiences, and many more things I would not have imagined! Through the constant community and exploration, I was able to make a home from what seemed like a strange place at first. I created a relationships with a host family and friends that I have remained connected with. I was able to explore many parts of France that not many people know about which has made it exciting to share since I have come back home! There is so much that studying abroad has brought me and I will forever say that studying abroad was one of the best experiences I have had thus far!

Overall, I would recommend Maastricht if you enjoy: smaller city vibes, nature, and the quiet lifestyle. Don't get me wrong, there are places to party and hangout, but if you want to go someplace to party, I would not recommend Maastricht. That being said, I am not a party-er and therefore loved the city and University of Maastricht. The university buildings were really cool, and classes are based on "problem-based learning." Be prepared to present multiple times throughout a semester and read a lot, however, I enjoyed this type of learning, I felt like I was far more engaged with the content than American-styled lecture classes. Additionally, I would NOT recommend Maastricht if you want to travel to other countries frequently. The hassle of getting to a nearby city that does have an airport can be quite stressful, time-consuming, and expensive. You might find it cheaper and easier in the long-run to just go Study Abroad in a different city than in Maastricht, but I still really enjoyed Maastricht.

My study abroad trip in Heredia, Costa Rica will forever be one of the best decisions I made during college. I decided to go on this trip because some of my sorority sisters went on it the previous year and couldn’t stop raving about it. On the trip, I got to immerse myself in Costa Rican culture. I met ticos (Costa Rican natives), developed better Spanish-speaking skills, and got to try all kinds of different foods. At the same time, I was also earning 7 credits towards my college transcript. The teachers were extremely patient and helpful when correcting my Spanish, and the campus is beautiful. I had to learn how to ride the bus everyday to campus, which was a meaningful experience in itself. My USAC advisors planned trips and activities for my group and I, including playing indoor soccer, roller-skating, going to the city, and exploring tropical rainforests. Overall, studying in Heredia, Costa Rica made me develop life skills and try new things that I wouldn’t have the chance to try anywhere else, making it a truly transformative experience. I recommend the Heredia, Costa Rica study abroad trip to anyone who wants to deepen their cultural understanding and have unforgettable experiences.

I hold this study abroad experience in Reggio Emilia so so so close to my heart. I loved the town, fantastic food, friendly people, the program has really good staff. I loved meeting everyone in my program and around the town. I had the opportunity to travel a lot around Italy, you can do some great day trips from Reggio Emilia as well. 10/10 definitely recommend

My month in Prague was amazing and probably the best time of my life. I got to see so much cool stuff on my own and was provided so many unique experiences with USAC, like visiting a medieval mine, a huge fort, countless medieval churches, museums, and boat tour! I got to meet several awesome people and got to celebrate my 21st birthday in a Irish karaoke bar. I got to see museums of history I have always wanted to see (I even got to go into not one but two cold war bunkers!). Overall so much fun and has defiantly made me want to move there!

Studying abroad in Prague was by far the best decision I ever made and would do it again in a heartbeat if I could. The city is breathtaking, clean, and easy to navigate, and the program left me with knowledge, appreciation of Czech culture, and friendships I wouldn't trade for the world. It was my last semester in college, so I chose to go out with a bang. I still communicate with my professors and fellow students, as well as locals I met while there. It's been two years, and I still dream of cobblestone streets, the metro, castles, and quaint coffee shops. If I can say one thing to you if you are considering this program, it's 100% do it. You won't regret it. I wish I could do it again.

My study abroad experience in Chiang Mai was an extraordinary journey of both self-discovery and intellectual growth. Immersed in a community that embraced kindness as its core value, I found myself learning how to be a more mindful and present person. The opportunity to step outside my familiar bubble, engaging with the local culture and people, transformed my understanding of the world. From the nourishing and affordable food to the sustainable practices I encountered, every detail of the environment inspired a deeper appreciation for life. A particularly transformative part of my education came from my professors. They are deeply committed to helping us apply classroom concepts to the world around us, using cultural immersion to bring lessons to life. Whether we were enjoying meals prepared by locals, exploring temples, or learning from community members, every experience allowed us to connect academic theory with real-world practice, enriching my understanding of sustainability in profound ways. Their perspective helped me to become a more grounded and centered individual, capable of experiencing life with greater peace and connection. Chiang Mai was a place that allowed me to explore, not just intellectually, but emotionally and spiritually, leaving me with lifelong friendships, a deeper understanding of sustainability, and a clearer sense of self. The sense of security, safety and belonging I felt throughout the entire country allowed me to move freely, experience its wonders, and connect with people on a deeply human level.

I hold this study abroad experience in Reggio Emilia so so so close to my heart. I loved the town, fantastic food, friendly people, the program has really good staff. I loved meeting everyone in my program and around the town. I had the opportunity to travel a lot around Italy, you can do some great day trips from Reggio Emilia as well. 10/10 definitely recommend

Studying abroad in Seoul through the USAC program at Korea University was one of the most exciting experiences of my life. The friendships I built and the incredible places I explored helped shape me into who I am today. One of my favorite memories was attending a baseball game with friends as part of the Korea University activity schedule, where we got to experience the energy and culture of Korean sports firsthand. Traveling across the world with fellow USAC students made the journey even more special, and the connections I made continue to be a meaningful part of my life. Even now, I stay in touch with the amazing friends I met in Korea, cherishing the bond we created during our time there.

Studying in Bilbao truly changed my life. It broadened my horizons to the world around me, I grew so much as a person, I learned so many skills that will help me in my life, and I gained a love for new cultures and places. USAC did such a great job of making study abroad feel accessible and they helped me every step of the way. The program directors were amazing and I just went back to Bilbao this month and saw them and my host family! My host mom became my second mama and I am so grateful for her! Bilbao is a clean beautiful and safe city and i think of it as my second home! I couldn't encourage people enough to go study abroad!

The people, culture, and overall experience were unique, and ultimately, I would recommend studying in Chiang Mai to anyone independent who wants a different path than most, wants an original experience, and is willing to put themselves out of their comfort zone. Everyone is kind, the lifestyle is relaxing, and the perspective you gain from individuals worldwide in Chiang Mai is invaluable.

This program was amazing and I loved every second. I stayed with a host mom and she was patient and kind to help me learn spanish and she made amazing food. Also the safety in Alicante was spectacular because I could walk home really late at night from the bar, club or with my friends and not be concerned something would happen to me. The weather was amazing and I spent a lot of time doing homework on the beach as well as traveling around Europe since Alicante had a huge airport. The teachers were really supportive and loved teaching and made it easy to learn.

This study abroad experience changed my life! If its your first time traveling to Asia or you are contemplating study abroad, choose this program! The staff makes the trip so easy, stress-free, and comfortable. They answered all of my questions and made the visa process so easy to understand. Once you're there, the staff in Thailand are some of the most welcoming, kind-hearted people I have ever met! They made my time in Chiang Mai so special, going out of their way to show us the most popular local food spots, tourist attractions, and shopping areas. I still keep in touch with them two years later! The accommodation was clean, comfortable, and spacious, and safety was a top priority here. I was able to travel every weekend and explore Chiang Mai was feeling completely safe. I would recommend traveling as much as possible to make the most of your experience, not to mention it is so affordable compared to the US and European countries. I would 100% recommend this program to anyone looking for a life-changing study abroad experience.

Pau was a very small, very beautiful town. Because of it's size, it was easy to talk to strangers and better my French. The people were very friendly, and were always willing to talk to me and better my poor French. The city was very walkable and there were several restaurants, and public places to visit. During the summer, there are many outdoor bars you can go to facing the Pyrenees mountains where you can meet other locals. There is also a beautiful river you can visit and swim in. It was also very easy to travel throughout France and in Spain on weekends.

I can't say enough about what my study abroad trip to Torino meant to me. This program just so happened to offer the last class I needed to complete my Bachelors degree, which was unbelievable. The amount of information and resources USAC provides from the start is impressive and very reassuring. The classes were very small but just as advertised, and the ones I was in encouraged lots of student involvement. The living conditions were even nicer than I imagined, and the accommodations that I requested were easily fulfilled. Not only that, but Eliana made sure to personally make sure I was taken care of and had everything that I needed. Eliana and Daniele were the best coordinators/directors we could have asked for. They were helpful, informative, supportive, and dedicated to making sure our experience was the best it could possibly be. The program trips they took us on brought us to incredible and beautiful places, ones that I didn't realize should be on my bucket list. Any traveling we did outside of the program was up to us, but we were provided with lots of recommendations that we took full advantage of. It was a complete coincidence that I was able to finish my degree on a study abroad trip, but the experience was so much more than I imagined. I have made lifelong friends and formed memories I'll look back on fondly forever. If you're thinking of going on a USAC study abroad trip, DO IT!!!

This opportunity gave me many valuable life lessons. For my first time studying abroad and being on an airplane, I really took it to the next level. Yes, it was intimidating but I'm not one to turn away from challenges. I'm so glad that I didn't because I met so many wonderful people, learned Korean culture and language, and got to have life altering experiences through it all. Whenever I share my story I always tell them to "Go and do it! You won't regret it!" I will forever be thankful for all the support I had and the friends I made along the way. The best part of it all is that I am still in contact with the people I met and we plan to see each other here soon!!! South Korea really opened my eyes and helped me see the world through a different lens. So take that leap, face those challenges, and explore the world!!

I absolutely adored my semester on the gold coast. Living in the student apartments was definitely the way to go, I met so many people my age, and they throw LOTS of fun events. There is a tram that takes you so many places around the city, I definitely didn't feel like I needed a car. The night life is so fun. The best part was how easily I made friends and felt like I meshed in with the local students. The friends I made I will stay in touch with for the rest of my life. I went during the end of February, and the weather was hot, but it was the perfect time to go in my opinion because it started to cool down in about April/May. When I was trying to decide where to go in Australia, I did some research but honestly picking the gold coast was a bit of a guess and hope situation. I am so thankful I picked the gold coast, it was the most perfect environment and best time ever.

Study abroad in Verona Italy was the absolute best experience I could have imagined! I grew so much as a person and had the time of my life! I met great people and the USAC staff there was amazing, so nice and so helpful! If I could do it again I would in a heart beat!

Going into studying abroad, I was overwhelmed and unsure if I had made the right decision. I was told by all of my peers that this was going to be the best experience of my life, however, naturally, in the back of my mind, I thought, “What if it’s not?” Throughout this experience, I learned so much about myself, was surrounded by the most supportive and loving group of people, and traveled to places I would have never dreamed of. That summer was such a pivotal moment throughout my college career, and I am forever grateful I was able to experience something as transformative as studying abroad!

I was so nervous to study abroad, especially in Thailand, but it ended up being the best decision I ever made. I made the best friends and had really cool Thai buddies that made the experience amazing! I look back on my experience and miss it so much. I recommend anyone to go study abroad in Thailand, you won’t regret it!

I am really happy that I chose to study abroad in Alicante. The cost of living was very affordable and keeping myself fed was very easy. I lived near the town plaza and the restaurant and entertainment options nearby were incredible. The staff was exceptional and were very helpful no matter what issue you were having. I wish the spanish-only class offerings were a bit more diverse, but overall I had a great experience.

I had the most wonderful time studying abroad in San Sebastián. I was extremely nervous before arriving, but once I got to the city everyone was so kind and welcoming and I knew this place could feel like home. I made so many new friends and experienced so many things I never could have even imagined. My two favorite classes were cooking and surfing. I felt as though I was able to immerse myself into the culture and learn about life in San Sebastián. I also loved my Spanish classes. I learned so much and still use my Spanish speaking skills when I can. The apartment I lived in was amazing! It was directly next to the beach and I was able to walk down every chance I got. I loved walking everywhere and enjoying the beautiful city everywhere I went. I grew so much as a person and I will forever be so grateful for my time abroad. I cannot wait to go back and visit soon!

I have had the best most life changing time in Cork, Ireland. The people I have met and the things I have done would not been possible without USAC’s study abroad program. I have loved every minute of my program and would recommend anyone considering studying abroad should just go for.

No experience can compare to my time studying abroad in Maastricht. I made life-long friends whose paths I would've never crossed without this experience. I learned a lot during our program field trips and immersed myself in new cultures during my free travel time. The USAC staff was invaluable and made us all feel safe and welcomed during our time in the Netherlands. One of my favorite experiences was Maastricht's Carnaval celebrations. I had never known this festival existed before my studies here and it gave me unforgettable memories that made me appreciate the diversity in every culture. I love looking back at memories and can't wait to make another trip back to Maastricht!

I studied in Reggio Emilia in Spring 2024. As a Child Education and Italian Studies double major, this program was extremely relevant to my studies. Besides the academics, the Reggio Emilia community was amazing, I made friends for life during my time abroad. Simona and Elena, the program directors, are super kind and helpful, they really cared about us and made me feel at home. This program was an experience of a lifetime, I traveled solo, as well as with friends, and became more confident in myself and in my capability to be independent! My American friends all lived together in apartments, while I lived with Italian students to strengthen my Italian speaking skills. I am still in touch with everyone I made connections with in Reggio Emilia, and I even have plans to see some of them this year! I highly recommend this program, I miss it everyday!

While not one of the popular schools such as Yonsei or Korea University, Kookmin was the best choice I could have possibly chosen to study at in Korea. I enjoyed the scenic views of Bukhansan Mountain and alongside the busy city life of Seoul. The professors at Kookmin such as Bobby truly care about their students and also made me feel welcome. I made so many great friends – local, international, and American that I will forever cherish my memories with and truly made my four months abroad so meaningful.

I had the best time in Torino. I met so many amazing people and had the best advisors through USAC. Daniele and Eliana supported all the students and showed us the beautiful city and sites nearby. The amount of help you get with the visa process and moving process is so awesome. The whole process is 100 times easier thanks the to program.

My experience was nothing short of amazing. I traveled alone for the first time, but it was well worth. Don't let your fears stop you from doing what you want!! Seoul was beautiful, and I will definitely be back!

Overall, I had a great experience with USAC in the Czech Republic. Everyone involved in the program in Prague were fantastic. They were very helpful in showing us around and helping me get used to the city. It helped me adjust to the living style very quickly. The actual education was enjoyable because I took and art and architecture class and we walked around the city looking at buildings, sculptures, paintings, etc. Then we wrote a paper about it at the end. I would highly recommend travelling with USAC, no matter where you were considering visiting.

I studied abroad in Chiang Mai for 10 weeks in the summer 2024 and I had the time of my life. USAC was an amazing program that made the transition living abroad easy. They provided included weekend trips that allowed us to do all the touristy fun things for no extra cost. The courses were very interesting and the professors were great and flexible. I wish I could go study abroad again!

I loved being able to go to Gwangju last summer! I met so many people from around the world, and have made so many connections with people I never would have been introduced to had I not studied abroad here. I really enjoyed Chonnam's campus, and how it reflects the recent history of the democratic uprising that took place in Gwangju in the 1980s.I like that CNU has a buddy system program built in where students at Chonnam help international students navigate the campus and Korea. I still keep in touch with my CNU buddies :) I am so grateful to my home university in the US, Chonnam University in Gwangju, and USAC for helping me achieve my dream of studying abroad in Korea, making friends from around the world, and experiencing life in another country :)

My time studying abroad was absolutely incredible! Alicante was breathtaking, offering a perfect mix of culture, history, and adventure. But what truly made my experience unforgettable was the amazing staff and professors. They were not only brilliant and knowledgeable but also so incredibly kind, supportive, and genuinely invested in my success. Their passion for teaching and dedication to helping students was evident every day. I felt truly supported throughout my entire journey, and I couldn’t have asked for a better group of people to learn from and work with. One of the highlights of the experience was the many group activities we had. These activities not only brought us closer as a group, but they also allowed us to explore Spain in a deeper way. From day trips to scenic towns to big cities, every moment felt like an opportunity to learn and bond. Luis and Veronica made sure we got the most out of every experience, making it all the more special. It was truly an experience of a lifetime!

New Zealand was a blast. Being put in contract with all of the other students studying abroad at the university I attended was a game changer. We all met within the first week and that allowed us to create a big group of students from all around the world that could hang out and do activities. I made some really good friends in this group and we spent the whole semester abroad going and doing fun activities. New Zealand is not a huge country and I was able to explore a lot of different areas of the country. For spring break 9 of us rented camper vans and toured the whole south island for two weeks; this was definitely the best part of the semester. I visited many beautiful beaches and hiked multiple (small-ish) mountains. I will always miss the new zealand meat pies that were available at every corner store.

My time in Italy was fantastic, from traveling to other countries to trying Turin's local food and entertainment spots. Turin is an excellent city for people who want peace after a crazy weekend in Spain or France. The airport is relatively cheap to travel from and a much better option than Milan. Danielle and Elliana are our outstanding staff members who can help with restaurants and things to do in emergencies. The apartments are ok, but you're not there for the apartment anyway, so get up and explore. Some must-see things in Turin are the film museum at the Mole, the history museum downtown, and the church on the hill you see while exploring the city. People around the town are very friendly, and becoming a regular at a bar or cafe is fantastic. Turin has you covered for my party people, too, with excellent nightlife at Milk and OGR when it's warm. Between exploring Lingotto, hiking around the Alps, or getting a cappuccino at the local cafe, enjoy Turin, a true gem of Italy and all of Europe.

Studying abroad can sound very intimidating and a little bit scary, but if you're even considering it, DO IT!! I definitely had my doubts before choosing to study abroad; how would I afford it, where would I go, would I make friends, how would I navigate a whole new country alone?! But, I chose to do it and it was even better than I imagined! I lived in Reggio Emilia which is a smaller city in Italy and I think that was a great choice for me. It was a spot where not as many tourists went so it felt a little bit like home, as I am from a smaller town. But, I was still close to the bigger cities and I traveled there on the weekends. Studying abroad has changed how my outlook on life. I take time to enjoy life more and live a slower life. I am more focused on taking care of myself and spending time with the people I love rather than letting school and work consume me. Living in Italy was a big change for me because they were much more laid back and more focused on enjoying life and being your family and friends. I physically felt my stress levels decrease when I was there, even though I was still taking classes. I found the time to do schoolwork and go to class and still have plenty of time to hangout with my friends and travel. The experience has made me more confident, open-minded, and appreciative of the little things in life. So, like I said before, if you are thinking about studying abroad, just do it!! You won't regret it!

I studied abroad in Khon Kaen, Thailand, for a semester from February to June 2024 with the USAC program. I chose Khon Kaen because of my deep interest in Thai language, culture, and food, and I was excited to immerse myself in an entirely new environment. Academics: The academic structure in Khon Kaen was a bit different from what I was used to. All my classes were three hours long, held once a week, as opposed to the typical 50-minute classes I’m accustomed to back home. While I didn’t love the longer class durations, I adjusted to it over time. The courses were taught in English, which made it easier to follow along, although it was challenging at times to fully engage with the material, especially since I was balancing a completely new environment and culture. Cultural Experience: Living in Thailand gave me the chance to fully immerse myself in the local culture. I was able to practice some of the Thai language I had learned and enjoyed participating in local traditions and activities. One of the highlights was my USAC program pairing me with a Thai buddy, who helped guide me through the country and introduced me to local spots. I’m deeply grateful for this connection because, as a foreign student, making local friends can be challenging, and I sometimes struggled to connect with others. Accommodation: I stayed in a dorm shared with both Thai and international students. While it was convenient, I didn’t have as much interaction with others as I would have liked. I spent a lot of time in my dorm alone, but my Thai buddy helped alleviate some of the loneliness by inviting me out and showing me around. Social Life & Travel: Exploring Khon Kaen was an exciting experience. On weekends, I would visit the night markets, which offered an array of food, snacks, clothing, accessories, and more. I also frequented local gyms, malls, and restaurants. Thanks to the guidance of the friends I made along the way, navigating these places was relatively smooth. I was able to experience Thai cuisine firsthand and enjoyed tasting a wide variety of dishes. Although I did make a few friends from my classes and other international students, it was tough to find people with similar interests and vibes. That being said, I was lucky to meet some great individuals who made my time in Khon Kaen much more enjoyable. Challenges: Homesickness was something I struggled with at times. When I felt lonely, I found comfort in video calls with my family, which helped me stay connected with home. I also had moments when I felt out of place, especially since my dorm was often quiet and I was alone. However, my Thai buddy’s regular invitations to hang out made a significant difference, and I’m incredibly thankful for those moments of support. Another challenge I encountered was the heat and humidity, particularly from March to June, as this is Thailand’s summer season. The weather was something to adjust to, and it definitely required a lot of hydration and energy to cope with the constant warmth. Also, for anyone with dietary restrictions, it’s important to note that pork is a staple in Thai cuisine, so it’s helpful to do some research on meal options ahead of time. Advice for Future Students: Learn Basic Local Phrases: Familiarizing yourself with basic Thai phrases can make daily interactions much easier and enrich your experience. Embrace Travel: Take every opportunity to travel around Thailand and the surrounding region. It’s one of the best parts of studying abroad, and there’s so much to explore! Be Prepared for the Heat: Thailand can be hot and humid year-round, especially during the summer months (March to June). Make sure to stay hydrated and pack accordingly. Dietary Considerations: If you have dietary restrictions, do some research about the availability of food options and be mindful of the prevalence of pork in Thai cuisine. Conclusion: Overall, my study abroad experience in Khon Kaen was a memorable one. I had the opportunity to travel internationally for the first time, which was both exciting and a little nerve-wracking. The excitement and positive mindset I maintained helped me navigate the challenges that came my way, and I’m grateful for the ups and downs of the journey. I met incredible friends who supported me throughout my experience, and I look back on my time in Thailand with gratitude. I would highly recommend this program to anyone looking to immerse themselves in Thai culture and explore Southeast Asia. P.S. A lot of Thai food is spicy.

This was an experience of a lifetime and USAC did an amazing job with providing me the perfect amount of guidance and freedom to learn about the culture, language, food, etc. I enjoyed being able to compare and contrast Cuba and Uruguay and think this program is once and a lifetime. I learned so much about myself and gained a whole new perspective on life. Definitely recommend this trip to anyone who wants to experience the vastness of Latin American culture.

"When I embarked on my study abroad program in San Ramon Costa Rica, little did I know that it would be one of the most meaningful and significant experiences in my life. The plane landed and I had entered my journey of studying abroad! I spent four months immersed in Costa Rica's rich culture and breathtaking natural wonders. Learning Spanish was a goal that I was eager to work towards while abroad. My language skills improved tremendously and I learned to speak more of the language each day. I built irreplaceable connections with my host family, professors, and met some of my best friends. I felt at ease knowing I had the support of my program while abroad. When faced with unfamiliar situations, I embraced new experiences and found ways to adapt. I think about my time in Costa Rica every day and I feel so grateful to have experienced a completely different way of life. I have gained a powerful new perspective, and I have more faith in myself and my abilities. I highly recommend studying abroad with USAC to anyone who might be curious about the opportunity." - Sienna Gordon

I studied abroad in South Korea at Yonsei University and it changed my life! I met new people, made life-long friends, and ate the most delicious food you can imagine! The campus is absolutely beautiful and the cafeterias are cheap but michelin star worthy! I was worried at first because I didn't speak Korean, but I was able to adapt easily thanks to how foreigner-friendly South Korea is! For anyone considering studying abroad, I 10000% recommend it because you'll experience a new side of life that will become the best memories you will never forget! Travel the world and meet new people! And South Korea is the best place to start!

Studying abroad in Torino Italy was truly the best experience ever!! The program staff and professors were incredibly kind, supportive, and fun. The people I met in the program became some of my best friends and I cherish the memories I made. Torino was a beautiful, wonderful city, with great public transportation, food, people, and rich culture. I always felt safe and empowered in my travels and in the program. The day trips were amazing and I could easily travel on weekends. I could go on and on about how much I loved this program, I would do it again if I could!

Overall, this was an experience I'll never forget. Not only did I have the time of my life doing so many unique and fun things, but the program was overall setup really well and was administered appropriately. There were so many activities lead that I enjoyed participating in and generally was really easy to make so many things work alongside of my schooling schedule. Classes were good, but long, but they were all enjoyable and unique. Studying with other students in a new place can present its challenges but everything was handled very well and everyone seemed to have a great time! I loved this location specifically because it was easy to get around and explore other areas, but I also loved Torino because of its amazing history and vast amount of things to do in the city.

Studying Spanish abroad in Alicante was an incredible experience. My host family was incredibly welcoming and the program staff were very helpful. The program incorporates some trips and activities including a historic trip around Alicante and a trip to Valencia. As for the classes, I felt like they actually helped me learn a lot of Spanish, even though I was only there for a month. You take the tram to class every day, which is easy once you do it the first couple of times. I was in 2 classes because I was trying to fulfill requirements for my Spanish minor at my home college, and my classes went from 9:30am-1:45pm. A lot of people were only in 1 class, though (that would be more conducive for exploring). I do want to note that some people in the area speak Valencian, and there are also some street signs, etc. in Valencian. I didn't do my research on that, so I was confused. However, if you know some Spanish, you can usually understand. As for Alicante itself, I enjoyed the beaches (specifically La Playa de San Juan), Castillo e Santa Barbara, Mercado Central (tons of fresh food), the shopping center (Zara, Mango, Bershka), Passeig Esplanada d'Espanya (lots of shopping from local vendors), and El Barrio Santa Cruz (aka Casco-Antiguo Santa-Cruz). If you go in the summer, you also get the chance to attend Festival de Hogueras, which is very cool. I was there for the tail-end of it and I highly recommend trying to go during that time. I can't comment on the nightlife in Alicante, because I didn't really participate. I traveled to Calpe with some friends to go to Los Baños de la Reina. This was the most beautiful part of my trip! You can get to Calpe and other nearby towns on the tram. I found the cuisine in the area to be okay -- my host family's meals were the best thing I had while in Alicante! There's not as much to do in Alicante as there may be in other cities. I was only there for a month and it was great, but I could see myself growing tired of the area after some time. Many people in my program, including myself, chose to travel during our study abroad program in Alicante. Flights from Alicante to several places in Europe are quite cheap. I traveled to Italy and Mallorca, España and my plane tickets for both were less than $100. Others in my group went to Ibiza, Paris, and London. A lot of people travel to Morocco because it's such a short trip from Alicante. There's also a train in central Alicante that goes at least as far as Valencia. But just a heads up, you only really have time to do a weekend trip due to classes (this is true for the 1 month summer program at least). I felt quite safe as a woman when I was in Alicante. I often walked around solo, even at night. I was catcalled on one occasion, but I truly never felt threatened in the city -- and that's coming from a very cautious person. I felt much more unsafe during my weekend trip to Italy. My favorite part of the entire experience was my host family. Several people in my program chose to live in apartments instead of with a family. Although it has it's pros (e.g., you're roommates with other students in the program), living with a host family taught me about the culture, improved my Spanish, and made me feel at home. My host mom packed me snacks for school every day and took me to family events. One con to it was that I felt a little bit isolated from the majority of students living in apartments. Also, my host family's home was not right in the center of the city, as other accommodations were. That meant I had to walk a little further, but it was only a 10-15 minute walk from the center. However, I would make the same decision if I did it all over again. I highly recommend USAC's Alicante program!! I have been dying to go back ever since I left!

I loved studying abroad in Lüneburg. The town was small enough where I feel like I really got the chance to practice my German with locals, and they would not switch to English. The program had frequent events, and I felt very connected to everyone in my groups and classes. The classes were challenging, but rewarding. My German skills and cultural knowledge grew exponentially, and I had a great time traveling throughout Germany and beyond!

My time studying abroad in Korea was easily the best time of my life! There is just so much to do in Korea. They have amazing food, cute cafes, great nightlife and so much more. I have done so much while I was there like go to Gyeongbok Palace and wear hanbok, join the Yonsei dance crew and take the KTX train to Gangneung. I have made so many lifelong friendships throughout my time in Korea as well. I love and miss it so much. I could not recommend studying abroad in Korea enough.

I had a great and humbling experience living in Italy for 5 months. I gained lifelong friends and a different perspective on life. The only negative aspect was not getting more informed about the rent situation. A lack of information was provided for everyone in my program which led to a negative financial position. Overall, I did not let that stop me from having a positive experience traveling the world, meeting new people, and having incredible food.

Studying abroad in Verona, Italy for a semester was the best decision I ever made. This experience taught me how to embrace independence, adaptability, and self-confidence. It was an opportunity to step outside my comfort zone and experience life in a new way. I discovered new foods, languages, and customs that can inspire my own personal growth. I was able to travel to 13 new countries during my time abroad and I made so many lifelong friendships. I was nervous to go abroad, but I am so glad that I did because it helped me reveal strengths I didn't know I had. I now feel more self-assured and excited about the opportunities that lie ahead in my future.

My study abroad was an experience I have thought about every single day since I left. I was in the Gold Coast of Australia and it was amazing. Everything about it fit my lifestyle so well; outdoors, activity, beach, fitness, city, and much more! I was able to travel more than I could have ever imagined and experience cultures and lifestyles that have opened my eyes to really appreciate the little things. I was able to grow as an independent individual while also making life long friends. If you are scared to go alone, just do it! I went alone and can easily say it was the best decision I could’ve made for myself!!

I truly find it hard to put into words the experience I had abroad. I feel like I am a whole new person! I traveled to Ireland knowing no one, and left with lifelong friends. My semester abroad gave me new life skills and memories I will cherish forever. Studying in another country allowed me to learn new things about myself. I learned that I am capable of meeting new people and navigating new places! I immersed myself in a new culture and adapted to it. I gained a newfound confidence, and I wouldn't have found that without stepping outside of my comfort zone and going abroad. I am so thankful for my semester in Ireland and all the blessings that came with it!

My semester studying abroad in Lisbon was an incredible experience that I'll never forget. Lisbon is such a beautiful city, with its historic architecture, colorful tiles, and stunning views from its many hilltops. One of the best parts was how affordable everything was compared to other European capitals, from meals out to transportation. While my accommodation was about 30 minutes by train from downtown and 20 minutes from campus, which wasn't ideal, the apartment itself was very nice and comfortable. Despite the commute, I was able to make the most of my time exploring the city and getting to know the local area. One of the highlights of my experience was taking classes alongside European students. It gave me a unique perspective and helped me form friendships with people from different countries and backgrounds. The cultural exchange in the classroom added so much depth to my learning experience. Overall, I highly recommend studying abroad in Lisbon. Between the city's charm, affordability, and the opportunity to study with international students, it was an enriching experience that helped me grow both academically and personally.

I was always interested in studying abroad and the life-changing experiences it would offer but wow, truly one of the most transformative experiences. Before my departure, I was hoping to immerse myself in a new culture, eat amazing pizza, and connect with people across the country but my time abroad brought me so much more. Going abroad, I learned how to navigate daily tasks and transportation, live in a foreign country, self-advocate, embrace the discomfort, and appreciate all the things I had waiting for me back home. Was it all easy and a breeze? No. It was hard to acclimate and learn the norms; however, I am so grateful for all of it because it has changed who I am today. Getting to travel and see a whole new world gave me a deeper appreciation for different cultures and the norms that come along with them. My time was full of laughs, amazement, and an eagerness to see more! The slight discomfort for a wide range of new skills and experiences is not even a question. Your time abroad can not be fit into a college course, they are valuable lived experiences that set you apart. Go abroad, go do it!

I truly enjoyed this unique opportunity and will take this experience with me for the rest of my life. This trip greatly improved my Spanish skills through both in-class and out-of-class immersion. The staff made the paperwork easy and understandable with quick responses every time.

My experience studying in Galway with USAC was seriously incredible. Everything was very organized, and the USAC staff are extremely helpful. I would recommend studying abroad to anybody, it’s a life changing experience.

I 1000% would recommend this program to anyone who asks me about it. I studied abroad through USAC in Lyon in the summer of 2023 and had the most remarkable time of my life. I am an athlete so going abroad during a fall or winter semester wasn't an option for me. Despite this, I have always always wanted to study abroad and USAC gave me the most perfect opportunity. I met so many remarkable people (the majority of whom I am still great friends with!!) and experienced so many new things. While I was in France I was able to study under amazing professors who enhanced by knowledge of the French language but what I valued most were the cultural experiences. Having dinner with my classmates in Old Lyon, eating bread and drinking wine on the banks of the river, and the traveling I was able to do are some of my favourite memories of France. Lyon is one of the most beautiful places I have ever been and I am so lucky to have had this opportunity. I was 19 years old at the time and I'm female but I felt so safe the entire time and enjoyed every second of my experience.

The USAC Prague study abroad program could not have been a better way to spend my summer! The classes I took were all very interesting and hands on. Being able to walk around the city and go on field trips to see firsthand what were learning about truly immerses you in the classroom experience while also understanding the culture of the city. Jan and Dasa were the BEST program directors and truly made it feel like a family. I would recommend this program to anyone and everyone!

Leaving for my study abroad experience was my first time leaving the United States in general. Understandably I was excited, but also a bit scared. When I first arrived I was tired, homesick, and just overall nervous. However, once I met up with our program directors these feelings were instantly relieved. Instead I was now beside myself with excitement for what each day had to offer. This program supported me and helped me feel safe in my new home, while also allowing me to go out and explore not just Italy, but the world. As someone who is more reserved I was worried I wouldn't live life to the fullest while studying abroad, but it was thanks to the support of the staff and friends I made along the way that I was able to branch out and learn more about who I am. The professors I had were exceptional. The amount I learned in that one semester surpassed any other semester before it. The first hand knowledge of my professors and the first hand experiences they granted me gave me a new passion for my degree. Along with the academics, I found confidence to not only travel to new countries, but to do it on my own, which led me to visit 4 other countries, some with friends and some without. Additionally, because of Viterbo's proximity to Rome, Rome became like a second home to me. The day trips we took to explore less traveled streets gave me a more in depth experience of urban livng in Italy. Study abroad is something I miss every day, and I am already planning a return trip to visit the places I came to love.