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WorldStrides

4.68 (1,305)VerifiedSince 198778 Programs

Why choose WorldStrides?

As a leader in international education since 1987, ISA by WorldStrides is committed to providing university-level students with the opportunity to discover, learn, and enjoy a way of life other than their own. We offer a diverse portfolio of study abroad programs across Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America, and the Pacific. We continuously seek to provide high-quality experiences for university students at an affordable price. Each year, thousands of students participate in our programs, including custom programs, service-learning and internships, Gap year programs, Veritas Christian Study Abroad, and EuroScholars undergraduate research. We distinguish ourselves by maintaining our dedication to each student and our comprehensive on-site support offered through resident staff in nearly 75 program locations across the globe.

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WorldStrides Reviews

Hear what past participants have to say about the programs

Overall Rating

4.68

Total Reviews

1,305
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Best decision of my life!

August 13, 2026by: Maggie Brennan - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Lille, France with WorldStrides

5

Deciding to study abroad in Lille with WorldStrides was the best decision of my life. The trip to Paris before going to Lille was amazing. The accommodations were nice and the classes were even better. I met the most amazing people who I'm still friends with, I had amazing food, trips and adventures. I would do it all over again and pick WorldStrides for another study abroad too!

A Life Changing Experience!!

August 13, 2026by: Katie Gibson - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Lima, Peru with WorldStrides

5

I recently studied abroad for 5 weeks in Lima, Peru with WorldStrides. This experience genuinely changed my life, and the staff and accommodations provided to us by WorldStrides were a huge part of this. The on-site team was extremely supportive, and the additional trips planned by staff made my experience 10x better. I highly recommend using WorldStrides if you are considering studying abroad anywhere!

Changed my life forever!

August 13, 2026by: Colleen O'Meara - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Barcelona, Spain with WorldStrides

5

I studied abroad with Worldstrides in Barcelona during the spring semester of 2026, and it was genuinely life-changing! I was able to connect with professors at my university and my peers and create lifelong friendships. It was easy to make meaningful connections because the academic curriculum revolves around group work. I was able to work with students from all around the world and grow my international interpersonal skills. I can not recommend going with WorldStrides enough! They eased any potential worries I had before and during my time abroad. The team is there to help you and make your experience incredible!

The best semester

August 13, 2026by: Paige Harris - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Florence, Italy with WorldStrides

5

I absolutely loved my time in Florence with World Strides! I had never been out of the country and didn't know anyone else going, so I was terrified, but the experience was amazing. World strides was really easy to work with and offered a lot of free activities in Florence, such as a cooking class and a weekend trip to Lake Garda. The staff were all really kind and welcoming, and I made very good friends in the program. I could not recommend this program enough!

I loved my time abroad!

August 12, 2026by: liv acree - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Chile with WorldStrides

5

Going abroad was such an amazing experience that I definitely reccomend to everyone! This program in Chile was so immersive and very supportive throughout my time. Worldstrides planned great excursions for us that made it very fun with always something to look forward to!

Life Changing Experience!

August 07, 2026by: Jade Willing - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Malaga, Spain with WorldStrides

4

I had the wonderful opportunity to study abroad in Malaga for the month of June, and I would recommend it to anyone considering it. There are a multitude of reasons why studying abroad is beneficial, but it is important to figure out why it's best for you. For me, being abroad gave me the time to learn new skills of independence and learn more about myself. It taught me how to be self-sufficient and to really grow into who I am. Additionally, Malaga was the most amazing city. It was relatively close to many other popular travel destinations (Sevilla, Granada, Nerja) and very accessible to other destinations via public transportation (for example, I went to Madrid on the train). There were endless options of amazing things to do, whether that be shop, go to the beach (there are SEVERAL nearby), hike, go to museums, etc. I also really enjoyed improving and practicing my Spanish. I came in with an already high base level of knowledge, but I got to improve my skills significantly. The best part of the trip was the amazing excursions we got to go on. Our resident director was amazing and all of the excursions were planned out perfectly with adequate time for us to do some exploring on our own as well. 10/10 would recommend!

I <3 Malaga!

Lifechanging experience!

July 31, 2026by: Sakinah Ahmed - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

5

Before embarking on my trip, I was super nervous because it was my first time traveling outside the country on my own. As soon as I landed, I immediately felt at home and ready to explore Seville. I was amazed at how beautiful the plaza de España was and overjoyed that it was a part of my daily commute. From the moment I met all my peers, I knew we would become great friends! I also had an amazing time getting to know the Seville staff as they welcomed us all. The excursions were perfectly planned, but they gave us time to explore cities on our own. I also felt that the academics were easy to manage, but challenging nonetheless. Overall, I was so sad to leave the city behind and the beautiful architecture. I enjoyed sketching the beautiful sights in my free time and trying new cafes!

Plaza de España at sunsetWalking through the plaza during my first week

The best experience in Madrid, Spain!

July 21, 2026by: Kate Heller - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Madrid, Spain with WorldStrides

5

I am so happy that I chose WorldStrides for my study abroad experience in Madrid, Spain. Going into the semester, I was worried about adjusting to a new country, a new school, and new people. The second I met the WorldStrides team at the airport, I immediately felt welcomed and safe with them. Throughout the entire semester, they went out of their way to support us and were there every step of the way. I lived in an apartment with five other girls, and they ended up becoming my best friends. Despite being in a completely new environment, I adjusted quickly because of the amazing support system I had. Madrid was the loveliest city, and I fell in love with it. I'm so glad I took this big leap because it ended up being the best and most formative experience of my life!

WorldStrides trip to Granada!Our last night :(A wish wall in Madrid!

The BEST experience!!

July 18, 2026by: Loralei Nussey - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Paris, France with WorldStrides

5

I recently just returned from Paris where I spent the best 4 months of my life all thanks to WorldStrides!! I met so many amazing people, learned so much about the business world, and was able to travel all around the world!!

Sahara desert!Versailles!Eiffel Tower!

Go to Prague! dont regret not studying abroad and missing your chance

April 03, 2026by: Sophia Fritz - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Prague, Czech Republic with WorldStrides

5

I studied abroad in Prague, Czech republic, with ISA in Fall, 2025. I had an amazing time in Prague, the program and its staff were amazing and went above and beyond to give us a good experience in their country. ISA provided us with amazing housing, an apartment close to the city center, and free transportation passes so that we could go all around the city for free! We were also provided with any resources we could need, medical, academic, etc. I felt very comfortable with the staff and could tell that they wanted very much for everyone to just have the best time possible. In addition to the facilities we were provided, we had the opportunity to explore other parts of the continent, with hotels, food, tours and most fun of all getting to be with the rest of the program members and friends. The trips, both day and overnight were so fun and completely paid for. I would reccomend going in your program provides these events. My favorite places events that ISA created were, Vienna, Thanksgiving Dinner, Cesky Krumlov and Berlin :) I also had a great school Anglo american university; this school was very warm and welcoming, with small classes and lots of club events and even a garden full of peacocks in the back of the school it was very easy to make friends, even more so than my time at my home university. I am forever grateful to all of the ISA's staff; Daniela, Lucie, Yachim, and Tomas were so kind and helpful, I felt like they werent just staff but friends too. Im so happy that I got to experince this study abroad in Prague, and will forever miss the city, experiences and all of the friends i made there. I highly reccomend this program to everyone, and think that they should take full atvantage of what is offered, make as many friends as possible, make time both to travel and to appreciate the country they are in, and Cafe 80's, Cafe Alchimista, U sudu, U fleku, and eat beef goulash. This experience, made me grow and I came back happier, more confident and more open to the world and people around me :)

Best 4 months of my life

February 17, 2026by: Tyler Owen - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Florence, Italy with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad truly was a life-altering experience. Worldstrides made it easy to understand the process and they were very helpful in answering any questions and providing assistance pre-departure, during, and have even been in touch after. I've made friends I will hold on to all my life and made so many special memories. I feel so much more open to change now and I am sure this will stick with me for the better!

Going abroad changed my life!

February 12, 2026by: Maria Atassi - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad in Sevilla, Spain was one of the most impactful experiences of my life. I arrived feeling anxious and homesick, not sure how I would adjust to living so far from home. Stepping outside my comfort zone was intimidating at first, but quickly became one of the most valuable parts of the experience. Sevilla pushed me to grow. Navigating a new city, strengthening my Spanish, and adapting to a different pace of life forced me to become more independent and confident. I found community everywhere I went and comfort in my own independence. Beyond the personal growth, I gained a deep appreciation for Spanish culture, from daily life to traditions and community values. The friendships I formed with locals and the perspective I developed reshaped who I was and continue to be. I left Sevilla with the best memories, confidence, and an understanding of how important it is to do things out of my comfort zone. If you are nervous about studying abroad, so was I, but it is so beyond worth it!

Classic Spanish "Feria" dress!!Lisbon, Portugal.
Met the best people, had the best drinks, and saw the most beautiful sights!

A Semester in Seoul

January 14, 2026by: Melissa Puente-Garcia - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Seoul, South Korea with WorldStrides

4

Studying abroad in South Korea was a wonderful experience. Korea is home to some of the most beautiful places I have ever seen, and I was able to experience them thanks to the excursions organized by the WorldStrides team. I loved the cafe culture, the ease and accessibility of transportation, the 24/7 convenience stores, and how safe it felt to walk the streets even at night. The food was amazing, my favorite dish was probably Galbitang with rice and a generous serving of kimchi. It is especially comforting and delicious during the winter. I studied at Sogang University and had a very pleasant experience. The campus is spacious, surrounded by many restaurants, and located in an area with numerous and convenient transportation options.

Trip to BusanGalbitangWearing a Hanbok at Gyeongbokgung Palace

research worldstrides and read BBB before booking

January 09, 2026by: julie s - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

2

honestly you can just book the program for cheaper worldstrides is a middleman for the tours and theyre very rushed i cant discredit the uni but you dont need worldstrides theyre a bunch of rats and thieves managing the finances I am not just saying that if you're pell grant student and need a refund check every semester this company will try to take it all read the Worldstrides/TEAN reviews on Better Business Bureau that gives you a better picture of the company you're dealing with: go to MUIC but dont go with a worldstrides program, ever. "$5 Million Settlement Reached Against WorldStrides, Inc. by Cunningham Bounds and Laird, Baker & Blackstock Law Firms in Student Death Case" Good thing to read before spending money with worldstrides too :)

Best Time Ever!

October 30, 2025by: Sydney Meigs - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Florence, Italy with WorldStrides

5

I studied abroad this summer in Florence with WorldStrides and it was truly an amazing experience. I was able to immerse myself in a new culture, grow in unforeseen ways, make new friends and so many memories that I will forever cherish.

Truly Life Changing!

October 07, 2025by: Alexa Sangalis - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Athens, Greece with WorldStrides

5

I know everybody says that studying abroad changed their life, and now I understand why. While I was in Athens, I was so taken out of my regular routine that I was able to reflect on the ways I was living my life. Now, back in the US, I'm so much more intentional with how I spend my time. The perspective gained from living in Athens is worth every risk I took studying abroad there. There's so much to do and explore that I never felt bored or tied down to a certain routine, which was an amazing way for me to get out of my comfort zone. Transportation was really cheap and easy to understand (after a few weeks of practice), which made traveling in Greece and to other countries very convenient. The professors at the American College of Greece were extremely kind and welcoming to study abroad students, and they were eager to answer any questions I had. The grading scale is a little wonky in Greece - your entire class grade is mostly made up of your final and midterm tests. The Greek students were pretty laid-back in my experience and asked questions less frequently than we do here. The WorldStrides excursions were one of my favorite parts of studying abroad in Greece. They were all included in the program and all amazing! We visited Hydra, Meteora, and many other fascinating parts of Greece that I wouldn't have known to explore without WorldStrides. Long story short, go to Athens!

Study Abroad in Berlin!

September 29, 2025by: Colby Parker - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Berlin, Germany with WorldStrides

4

During my time in Berlin, I lived my best life. Getting dropped off in a foreign country no knowing a single person is very scary. But then I left knowing about 200 different people through random interactions and putting myself out there in local community. Being on your own and having to figure out most things by yourself, really builds you as a person. Through living on my own with not much support and traveling to other countries alone, I was really able to discover who I was. Studying abroad is much more then just going to a different university in a different location. You learn so much about other cultures, people, ways of life, and yourself. I 1000% recommend going abroad, it changed my life!

Alexanderplatz at night

Incredible First Time Abroad!

September 27, 2025by: Camila Lopez - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Malaga, Spain with WorldStrides

5

As a first-gen student studying abroad for the first time, I was incredibly nervous entering the program in Málaga, Spain. After I arrived in the airport, however, I was instantly greeted with such a warm welcome by incredible staff and amazing group of peers!! Our first week there, the program helped us get settled into our new housing, become acclimated with the community, and ensured we got to see such incredible sites such as the Alcazaba! Truly the program opened me up to have such amazing experiences that I've never would have had from meeting lifelong friends at the homestay to getting to experience the rich foods on the coast. Worldstrides does an amazing job of really providing a home away from home when you are getting out of your comfort zone and exploring a whole new world!

Going abroad will be the most fulfilling and life-changing experience!

September 24, 2025by: Sophia Hall - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Salamanca, Spain with WorldStrides

4

Studying abroad was one of the best and most impactful experiences of my life. I learned so much about myself and what I want out of my life. Salamanca was the perfect fit for me, not too large, but always had something going on. The on-site WorldStrides directors in Salamanca were so helpful, kind, and always available for anything that we needed. Universidad de Salamanca placed me at the right level for me to understand, but also get the most out of my time there. They were very accommodating to everyone's needs, and the professors were amazing. Out of my five professors during my time there, only one of them was bad. I loved Marta, she's the sweetest! During their summer sessions, we had class Monday through Friday from 9am until 1 or 2pm. You get 3 free skip days each month-long session, and if you miss more, then you fail. I used my days each month for extending weekend travel, which I highly recommend. WorldStrides figures everything out for you with the university and helps you with any issues you may have. They pick you up from the airport in Madrid. You get to stay 3 nights in a fancy hotel while exploring Madrid with organized tours, informational meetings to prepare you for Salamanca, and getting to know your group during free time. While in Salamanca, WorldStrides had many activities for us, such as tours, cooking classes, dancing classes, and boats. Another amazing experience was the trip to Santander, which was completely included. I stayed in a Residencia, which I would recommend over a homestay. It is similar to a US college dorm, and I loved having my own space and not living with the uncertainty of a family, which some of my group members had some difficulties with. But do what feels right for you! Before I went abroad, I was worried about meeting people, but I made so many friends. There are so many opportunities in your group, classes, Residencia, around town, and in your travels. Another thing is that I traveled so much in my 2.5 months. I got to go to Italy, Portugal, Greece, and Croatia, as well as many weekend trips around Spain. I absolutely adored the north of Spain! This experience is what you make of it, and you will get out what you put into it. I did find myself in an English bubble, and sometimes I wish that I had spoken more Spanish. But I love all the English-speaking friends I made from all over the world. Thank you, WorldStrides! And to you reading this, go have the time of your life abroad :)

Weekend trip to Santander!Picnic along the river for friend's birthday!Salamanca's cathedral during our tour!

Amazing Experience in Valencia, Spain

September 22, 2025by: Olivia Schweinhagen - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Valencia, Spain with WorldStrides

5

I had the most amazing time with Worldstrides in Valencia, Spain. Through my program, I took two classes at the University of Valencia, "Spanish Cinema" and "Spanish History and Culture." In these daily classes, I spent valuable time with the people in my program and learned so much about the history and culture of Spain. My time spent with my host family was equally enriching, if a bit intimidating. When I first arrived in Valencia and met my host mom, I realized she spoke absolutely no English. I certainly wasn't fluent, and I was terrified at the idea of having to communicate entirely in Spanish with her. By the end of my trip, though, my Spanish language skills had increased tenfold, and I was having daily conversations with my host family about their lives and interests, as well as what it was like to live in Spain. I made connections with my host family and my classmates that will last a lifetime, and I owe much of this to the Worldstrides program and team. The on-site staff made us feel comfortable being in such a new environment, and they always had advice and recommendations to help us feel more at ease. I would recommend this program to anyone wanting to improve their language skills and get to know a different culture and country.

Summer in Salamanca

September 22, 2025by: Claire Albertson - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Salamanca, Spain with WorldStrides

5

I had the best time spending the month of July in Salamanca, Spain! I never felt alone because there were many other students in the area, along with a very accessible and supportive Worldstrides team. Not to mention the support from my amazing host family that was willing to help me in any way they could. My classes were at a great level that left me feeling challenged but not overwhelmed. There was never a moment that I felt bored during the program because of the vibrant nightlife, exciting excursions, and constant opportunities to meet new people. I would recommend studying in Salamanca to anyone who wants to be encapsulated by a culturally rich and historic environment with a blend of youthful energy.

Enjoying Salamanca with new friends!Exploring the cathedral!Learning to make paella!

ISA Valencia 2025!

September 19, 2025by: Avery Alvarado - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Valencia, Spain with WorldStrides

5

This program was absolutely amazing! From the very beginning, I felt welcomed and supported by both the ISA and UCV staff, who were incredibly kind and helpful throughout. I made lifelong friends that I now get to see at my home university, and I formed a deep, lasting bond with my host mom that I’ll always cherish. Although I was super homesick at first, this experience turned out to be the best decision I’ve ever made. I grew so much personally and academically, and gained a new perspective on the world. I highly encourage everyone to study abroad if they have the chance—it’s truly life-changing and unforgettable!

My Peru Experience🩺🇵🇪

September 19, 2025by: Alyssa Macey - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Lima, Peru with WorldStrides

5

I spent five unforgettable weeks in Peru through the WorldStrides Community Health & Medical Spanish program at the Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia. While living and studying in the Miraflores District this summer, I balanced classes with bonding with my host family and participating in social excursions. Academically, I learned so much. From the simulation labs with other UPCH students to the community clinical experiences at the Piedra Liza Health Center, the exposure to the Peruvian healthcare system was invaluable. Outside of the classroom, I made the most of my time in Peru. Notably, I tried various Peruvian dishes (with lomo saltado quickly becoming a favorite), took a cooking class, hiked Machu Picchu, cheered at a fútbol game, relaxed on a weekend trip to Máncora Beach with friends, rode horses, admired art and history in museums, and sand-boarded at the Huacachina desert oasis. This program challenged me to practice my Spanish daily, immersed me in a new culture, deepened my passion for nursing, expanded my professional network, and broadened my global perspective. I'm beyond grateful for this opportunity, and I will carry the friendships and memories I created during this study abroad experience with me forever.

Worth it!

September 17, 2025by: Josephine Thomson - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Perth, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Tropical Marine Biology at Murdoch was a great short-term program. I didn't want to commit to a full semester abroad, so just one month in Australia was perfect! The teaching staff at Murdoch was exceptional, and the 10-day field camp up in Coral Bay was worth the whole trip. It was winter in Australia, so be cautious that you will be in Perth during their rainy season!

Sunrise snorkel!

An Unforgettable Experience

September 14, 2025by: Bechorah Aguoru - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Granada, Spain with WorldStrides

4

My semester in Granada was an experience that I will never forget. The program itself was thoughtfully designed and well-organized. The planned excursions were engaging and and gave me the chance to explore Granada and integrate myself with the city. From walking through the Alhambra to discovering smaller neighborhoods and local markets, I was constantly in awe of the architecture and the history that shrouds every inch of the city. The people also made the experience even better. The ISA Granada staff: Marisa, Lorena, and Ángel were so warm, welcoming, and genuinely passionate about the city. Their energy was infectious and they created a supportive environment that made it that much easier to adjust to living in Granada. I also formed lasting friendships with both American and international peers while living in Granada. We supported each other, learned together, and shared so many memorable experiences. Overall, my semester in Granada was a life-changing experience. I left not only with stronger Spanish skills, but also with unforgettable memories, meaningful friendships, and a deep appreciation for the history, culture, and people of the city. I would recommend ISA Abroad in Granada to anyone looking for cultural immersion in a gem of a city.

Best time in Granada

September 14, 2025by: Denis Zotaj - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Granada, Spain with WorldStrides

5

From the moment I arrived at ISA Granada, the program’s academics and immersive cultural events made every day an adventure. The Spanish courses at the Universidad de Granada were great, and all programming outside of class was guided by the dedicated team of Lorena Herrera, Ángel Garzón Peña, and Marisa, whose support and local insights unlocked hidden corners of the city. Beyond the classroom, I explored Granada’s Moorish monuments, witnessed passionate flamenco performances in the Albacin with the group, and had a lot of fun at the excursions to Toledo’s medieval streets, Madrid’s art hubs, the Alpujarra’s mountain villages, Almuñécar’s beaches, and had the most amazing spring break in Morocco. Also, the food was terrific and had great spots around every corner. All architecture and every meal celebrated Granada’s rich tapestry of Moorish, Jewish, and Christian influences, from fragrant tagines and almond-based sweets to stews, tapas, and fresh seafood. Living with my host family felt like I was at home in Spain. Their warm hospitality, home-cooked feasts, and late-night conversations turned moments of uncertainty into stories of laughter and resilience. ISA Granada didn’t just improve my Spanish; it showed me how to embrace the unfamiliar, listen deeply across cultures, and forge connections that transcend borders. I returned home more culturally aware and inspired to channel my problem-solving and adaptability skills into my career.

I had so much fun!

September 10, 2025by: Sofia Smith - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Valencia, Spain with WorldStrides

5

Staying with a host family in Valencia was one of the most immersive and rewarding experiences I have ever had. From the very first day, I felt welcomed into their home not just as a guest, but as part of the family. This made all the difference in how I experienced Spanish culture—rather than observing it from the outside, I was able to live it day by day. The warmth of my host family, their traditions, and even the small details of daily life opened my eyes to a new way of connecting with people and a culture that was both familiar in some ways and completely new in others. One of the greatest advantages of living with a host family was the language immersion. While I had studied Spanish before, nothing compares to the challenge and reward of speaking it constantly in real-life situations. From breakfast conversations at the kitchen table to late-night chats about Spanish customs, I found myself improving not just in vocabulary, but also in confidence. My host family was patient and encouraging, helping me navigate moments when I stumbled over words and celebrating my progress when I managed to express myself more naturally. This daily practice gave me a comfort with the language that I don’t think I could have achieved in a classroom alone. Weekends in Valencia brought another layer of adventure. The city itself is vibrant and full of history, but I also took advantage of the opportunity to explore beyond its borders. Solo travel became an unexpected highlight of my time in Spain. At first, the thought of traveling alone felt a little intimidating, but it quickly became one of the most empowering parts of the experience. I learned how to navigate new cities, plan my own itineraries, and rely on myself in unfamiliar situations. Whether it was wandering the narrow streets of Seville, marveling at the architecture in Barcelona, or tasting regional specialties in smaller towns, each trip gave me a deeper appreciation for the diversity of Spain’s culture and landscapes. Living in Valencia also gave me the chance to connect with local traditions on a personal level. Festivals, food, and family routines all became part of my daily rhythm. I discovered how meals are more than just eating—they’re about connection, sharing stories, and taking time to be together. I joined in on local celebrations, experienced the lively energy of Spanish music and dance, and even learned the subtle cultural gestures that make conversations feel authentic. These moments helped me see Spain not just as a place to visit, but as a culture to belong to, even if only temporarily. Looking back, I can honestly say this experience was a 10/10. It combined the joy of travel with the depth of cultural immersion, while also teaching me about independence, adaptability, and the value of human connection. I would absolutely do it again—and in fact, I can’t wait for the opportunity to return. Staying with a host family in Valencia didn’t just give me memories; it gave me a new perspective on travel, language, and community.

Best Decision Ever

September 06, 2025by: Shae Voigts

Program: Study Abroad at Korea University with WorldStrides

5

Traveling to South Korea with TEAN was an unforgettable experience. I never imagined myself studying abroad, but I’m so grateful that I took the leap. I made lifelong friends and had the chance to explore so many incredible places—both on my own and through the program’s activities. Before going, I was nervous about stepping into something so new and unfamiliar, but everything turned out better than I could have hoped. Even now, the friends I met still talk about how much we miss South Korea. The trip truly shaped my life in ways I’ll carry with me forever, and I can’t wait for the day I get to go back.

Summer in Valencia

September 03, 2025by: Kayla Link - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Valencia, Spain with WorldStrides

5

The summer that I spent in Valencia was one of the most rewarding summers that I have ever had. Not only did it allow me to finish my Spanish minor; which I would not have been able to do at my home university. But Valencia also allowed me to grow as a person and become more confident with who I am. I made lifelong friends that I know I will always have a special bond with and got to experience another culture first hand. I think that world strides does an amazing job at providing the right amount of activities so that you can experience Spain but you still have time to yourself to choose what you want to do. I also always felt supported and safe knowing that there was amazing staff that would always be able to help me.

Korea University (Seoul, Korea) Semester Abroad

August 28, 2025by: Brittany Pomierski - United States

Program: Study Abroad at Korea University with WorldStrides

4

TEAN was the perfect choice for my first time leaving the country. They made the entire process smooth and guided you along the way on zoom for applying for a visa and registering in courses. It made the entire process stress free--I couldn't recommend them enough! My time in Korea was spent traveling every weekend, and I really feel like I got the most out of my 4.5 months there and in turn became extremely confident planning trips. Both program coordinators Kakao talk IDs' were available, and they were always available to give recommendations and would respond fast. The on-campus housing in the Anam international dorm was clean and had updated facilities. The downstairs also had a kitchen you could store food in. As for academics, my teachers were very kind. I would recommend going to office hours for any non Korean courses you take because it makes understanding the grading easier. They were always willing to work with me!

Gyeongbokgung Palace + Hanbok Try On

Awesome Experience!

August 26, 2025by: Phoebe Sutherland - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

5

I cannot say enough great things about this program and the experience I had. Given the opportunity to learn and live in Sevilla was a life changing expereicne. ISA does a great job organizing housing, taking us on awesome excursions and amazing classroom experience. Everyday was a new adventure and everday I was learning something about the culture or experiencing something new. My whole college experience is drastically changed after getting to experience a semster in Sevilla.

Cusco is amazing

August 24, 2025by: sara parietti - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Cusco, Peru with WorldStrides

4

During the spring Semester of 2024 I got the chance to study abroad with ISA in Cusco Peru. During my time there I stayed with a host family in their apartment. My host family only knew Spanish so I was lucky enough to get to practice my Spanish speaking skills with them. I also met my best friend in Cusco and became close with their host family also. Because I got to get to know all these people and me and my friend were both heritage speakers we got to have a very authentic experience. Despite Latin America being known as dangerous I never felt or faced any danger when in Cusco. The program was structured very well every day (except the weekend) we got to go to two classes and then during the afternoons we got to be independent and roam around the city to explore stuff on our own. In addition there were also days where our ISA professors would take us on field trips. For example one of our professors (professor alberto) took us to many different places such as saquesaywaman and San Pedro market. In addition the program also took us to Machu Picchu and Madre de Dios (a section of the amazon rainforest) For spring break me and my friend also got to travel independently to Lima and Paracas.

me eating guinea pigMe and my friend at machu picchu Me and travel group in the Amazon rainforest

The most life changing experience!

August 22, 2025by: Ellie Mosler - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

5

I cannot rave about the experience that I had with ISA enough! I went with my best friend and it allowed us to gain a whole realm of experiences and opportunities while we were making unique memories that will last a lifetime. We stayed together with a host mom, Inma, who truly made us feel like we were right at home. She loved and cared for us like we were her own children, offering to help us with whatever we needed whether it was a ride to/from the airport, flamenco lessons, or help with my spanish homework assignment - she was there. I cannot express how much I miss Sevilla and the people I got to experience it with (including my professors Isabel and Coronada)!

Great cultural experience

August 14, 2025by: Izzy VanDusen - United States

Program: Community Engagement in Granada, Spain with WorldStrides

4

This was a very nice experience. The city of Granada was lovely! The coordinators made us feel so at home and were very helpful. I really appreciated how culturally immersed I felt in this city (since some can be very touristy, which creates a lack of opportunity for language immersion). I especially loved Ángel’s tour guides. He shared much of the history of Granada (and more), which my group and I found very intriguing. He was not only an excellent coordinator and history “teacher,” but a very kind, friendly, and outgoing individual with whom we loved to talk. I ended up having 2 homestays in my 2 months there. I was disappointed with the results of my first homestay since the family made me feel excluded and didn’t spend much time with me, but María (one of the coordinators) was very helpful in finding me a new placement the second month, which I was relieved to have.

Rome was a masterpiece!

August 10, 2025by: Aiden Leonard - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Rome, Italy with WorldStrides

4

I went to Rome in the Spring of 2024 and it was an unreal experience. My professors were super helpful and I learned so much in my classrooms as they were smaller. I also travelled to 11 countries on the weekends. From skiing in the alps, to the desert in Morocco. It was amazing to see all the nature and architecture that the world has to offer. The Italian people were super friendly and the food was the best I ever had. I highly reccommend this experience to everyone!

LOVED my time abroad with WorldStrides!

August 09, 2025by: Vivian Mergler - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Florence, Italy with WorldStrides

4

I had an amazing experience studying abroad in Florence, Italy! The housing was in a fantastic location, just a short walk from the city center and all the landmarks. The school itself was both challenging and exciting—there was always something new to learn, and the professors were passionate about what they taught. The staff was incredibly helpful and made sure everything went smoothly, from settling in to offering support throughout the semester. One of my favorite parts of the program was the weekend trips we took to nearby cities and sights. It was the perfect balance of academics and exploration. Highly recommend this program to anyone looking for a memorable study abroad experience!

Study Abroad in Granada!

August 09, 2025by: Peyton Rosa - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Granada, Spain with WorldStrides

5

My favorite place on earth! Granada is very special and has so much to offer. While being a smaller city, it does not lack excitement and activities for a younger generation. It's safe and the people there are kind and generous. I lived iGranadada for almost 9 months, and my experience with the onsite directors, schooling, and fellow students was amazing. I would recommend Granada to someone looking for a smaller city with lots of culture and a slower-paced and affordable lifestyle. I cannot wait to come back and visit my directors and teachers.

I had a magical time

August 08, 2025by: lily clement - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Cusco, Peru with WorldStrides

5

When I decided to study abroad in Cusco, Peru, I was nervous. It was my first time away from home, and I didn’t know what to expect. Being met at the airport by my advisors helped me settle in quickly. Soon after, I met my host mom and roommates, and I could already tell leaving would be hard. Cusco was a beautiful city, and people were open about sharing their culture. I took weaving and dance classes, visited Inca sites, and attended Inti Raymi. I also got altitude sickness hiking Rainbow Mountain, but it didn’t stop me from enjoying the trip. I had a caring host family, helpful staff, and professors who knew their field. I built strong friendships and made lasting connections. Machu Picchu was incredible, but the real highlight was feeling comfortable and at home in a place so different from where I’m from.

Enjoyed my time in Barcelona!

August 05, 2025by: Ofelia Mattingly - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Barcelona, Spain with WorldStrides

4

Traveling to Barcelona without any prior travel abroad experience, I was extremely nervous and excited. This was my first time traveling a long distance without family or friends I was well-acquainted with. ISA made my comfort level great as soon as I arrived in the country. They made sure that I knew where I was going and were given ample time to make friends with the other study abroad students. Barcelona is such a beautiful city! The excursions included visits to: La Sagrada Familia, a staple tourist attraction; A weekend trip to Valencia; and a trip to Girona and the Dalí Museum. Of course, we were given time to do our travel, where I traveled more inside the country (Madrid, Tossa de Mar, and a short trip south to Morocco). Having these opportunities allowed me to explore the city and get to know the locals, traditional foods, and more! During my time there, I opted to do a homestay. ISA did a fantastic job in matching me with a family that cared for me and made sure I was well taken care of. I know that if I did have any problems (which I didn't), they would be able to support me to solve the issue I could have had. I attended UPF while I was there. The classes took some time to get used to as they were quite different from what I am used to in the States. But I enjoyed the class options and was able to get the credits transferred back with ease. Overall, this study abroad experience in Barcelona is something I will never regret. I was able to have a more global perspective on things. I really recommend this program, even if it is not in Barcelona, to study abroad, as it helped me grow both personally and professionally!

From Morning Markets to Midnight Magic: Study abroad in Madrid for an experience you will never forget

August 05, 2025by: Eliza Odenwald - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Madrid, Spain with WorldStrides

5

This past summer, I had the incredible opportunity to spend four unforgettable weeks studying abroad in Madrid, Spain through the ISA WorldStrides program. I took two courses—European Studies and Art in Spain—which dove deep into Spain’s rich history, vibrant culture, and cherished traditions. My classes were held at the prestigious Universidad Antonio de Nebrija, giving me the chance to fully immerse myself in Spanish life and connect with local students and professors. Although I had class every weekday, that never stopped me from experiencing all that Madrid had to offer. By day, I explored the city’s fascinating history—wandering through the Prado Art Museum, touring the Royal Palace, browsing the colorful streets at El Rastro, and strolling beneath the trees of Retiro Park. And when the sun went down, Madrid came alive in a whole new way. Whether I was watching the sunset from one of the city’s many rooftop terraces or dancing in the streets after a late-night dinner, Madrid’s nightlife never failed to amaze me. One of the absolute highlights of my program was a weekend trip to Valencia, perfectly organized by ISA. We ate authentic Paella right where it was invented, met welcoming locals, and spent time building unforgettable bonds with the other students in my program. It was the perfect blend of cultural discovery, friendship, and adventure. Living in Madrid was the best experience of my life. This journey pushed me to grow academically, socially, and personally. I left with a fresh perspective on the world, a deeper appreciation for trying new things, and memories—and friendships—that will last a lifetime. If you’re thinking about studying abroad, I cannot recommend it enough—especially with ISA in Madrid. It will be an experience you will never forget.

I couldn't have asked for a better experience.

August 02, 2025by: Caroline Berryman - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Lima, Peru with WorldStrides

5

Choosing to study in Lima was one of the best choices I've ever made. Peru is an amazing country with so much to offer from the jungle to the mountains as well as the coast where we stayed. ISA made everything so easy as well. There was always someone to contact 24/7 if there was a problem, they provided us with so much information like restaurants to go to and things to do as well as what to watch out for and what to do if you need help. The whole time I felt safe and looked out for. I really enjoyed living with a host family because they taught me so much about the culture and current events that I wouldn't have learned on my own. 10/10 experience that I hope everyone gets to have one day.

A Life Changing Experience!

July 25, 2025by: Kendall Barger - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Athens, Greece with WorldStrides

4

My time studying in Athens was unparalleled. At first, the environment seemed hostile and unwelcoming, but that all comes with the sole purpose of studying across the world; these things that are foreign to you soon start to feel like home. The small, uneven sidewalks, the fact that pedestrians don't have the right of way, and the hospitality culture are all different from what I experienced in America, but I got used to them as time went on. One thing I loved was the liveliness of downtown Athens, which was only a 20-minute metro ride from my campus building. I was lucky enough to experience parts of the bustling city as well as the peace of Agia Paraskevi, where my school was located. I loved that my program offered things that both abroad and local students could participate in, like pottery classes or intramural sports. My program also allowed us to immerse ourselves in the history of Athens through tours of the Parthenon, the Acropolis, and overnight trips to Meteora with fellow abroad students. One minor thing I wasn't expecting was the amount of money I would spend on laundry. I ended up spending almost 8 euros on one load of laundry, and even sometimes had to hang dry my clothes (this was expected, going to Europe, but I didn't know it would cost so much). A pro of my living situation was how the buildings were somewhat newly renovated and came fully stocked with most kitchen utensils and things we needed. The rooms and living spaces were fairly spacious; however, you will most likely be sleeping in a bunk bed, whether you have a shared room or a single. Grocery stores, pharmacies, and many other essential local amenities are all within a 5-minute walk from student housing. I visited my favorite coffee shop, Dimellos, every morning on my walk to class and quickly became friends with the store owner. Everyone is so friendly, and I always saw a familiar face, whether it was walking to class or out at night, and it fostered a sense of community. Travelling was made easy and became second nature the more you did it. These are some things that made my time abroad so memorable, and if you are unsure where to study, you should consider Athens, Greece, as it was not originally an option for me, but now I see it as my second home.

Seville, Well Worth My Years of Interest in Studying Abroad

July 23, 2025by: Gerard Carratura - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

4

For my 2025 spring semester I finally got to fulfill a years-long goal of studying abroad. My journey towards completing this experience was very intentional and I prioritized a lot more than just having fun. Before entering college, I set the goal to take a semester abroad and do everything I can to make it work financially and academically. I knew I wanted to travel in the future and always thought I'd find fulfillment in doing so. I spent my sophomore year researching study abroad programs until I landed on ISA in Seville for spring of my junior year. I could complete my Spanish minor immersed in Spanish culture and take classes that counted as credits towards my global business undergraduate certificate and my B.S in finance. Being able to stay on track academically and getting a scholarship and other aid from my home university seemed to make this a worthy opportunity for me. However, I wouldn't truly know how worthy it would be until actually doing it. When I touched down in Seville on my 1,000+ mile solo-journey, ISA helped me get to my host family and made my traveling feel stress-free. ISA consistently offered this type of support throughout my semester, for both my academics and safety. I was worried about meeting my host family and making friends i the program. I had not gone abroad with anyone that I knew and would be living with a random roommate in the house of a family that did not speak English. These things were well beyond my usually comfort zone, but I knew they would make for a valuable experience that would be fun to look back on. I ended up having a great roommate and a fantastic host family that I was able to practice my language skills on. Ultimately, everyone going into this experience, whether with friends or not, is probably out of their comfort zone in some way. The first week reminded me of my first week at college freshman year where everyone is willing to socialize and make new friends more than they may usually be. It was funny having that experience again a few years later with other students who have already been through that as well. Overall, I had an amazing time in Seville, and I want to go back in the future. I bonded over soccer with classmates, and we spent a lot of time watching games at bars, going to games in Seville (Soy con Betis), and even taking trips together in Porto and Mallorca, outside of the trips that came with my ISA program. Soccer was a big reason I chose Seville as I knew it was the heart of serious passion in Spain. I get goosebumps thinking about the roar of Betis fans in the Benito Villamarín as they sang before and throughout games and beeped their motorcycles to the tune of...bad words towards their rivals. My soccer experiences peeked seeing an American score for Betis against Madrid from the front row and that same player scoring in the derby against Sevilla (as I stood in a crowd outside a bar nearby the stadium, where about 10% of people could actually see the game on the bar TV and the rest screamed for Betis blindly). I got to experience the love of soccer in Seville many times a week in different ways, meeting people from Spain and around the world as my friends and I went to different bars, games, and events. Seville was rich with culture and events like "Semana Santa" and "Día de Andalucia" were extraordinary to experience. I meant so many local people in Seville, on solo trips to other cities, and with my friends and program. I learned so much from these people and will cherish every conversation. I will cherish all of the conversation. All of the food, kebab especially. All of the soccer. All of the trips. All of the nights out. I have countless stories to tell and experiences I won't forget. Seville was a perfect city for its location, weather, medium-size, food, culture, and so much more. My host family was super supportive as well and I made a friendship with my host brother and sister that has lasted beyond my programs finish. Ultimately, you can make study abroad what you want it to be. I meant other students in countless different situations and found that success abroad came down to just how willing you are. Willing to embrace a new culture, start conversations with strangers, try to communicate in a new language, and adjust to countless other things. I was willing to do these things and left Seville with so many great memories, new American and Spanish friends with them. My classes were anchored to local events and offered activities throughout the city. I had plenty of support from the people at ISA Seville's office and rarely felt unsafe. Overall, I had a lot of fun and studying abroad and it was well worth the hype I gave it beforehand. I would encourage anyone who wants to take courses in business or Spanish, experience soccer culture, eat good food, meet nice people, and live in a nice city to choose Seville. These are things I can speak to directly and I hope anyone reading this with overlapping interests would consider Seville for their study abroad city.

Spring Semester on the Gold Coast

July 18, 2025by: Reese Levansavich - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

4

Living on the Gold Coast was an incredible experience. It’s such an amazing place with stunning beaches and warm weather. On the Gold Coast there’s a really relaxed yet active lifestyle that makes it easy to enjoy every day. I lived off campus in Broadbeach, just a short 5-minute walk from Kurrawa Beach. I spent a lot of time at the beach going for walks, swimming, catching a tan, or watching the surfers! I stayed at Meriton Suites in Broadbeach, and it had everything I needed. The apartment was modern and comfortable, and the building had great amenities like a pool, hot tub, gym, sauna, and even a place to grill. Broadbeach was a balanced place to live. It was quiet enough to focus and unwind, but still had restaurants, cafes, and shops nearby. There’s so much to do in the Goldcoast. There were nearby mountains you could hike, several beaches, wildlife sanctuaries, amusement parks, restaurants, etc. It always felt like there was something new to see or try. At the same time, the area felt really livable, not just a tourist destination. Surfers Paradise was just a 6-minute tram ride or a 1.5 mile walk along the coast. This area was a lot more lively, with a busy social scene. I really felt like I had the best of both worlds living wise. The weather was a major highlight. Almost every day was sunny and warm, which made it easy to spend time outdoors and really enjoy the environment. By the end of my stay, I felt healthier, more connected to nature, and just overall refreshed. I studied at Griffith University on the Gold Coast campus, and it was honestly a great experience. The academics were good, and all my courses transferred smoothly back to my home university. The professors were super helpful and approachable, which made a big difference. The campus itself had a lot to offer, however there wasn't a huge social scene on campus like there is at my home university. I only had to go to campus three days a week, so I had a nice balance of study and free time to explore the area. If you’re thinking about studying abroad, I’d really recommend the Gold Coast. It offers a great mix of natural beauty, things to do, and a comfortable lifestyle that’s easy to settle into. This experience felt like a 4 month vacation while also getting an education!!

Studying Abroad in Florence, Italy – A Three-Week Experience I'll Never Forget

July 18, 2025by: Neely Rutland - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Florence, Italy with WorldStrides

5

This past summer, I had the incredible opportunity to study abroad in Florence, Italy through a three-week program with ISA and WorldStrides. I took a course called Wine Windows and Wine Business Walks, which was one of the most unique and engaging classes I’ve ever taken. The course brought us out into the streets of Florence and into the Tuscan countryside, where we explored wine windows, visited vineyards, and learned about the history and marketing of Italian wine directly from local producers. What made the experience even more special were the day trips that ISA and WorldStrides planned for us. We explored Pisa and took the classic leaning tower photo, wandered through the medieval towers and charming streets of San Gimignano, and soaked in the rich culture and stunning views in Siena. Each destination gave us a different glimpse into Italy’s diverse history and regional charm, all without the stress of planning it ourselves. Outside of class and excursions, Florence quickly felt like home. Whether it was sipping cappuccinos in the morning, getting lost in Renaissance art, or watching the sunset over the Arno, every day felt like a dream. This experience not only deepened my academic interests but also helped me grow personally and culturally. I highly recommend this program to anyone looking to combine education, travel, and adventure in one unforgettable summer.

Best time of my life with ISA- Lima with Michelle!

July 17, 2025by: Kelcie Pollinger - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Lima, Peru with WorldStrides

5

I did a 5 week program to Lima, Peru and absolutely loved it!! Michelle, our program director, gave us lots of information prior to departure and then she met us all at the airport for pickup! Overall, ISA gave us tons of resources and was in constant contact with our host families and our universities during the whole trip. They also planned many little activities that were optional which I appreciated. These were always local and such a good thing to squeeze in before class! During the weekends, I went on all the weekend excursions that they offered. Our program director knew most of the staff at the places/hotels we visited which comforted many of us and gave us the best experience. Overall, ISA gave us such an awesome group of staff members that not only challenged us, but acted as both our mothers and our friends all at the same time!

The Australia Experience

July 17, 2025by: Sophia Talo - United States

Program: Intern Abroad in Australia with WorldStrides

5

This was a wonderful program in a not-so-traveled part of Australia. When Americans think of Australia, they usually imagine Sydney or Melbourne. But Perth is quite the city gem. It's a very culturally rich city with fun activities, festivals, and museums. The area has plenty of nature, with Yanchep National Park nearby as well. There are plenty of fun places to go, and it is a large city to explore. The University is world-renowned, and the campus is beautiful. Everyone I met was so kind, and we were offered many opportunities to go out and explore the city and the surrounding area. I interned at Mosman Park Football Club as a Sports Trainer, and it was a fun way to meet people in the community, even see them out in the city. I was close with my mentor, and she still is a great friend of mine. The internship does not take away from your travel; if anything, they encourage it! My course work was difficult but nothing that was different from my home university. It was nice to learn from professors that are knowledgeable in their field. As a pre-health professional a study abroad experience is essential. It might seem impossible with the course work, shadowing and interning. But, you can do it all and still explore and learn and gain expirience. Especially if you aren't fluent in a language, Australia is a good alternitive.

The Australia Experience

July 17, 2025by: Sophia Talo - United States

Program: Intern Abroad in Australia with WorldStrides

5

This was a wonderful program in a not-so-traveled part of Australia. When Americans think of Australia, they usually imagine Sydney or Melbourne. But Perth is quite the city gem. It's a very culturally rich city with fun activities, festivals, and museums. The area has plenty of nature, with Yanchep National Park nearby as well. There are plenty of fun places to go, and it is a large city to explore. The University is world-renowned, and the campus is beautiful. Everyone I met was so kind, and we were offered many opportunities to go out and explore the city and the surrounding area. I interned at Mosman Park Football Club as a Sports Trainer, and it was a fun way to meet people in the community, even see them out in the city. I was close with my mentor, and she still is a great friend of mine. The internship does not take away from your travel; if anything, they encourage it!

ISA Valencia Program Review – Nicholas Q.

July 10, 2025by: Nicholas Quirin - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Valencia, Spain with WorldStrides

5

My time in Valencia with ISA has been incredible. From the moment I arrived, I felt welcomed, supported, and fully immersed in Spanish culture. The city itself is the perfect balance of historic charm and modern energy—whether I was walking through the old town, enjoying the beach, or grabbing food in Ruzafa, there was always something new to explore. Academically and personally, this program exceeded my expectations. My Spanish improved so much through both coursework and daily life interactions, and I felt like I was truly living the language. ISA’s on-site staff were amazing—they were always available, organized fun cultural excursions, and genuinely cared about our experience. They made it easy to feel at home even while being abroad. One of the best parts was getting to connect with other students from across the U.S. and locals in Valencia. I made close friendships, had unforgettable experiences, and grew more independent and open-minded. Whether we were visiting Albufera, biking through the Turia Gardens, or just sharing tapas after class, there was always laughter and good memories. This experience not only confirmed my passion for international education, but also helped shape my personal and professional goals. I can’t recommend ISA Valencia enough—it’s a fun, rich, and life-changing program in one of Spain’s most vibrant cities.

This experience was truly unforgettable.

July 01, 2025by: Addison Bunnell - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Madrid, Spain with WorldStrides

4

I had an absolutely amazing time while studying abroad in Madrid with ISA. I felt that the program did a great job of introducing us to other students when we got there and organizing events and trips. They showed us around the city and provided many tips and tricks to help us feel at home. They were always there to help us navigate the city. One thing I do wish I had though is my roommates contacts prior to moving across the world to meet them. I was assigned 5 random roommates to live with while studying abroad. While I agreed to this and was content with that choice, I was rather frustrated when I found out I had not contact to reach them. No phone numbers or emails were provided to communicate with each other. Eventually, we tracked each other down through social media but it was not easy and we all agreed we would have been fine with a contact being provided to the others. I was very satisfied with the location of our apartment as it was close to everything but not on a super busy street. Unfortunately, our apartment required a many maintenance requests and repairs. This became frustrating as the issues that needed to be fixed were not due to our error. While we understood it was an old apartment, it became inhibiting to our daily lives. In addition to the repairs, we were not expecting to have to leave our apartment earlier than told. While we were given another place to live temporarily, it was not an easy switch or what we were expecting to do during our final weeks of study abroad. Due to all that was going on, I decided to rebook my flight and return to the States early, missing out on my final days in Spain. I understand that another party owned the apartment, but it was still a problem we did not expect to face. Finally, I did not feel 100% supported by UC3M. While I loved meeting new teachers that taught in both Spanish and English, there were some things I did not like. In my Spanish classes, I felt there was a lot of bias and special treatment to those with Spanish as a first language. This was very frustrating as myself and many others were trying just as hard. It was also insanely hard to contact and communicate with teachers outside of the classroom, which I experienced many times from several teachers. I also felt that some of the class descriptions and syllabus that were provided when choosing classes were not accurate to the content taught in the courses. While I understand schools vary greatly across countries, I think that being able to easily communicate with teachers should always be a given.

Best program ever!

June 27, 2025by: Eliana Compton - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Madrid, Spain with WorldStrides

5

I don’t think I could have had a better study abroad program to be a part of! The staff was absolutely incredible and you can tell how much they care about and prioritize each and every student. The groups trips were always incredible and it was so fun to hear all the incredible things the staff had to share about the history and culture of different cities!

Best decision ever!!

June 25, 2025by: Claire Castleberry - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

5

fter researching different study abroad programs, I decided ISA was the best option for me, and I am so glad I did! ISA has the best benefits, is so budget friendly for what they provide, and there for you every step of the way. My experience in Seville was something I will never forget, and I highly recommend taking the step to go with ISA! I especially loved that ISA has an office in every study abroad city, so I know I have people there who are there for me in case of emergency or any needs I have! The bonus trips were also an amazing perk and gave me the opportunity to see new places and also get to know people on my program better.

ISA Florence Review

June 02, 2025by: Evelyn Nedderman - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Florence, Italy with WorldStrides

4

I had an incredible experience abroad. I truly enjoyed learning from my professors, whose insight and dedication made a lasting impact. The program staff were exceptionally responsive to emails and provided consistent support, which made me feel confident and well taken care of throughout the entire process. I always felt safe and supported during my time abroad, especially at the beginning when everything was new. The kindness and helpfulness of the staff made a huge difference and helped me settle in smoothly. Overall, I absolutely loved the experience and am grateful for how seamless and enriching it was.

AMAZING Semester

May 27, 2025by: Campbell Pekny - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

4

My nerves about study abroad were overcome by the exceeding of my expectations at Bond University. This semester was an amazing experience from the great Bond staff and faulty, traveling throughout Australia and New Zealand, and the relationships I formed! The professors that I had this semester were so knowledgeable in their fields and had so much to share. I discovered a new interest of mine through my Sport Development class. After studying during the week, the weekends were filled with traveling all over. My favorite places in Australia were Byron Bay and Cairns. These two places were different in their own ways but were great. And the South Island of New Zealand is amazing, the scenery is just beautiful!

Must Travel To!

May 18, 2025by: Brianna Hume - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

5

Honestly, this was one of the best experiences of my life! As someone who has never traveled outside of the country before I was extremely nervous. Except, when I landed I knew that I never wanted to leave! The professors clearly valued the students more than academics (however, I still felt like I learnt more here than I have at my home university). The culture, the food, the people, the environment, the architecture, are incomparable to the United States. Seville allows you to express yourself.

The Experience of a Lifetime

May 14, 2025by: Audrey Hankins - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Granada, Spain with WorldStrides

5

My time in Granada was nothing short of amazing, and lots of that has to do with ISA. I work in the study abroad office at my home university, so I have worked firsthand with other, competing programs, and I can confidently say that ISA is unmatched. The applications are straightforward, help is easy to find, and there is no shortage of information on the website—things that are not true of other programs. Prior to departure, I received an extensive arrival guide, one for me and another one for my family. This included information from where I could buy deodorant, to what to do when I got sick and an overview of the current popular music in Spain. This hands-on approach only continued when I arrived in Granada. I never felt alone or lost, and there were multiple activities offered every week to make sure we were getting involved in the community. In short, choosing ISA and ISA Granada was truly one of the best decisions I have ever made.

South Korea Food Experience

March 08, 2025by: Philip Phan - United States

Program: Study Abroad at Korea University with WorldStrides

5

Before coming to Korea, I was a picky eater. However, given a unique situation and a positive mindset towards new experiences, I tried new foods and enjoyed eating seafood for the first time. If you're unsure about studying abroad in Korea, you should go for it and enjoy the experience of being in a new country. I explored a new culture and ate fresh foods I would never find in the US for a lower price. I recommend checking out night markets, new districts, and social media to find hidden restaurants serving unique foods. Overall, this program has provided me with the opportunity to discover new things and given me an experience that I will never forget.

Philip Phan video

From Mountains to Mundane

February 28, 2025by: Ben Weeldreyer - United States

Program: Study Abroad at Korea University with WorldStrides

4

I think one thing people don’t tell you when you study abroad is how quickly the extraordinary becomes routine. At first, everything is new; every street corner, every meal, every cultural difference feels like an adventure. In Korea, I was awed by the towering peaks of Bukhansan, the neon-lit streets of Seoul, and the centuries-old palaces that stood as reminders of a rich and complex history. Each day felt like a discovery, from tasting tteokbokki at a street stall to navigating public transportation in a foreign language. But after a while, the novelty starts to fade. The subway routes become second nature, the sounds of a new language shift from overwhelming to background noise, and the once-exciting challenge of ordering food turns into just another part of the day. That’s when you realize the true essence of studying abroad, it’s not just about the grand adventures, but about embracing the everyday moments in a different culture. For me, those mundane moments became the most meaningful. Studying in a café tucked away in a quiet alley, sharing inside jokes with new friends from across the world, finding comfort in a familiar park bench, going to church on Sunday, these are the things that stick with me. It’s not just about climbing literal mountains, but about navigating the highs and lows of adapting to a new way of life. And when it’s time to leave, you realize that what once felt foreign has somehow become home.

Ben Weeldreyer video

From Mountains to Mundane

February 28, 2025by: Ben Weeldreyer - United States

Program: Study Abroad at Korea University with WorldStrides

4

I think one thing people don’t tell you when you study abroad is how quickly the extraordinary becomes routine. At first, everything is new; every street corner, every meal, every cultural difference feels like an adventure. In Korea, I was awed by the towering peaks of Bukhansan, the neon-lit streets of Seoul, and the centuries-old palaces that stood as reminders of a rich and complex history. Each day felt like a discovery, from tasting tteokbokki at a street stall to navigating public transportation in a foreign language. But after a while, the novelty starts to fade. The subway routes become second nature, the sounds of a new language shift from overwhelming to background noise, and the once-exciting challenge of ordering food turns into just another part of the day. That’s when you realize the true essence of studying abroad, it’s not just about the grand adventures, but about embracing the everyday moments in a different culture. For me, those mundane moments became the most meaningful. Studying in a café tucked away in a quiet alley, sharing inside jokes with new friends from across the world, finding comfort in a familiar park bench, going to church on Sunday, these are the things that stick with me. It’s not just about climbing literal mountains, but about navigating the highs and lows of adapting to a new way of life. And when it’s time to leave, you realize that what once felt foreign has somehow become home.

Hiking DobongsanChilling in the Dorm Room
Ben Weeldreyer video

Incredible experience!

February 27, 2025by: Valentina Altman - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Milan, Italy with WorldStrides

4

I have always wanted to study abroad, but I never expected an experience like this one, as provided to me through ISA. Milan was an absolutely incredible city, and ISA led me through the changes perfectly, with clear instructions and constant open communication. If you get the chance, study abroad with ISA- the community this company builds among students abroad is unmatched, and the quality of employees is exactly what's necessary for a dramatic change like going abroad.

Lady on the road with cars and buildings at her back

Live Your Dreams

February 27, 2025by: Breeze Kelly - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Valencia, Spain with WorldStrides

4

I always dreamed to study abroad and finally doing it was the best experience of my life! I traveled to 6 different countries while I was abroad and made life long friends. I’ll never forget the memories I made in Valencia. A piece of me will always remain there! Fulfill your dreams, do it even if you’re sacred, I was too! It turned out to be better than I could have imagined.

Snowboarder posing in snow

Best few months EVER!

February 27, 2025by: Katelyn Maloney - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Florence, Italy with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad was truly the best experience of my life, and I would recommend it to absolutely anyone. Going into it, I was terrified—traveling to a foreign country alone without knowing anyone felt overwhelming. But taking that leap paid off in ways I never imagined. This experience gave me so much confidence in myself and a deep trust in my own abilities. I not only made lifelong friends and unforgettable memories, but I also left with a stronger, more fulfilling relationship with myself. Being immersed in different cultures firsthand is the best way to gain perspective, knowledge, and personal growth. A huge part of what made this experience so incredible was the support from ISA. From the very beginning, they provided guidance and reassurance, making the transition so much easier. I always felt safe knowing that if I ever needed help, I could rely on them. Their support allowed me to focus on enjoying my time abroad and truly making the most of every moment. If you're on the fence about studying abroad—do it. It’s scary at first, but it’s an adventure that will change your life in the best possible way!

Writting this wishing I was still studying in Valencia.... 10/10 Experience

February 26, 2025by: McKenzie Farmer - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Valencia, Spain with WorldStrides

5

I loved studying abroad in Valencia! It’s a great city for someone looking for a vibrant, mid-sized city—not as big as Barcelona or Madrid, but still full of life. Valencia has a huge student population, beautiful access to the sea, and an incredible social and cultural scene that’s unlike anywhere else I’ve been. I highly recommend going with ISA. From pre-departure support to the in-country staff, excursions, housing, and university options, my experience with ISA was excellent. I was placed in a beautiful top-floor apartment with a large terrace overlooking the city. I had the best roommates and I think ISA was intentional in matching up roommates when it came to homestay pairs or apartments which I know we all appreciated! ISA local staff make an effort to know the students. They took us out for not only our excursions but also typical Spanish meals and taught us about the culture. I can't imagine going with another program. One thing I would do differently is be more intentional, earlier on, about joining clubs, sports groups, international meetups, and local volunteer organizations. Some of my most lasting connections outside of class and my ISA program friends came from getting involved in the community. Whether it was playing weekly beach volleyball, volunteering for flood cleanup, or joining the American Space to help Spanish students with English, these experiences helped me connect with locals and immerse myself in Spanish culture in a deeper way. The amazing excursions, like paella-making and ISA-organized trips, were incredible opportunities to experience Spanish culture within the program. But I also loved seeking out activities on my own. I really appreciated that the local ISA support staff would send out volunteer opportunities or organize extra social events beyond the main group activities. Thanks to their recommendations, I even joined a kite surfing class—and I absolutely loved it!

Exquisite buildings and sunset

Would recommend to anyone!

February 26, 2025by: Paige Brown - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Christchurch, New Zealand with WorldStrides

4

I went to UC for Forestry, as the school is well known for the program, and I am so glad I did. The classes were very interesting, and I felt completely welcomed as an international student, as many professors accommodated for lack of prior knowledge of the area by taking time with me to help me understand the land I was now living in. As for the program, I was able to meet some great people who have already moved into the status of life-long friends. I was able to go all around the South Island and see some of the most beautiful sights in the world, and some were already included in the program. Whether it was boating on the Milford Sound or sea-kayaking with dolphins and penguins, my experience was nothing less than extraordinary. Our advisor was super helpful and provided us with great support and recommendations as we went through the semester. I had the time of my life, and I would recommend it to anyone!

Great Experience, But Direct Exchange Would Have Been About the Same

February 26, 2025by: Christie Hicks - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Tokyo, Japan

4

I had a great time studying abroad in Japan! The school was great and I made a bunch of friends. TEAN provided a bunch of cultural outings that were really fun. However, if I were to do it again I would probably do a direct exchange. The organization and support of the TEAN program could have been better, and most of my best memories were made outside of TEAN activities. I really enjoyed my time and don't have any regrets, but I know that if I had needed extra support while I was there, as several people I knew did, I would have felt less satisfied with my experience. Overall, J.F. Oberlin was a great school and I really liked my classes. They're very welcoming to international students and I really enjoyed my time there. The dorms were pretty nice and were super close to a train station and the bus stop. You end up with plenty of free time to explore Japan (though be sure to actually attend your classes!!) and it's a great experience. If you have the travel bug and want to go somewhere during your time in college, this is a great program to check out! Be sure to compare the difference between direct exchange and TEAN though.

Would Not Have Changed a Thing

February 26, 2025by: Kaitlin Gardner - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Singapore with WorldStrides

5

My experience in Singapore was absolutely amazing! Singapore is a beautiful, clean, safe country that was so much fun to explore. Everyone I met there was so nice and welcoming, and I never wanted to leave. Getting to study at SMU was especially great, because the location of the school is so central and conveniently located. Not only that, but the students have so much passion and excitement for their school, that even as an exchange student I felt welcomed and like a real, valuable member of the SMU community. Plus, Singapore offers an amazing chance to explore surrounding countries in Southeast Asia! I got to visit so many countries that I never would have had a chance to visit otherwise in my life, and I am so grateful to have been able to experience so many unique and diverse cultures. I definitely recommend this program to anyone looking to get out of their comfort zone and try something new!

One of the best decisions of my LIFE!

February 25, 2025by: Salome Kufuor - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Singapore with WorldStrides

4

Singapore captivated me entirely during my study abroad experience! I wouldn't change a single aspect of my semester there. The academic environment challenged me while still allowing me time to explore, perfect for balancing my studies and adventures. The convenience of traveling to neighboring Asian countries between classes and on weekends was one of the unexpected highlights, allowing me to enhance my educational journey by exploring the region with ease. I was constantly impressed by Singapore's exceptional cleanliness and security, which created an environment where I could fully enjoy my passion for cycling - even biking back to my accommodation after late-night study sessions without any safety concerns. These four months of studying abroad were the most transformative period of my life. The connections I formed with fellow international students and the experiences I shared in and outside the classroom have left an indelible mark on me. While I deeply miss the friends who became family during my academic journey abroad, I carry our memories close to my heart and remain confident that our paths will cross again someday. Singapore wasn't just where I studied - it became a second home I'll always cherish as a pivotal chapter in my educational and personal development.

Collage of photos of Salome Kufuor in different settings.

The best four months of my life

February 24, 2025by: Kaya DeAngelis - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Tokyo, Japan

4

Living in Japan truly changed my entire outlook on life. Before studying abroad in Tokyo, I had never left the United States, so to travel 7000 miles away from home was a huge leap of faith. However, I built a second home in Japan with my dorm, friends, teammates, and classmates. Being immersed in my culture and meeting my family there was incredibly rewarding, and I grew so much as a person and a student. Studying abroad takes you out of your comfort zone and pushes you to take chances you never would have at home. Japan is so safe, forgiving, and welcoming, I'm so glad I chose to study there!

Kaya at Tokyo Disneyland.

Amazing experience with ISA in Barcelona!

February 22, 2025by: Annie Sylvester - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Barcelona, Spain with WorldStrides

4

I had such a great time studying in Barcelona, Spain with ISA for the Fall 2024 semester! The ISA staff was so great and helpful throughout the experience and provided me with so many wonderful opportunities and activities to get to know the city. I played in the study abroad soccer league as well as took Latino dance classes through ISA. Living in a homestay also helped me improve my Spanish and challenge myself! Throughout my semester, I became so much more independent and confident. This was truly one of the greatest experiences of my life!

Best experience of my life!

February 22, 2025by: Meghan Inskeep - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad in Thailand with TEAN was truly a life-changing experience that I will cherish forever. It pushed me far out of my comfort zone and helped me grow in ways I never imagined. Living in a completely different culture made me more adaptable, and it opened my eyes to the beauty of diversity. I not only gained valuable academic knowledge but also learned so much about myself and the world around me. As a friend and daughter, I became more patient, understanding, and empathetic after interacting with people from all over the world. I learned how to embrace differences, listen more attentively, and create meaningful connections. I became a better listener, which made me appreciate the relationships I have with my friends and family even more. This journey also sparked my love for travel. I now feel more confident and excited about exploring new places, trying new things, and immersing myself in unfamiliar environments. I now have a greater sense of independence and self-assurance that I can take with me throughout my life. Academically, my experience in Thailand motivated me to strive for excellence in my studies. I realized the importance of education, especially when it comes to understanding the world from a global perspective. I became more focused, driven, and determined to make the most out of my academic opportunities. Most importantly, studying abroad with TEAN in Thailand transformed me into a more worldly and open-minded individual. I came back home with a deeper understanding of global issues and the unique perspectives of people around the world. It truly changed my life in ways that go beyond what words can express, and I will forever be thankful for this incredible experience. If you ever have the chance, I highly recommend studying abroad with TEAN in Thailand – it’s an experience you will never forget.

Lit AF

February 20, 2025by: Josephine Morfeld - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Madrid, Spain with WorldStrides

4

It was a very fun experience traveling, meeting new people, and learning about other cultures. I enjoyed every aspect of studying abroad except for the school part. The commute to UC3M was a drag and I never got used to it. There came a point where I just gave up on going to my classes that didn't take attendance. I also don't like the website they use for school, which was called aulaglobal. I think canvas is set up more organized and they should switch to that. UC3M engineering is very difficult, and those classes definitely require too much effort for a study abroad student to be able to balance the fun study abroad aspects and school at the same time. I also think the professor for the class called "Measuring Instrumentation" is a terrible professor who doesn't care about his students learning or success. His name is Pedro Martin Mateos and everyone should avoid him and his measuring instrumentation class. I also think the security guard in the La Latina Mi Casa Inn needs to mind his business. He loved to order us around and tell us we couldn't be downstairs or we were being too loud when we weren't. I also didn't really like the shared kitchen aspect. But my overall experience was really amazing and I loved it a lot, I'm just going into detail on the downsides because if I went into detail on the positives this would be exponentially longer lol.

The best 4 months of my life.

February 20, 2025by: Aubrianna Johnson - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Florence, Italy with WorldStrides

5

Studying in Florence was one of the best decisions I have ever made. I met some of my best friends while getting an education and working towards my degree. The program itself offered multiple opportunities to connect with the community and other students who were studying abroad. I stayed at the social hub which was so much fun, they offer cooking classes every Thursday night and Friday night drinks which was a great way to meet other students from other programs. ISA program offered many activities right at the beginning of the program which helped me ease my way into adjusting to a new environment. I loved the support the staff gave to each student. Overall, it was a great experience.

A night in Italy

Málaga and ISA

February 14, 2025by: Kaela Ricket - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Malaga, Spain with WorldStrides

5

My summer abroad in Malaga, Spain was an absolute dream! The program provided the perfect balance of structured learning and free time to explore. Our classes were engaging and insightful, offering a deep dive into the Spanish language, culture, and history. The professors were passionate and supportive, creating a welcoming learning environment. The program also organized a variety of cultural activities and excursions, allowing us to experience the best of what Malaga and the surrounding cities have to offer. We visited stunning historical sites like the Alhambra in Granada. But perhaps the most valuable aspect of the program was the opportunity to immerse myself in the local culture. Malaga is a vibrant and welcoming city, and the program provides the perfect framework for personal and academic growth. I left with a newfound appreciation for Spanish culture, a deeper understanding of myself, and memories that will last a lifetime.

Valencia Summer 2024

February 13, 2025by: Abigail Brunenavs - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Valencia, Spain with WorldStrides

5

My study abroad experience was truly incredible. The classes were challenging, but they pushed me to grow both academically and personally. I learned so much, not just about the language, but also about the culture and history of the country. My professors were fantastic—engaging, knowledgeable, and passionate about their subjects. I genuinely enjoyed listening to them speak, and they made learning an immersive and exciting experience. Housing was also a highlight of the program. I lived in a beautiful apartment that was equipped with everything we needed, and they even sent a cleaner every other week. We were immersed in a real apartment complex with local residents, which made the experience feel even more authentic and connected to the city. Beyond academics, the program organizers did an excellent job of helping us connect with each other and with the local culture. They planned a variety of fun activities, from cultural excursions to social events, that made it easy to meet new people and truly experience life in the city. The staff was incredibly supportive, always available to help with any concerns, and made sure we felt safe and well taken care of. Overall, this study abroad experience exceeded my expectations. It was an amazing balance of academic growth, cultural immersion, and personal adventure. I would highly recommend it to anyone considering studying abroad!

I had the time of my life in Thailand!

February 12, 2025by: Riley Bishop - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

4

Studying abroad in Thailand was genuinely the best decision I ever made. If you are looking for an experience completely different from what everyone else is doing...go to Thailand! Almost every single weekend I was able to travel to different places within Southeast Asia. I went to a total of six countries while I was there and it was actually so easy to travel and get around. From planes to trains to buses to ferries, all modes of transportation are so close and can take you wherever you need to go! Also, the university you attend isn't placed at the heart of the city so you have the chance to escape the busyness every once in a while! No, your apartment will not have a kitchen, but that is never a problem! First of all, it's cheaper to eat out than it is to cook in Thailand and secondly, you are a 30 second walk from a bunch of authentic food spots. All factors considered, I would recommend studying abroad in Thailand with TEAN any day!

The most unforgettable two weeks!

February 11, 2025by: Sammi Roberts - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

5

I had the pleasure of studying in Seville for two weeks during my Winterim term this year. Although the experience was brief, it allowed me to embrace all the opportunities that traveling abroad can offer. I forged meaningful connections with peers who shared my enthusiasm for exploring the world and immersing ourselves in a new culture. I was able to witness firsthand the values and traditions deeply rooted in Spanish culture. Additionally, I learned the true merit of stepping into the unknown—pushing myself out of my comfort zone and navigating new and unfamiliar circumstances. This trip was truly a perspective-shaping experience that left a lasting impact on me. I am grateful to the ISA team for providing this opportunity and experiences and all the staff who worked hard to make sure we received an immersive and enriching time while abroad!

Most Rewarding Experience of My Life!!!!

February 07, 2025by: Madison Penna - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Florence, Italy with WorldStrides

5

I decided to study abroad in Florence, Italy, Fall of my senior year of college. I was super nervous (and had never been to Europe), but I wanted to challenge myself! All I can say, is this experience taught me more about myself than I ever could have imagined. I traveled to 13 countries, met amazing lifelong friends, and ate the most fabulous food. I am truly aching to get back to Europe and explore even more. I was terrified to do this (as many other students are), but I promise, with all of the support from your program, you are more than prepared to take on the journey! There is no better time to immerse yourself in a new environment and live abroad than during college! You grow so much and learn a new appreciation for your host country, as well as your actual home! I have never been more proud of myself for leaving my comfort zone and diving into the most amazing for months of my life. I miss it every single day!

A Life-Changing Experience That I’ll Cherish Forever

February 07, 2025by: Olivia Cosgrove - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Sydney, Australia with WorldStrides

4

Studying abroad in Sydney, Australia was one of the most transformative experiences of my life. From the moment I arrived, Sydney lived up to every expectation and dream I had for my abroad experience. Waking up just minutes from the beach, exploring the iconic Opera House, and taking weekend trips to some of the most breathtaking places in the world made every day feel surreal. Studying at UNSW challenged me academically while also allowing me the flexibility to travel weekly and enjoy everything my host city had to offer. While many people don't expect it, there was a bit of a culture shock with the Aussie slang and slower pace of life. Engaging with locals and other international students made the experience so meaningful and transformational. I will never forget the amazing Australians who welcomed me with open arms and showed me what Australia was all about. Looking back at my four months in Australia, this experience shaped me into a more confident, independent, and open-minded person. Studying abroad pushed me beyond my comfort zone and gave me a new perspective of the world. I will always be grateful for this experience.

Absolutely Life Changing Experience

February 06, 2025by: Elena Ponichtera - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Athens, Greece with WorldStrides

5

I cannot emphasize enough if you are even slightly considering going abroad- DO IT. The program in Athens, Greece was truly a remarkable experience. I was a little nervous to go to a country that uses a completely different alphabet & is very culturally different than America, however looking back I can't see myself studying anywhere else. My courses taught by Greek professors were super engaging & I will never forget the relationships I built with my professors & peers. Also making friends in this program was super easy- everyone who participates in ISA meets each other through program-sponsored events as soon as the first day you are in Greece. The cultural immersion experiences organized by the program were amazing- we took Greek cooking & dance classes (and even got to go on an overnight trip to the Meteora monasteries in Greece!) Everything about this country & program was fantastic- I will never forget my experience in Athens and 10/10 encourage you to go out of your comfort zone and study abroad with them!

I love ISA!

February 06, 2025by: Laila Zeigler - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Athens, Greece with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad in Athens, Greece was the best four months of my entire life. ISA made the application process super simple and the on-campus advisors helped facilitate the program while I was there. I studied at the American College of Greece and was able to join clubs like dance club and surfing club. There are so many activities on campus and everyone is super inviting. They took us on some amazing excursions like Voulagameni beach and Meteora. I highly recommend studying abroad with ISA as they have so many destinations to choose from and have programs for most majors!!

Amazing summer in Granada!

February 03, 2025by: Libby Evans - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Granada, Spain with WorldStrides

4

I studied abroad in Granada through ISA during July of 2024. The program covered language and culture classes, all taught in Spanish, and I was able to finish my Spanish minor with the credits earned. I picked Granada over Barcelona because I wanted a more localized experience in which I could be fully immersed in the culture, and that's exactly what I got and more. I stayed with a host family in their apartment, a 20 minute walk from my classes. Every morning I would take a peaceful walk to class with other students through the beautiful, old, safe streets of the city, watching the world wake up. My host family did not speak much English so I was able to practice speaking Spanish every day, and they were patient and kind while helping me learn. ISA always had organized activities like a guided tour of the Alhambra, the ancient Islamic palace and gardens, tours of the city, wine tasting, a Flamenco show, beach trips, and mountain hikes. Our ISA chaperones, Melissa, Lorena, and Angel were kind, supportive, and always in touch. I got sick at one point and they helped me get to and from the hospital, offering support and communication to make the process as stress-free as they could. Granada is a beautiful city filled with life, stories, good food, and good people. I loved my experience and can't wait to visit again someday.

Incredible Semester in Granada!

January 30, 2025by: Nicole Lippucci - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Granada, Spain with WorldStrides

5

I had the best time with ISA in Granada! The ISA Staff is amazing and they are so supportive and also plan such great activities to help students get to know the city and make the most of their time. Granada is the perfect size because it is a city, so there are plenty of things to do, but small enough where it can really feel like home. Great to practice Spanish as it is not an international city. It is university city, so tons of students/young people to meet. Cannot recommend it enough!

Once in a lifetime experience.

January 28, 2025by: Ryan Childress - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

4

I decided to study abroad in Australia due to the environment and how different all the plants and animals are from the rest of the world. TEAN allowed me to not only go abroad but discover all sorts of amazing things in both the environment and in social settings as well. Being able to go to North Stradbroke Island was incredible and set an amazing tone for the rest of my time abroad. Not to mention the orientation in Cairns. I got to cross two things off my bucket list in the first week of being in Australia: seeing the Great Barrier Reef and skydiving! I got to meet people from all over the world during my time in the Gold Coast, as well as make lifelong friends with locals. The people there are so incredibly friendly, it would a challenge to not make friends while there. I absolutely loved my experience, and it has left me with the desire to go back as soon as I can.

Nearby Coolangatta beach, surfing hotspot

Best semester yet!

January 19, 2025by: Emily Rutherford - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

My semester at Bond University in Australia was an incredible experience that combined learning, adventure, and personal growth. The small class sizes and supportive professors made it easy to stay engaged, and I loved how the coursework connected to real-world situations. Beyond academics, Bond’s location on the Gold Coast meant I could spend my free time exploring amazing beaches, trying new foods like kangaroo and crocodile, and soaking in Australia’s unique culture. I also had the chance to travel to places like Auckland, Sydney, Perth, Uluru, Cairns, and Melbourne which were unforgettable. Living abroad taught me so much about being adaptable, stepping out of my comfort zone, and seeing the world from a new perspective—all while making lifelong friends. If you’re thinking about studying abroad, I couldn’t recommend Bond University more!

Bond University at nightKoala at local sanctuary near BondSunset in the Outback

Amazing opportunity

January 17, 2025by: Stella Domec - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

3

I had an amazing time in Thailand, however, I did have some issues with the program itself. The housing we were put in was not ideal, and the campus itself is quite far from the city. That being said, if you are looking for a more suburban campus, this is a good option, and being near Bangkok was practical for travel. The excursions provided were great, our orientation was so much fun and our program manager was so sweet and made us all feel like a family! She helped us with local customs, gave us advice, and treated us as adults and spent time with us beyond just her program duties.

*Cue the one American Authors song I know* THIS IS GONNA BE THE BEST DAY OF MY LIFEEEE. MY LI I I I I IIIIFEEE!

January 16, 2025by: Varenka Rodriguez - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Tokyo, Japan

4

私の留学するはとてもすごいかったです! (MY STUDY ABROAD EXPERIENCE WAS AMAZING!) From before I even got to Tokyo to the time I left, I was having the time of my life! Since I went through TEAN, a lot of the stuff beforehand was done through TEAN, the only thing I had to do on my own was the student visa. The arrival was easy since TEAN gave out a pamphlet, organized our housing and provided transportation. JUST A HEADS UP: I suggest buying a Japanese ESIM card for your phone before you go since it is cheaper than an international plan and you NEED a Japanese number if you plan on buying anything online from clothes to concert tickets. Through TEAN I had excursions to Hakone and Seoul (this one was extra but TOTALLY WORTH IT), and since Tokyo has a great public transportation system, I made my own excursions (the Center of Tokyo, Mt. Fuji, Kyoto, Hiroshima, Yokohama, etc). I made many lifelong friends throughout my experience from all over the world. I will now have friends from the USA, China, Japan, Korea, Brazil, Italy, and the Netherlands to name a bunch. I will not sugar coat it, the actual studying in the study abroad could be very difficult sometimes since the classes are long, the homework is a lot, and the best part: It's all in Japanese. YAY! But fear not, the teachers are very sweet and understanding, and personally, this teaching style definitely improved my Japanese. I will say though, knowing just a little bit of Japanese, even if it is just the numbers haha, goes a long way and the Japanese people will be thankful to you. Speaking of Japanese people, DO NOT BE AFRAID TO SPEAK IN JAPANESE TO THEM. They are usually pretty appreciative and impressed when a foreigner takes time out of their day to learn Japanese. I also recommend making friends with the locals! You might think they do not like you because they do not approach you usually, but in reality, they tend to be shy! My recommendations for befriending the locals: My university (JFOU) offered courses in English, and a majority of the people in those courses were Japanese people wanting to learn English (shout out to my friends Haruka, Jien, Sean, Masato and YOSHIIIIII)! If your university does not offer these courses, then I recommend interacting with the people that are at a place that you frequently go to. For instance, I started going to Starbucks to study and I noticed that it was usually the same people whenever I would go, so one day I started throwing in phrases in Japanese such as "kawaii=you are so cute (be careful with this one LOL)" "oishii =delicious" "kakkoi=so cool (also be careful with this one HAHA)" and "ganbattekudasai=YOU GOT THIS". Down the line these compliments lead to them waiving at me and making small talk with me while I enjoyed my drinks (Hojicha and Yuzu Citrus Tea are an 11/10 BTW) to spending time with me outside of their work hours. I should get paid for this, Starbucks. LOL JK. All in all, I have many stories to tell thanks to my trip in Japan through TEAN.

This was at the Inari Shrine in Kyoto!

This was the best college experience I've ever had!

January 13, 2025by: Patience Carbajal - United States

Program: Study Abroad at Korea University with WorldStrides

4

This program was absolutely amazing! The program had tons of fantastic trips and learning opportunities. The program managers were super helpful and involved in our experience. They were always available and responsive when we needed help! The school was at times difficult to communicate with as a foreigner, but TEAN staff were always able to help. I would recommend this program to anyone who wants to study in Korea!

I wish I could stay!

January 11, 2025by: Ariyanna Fernandez - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Busan, South Korea with WorldStrides

4

I LOVED my study abroad to Busan, specifically at Pusan National University. TEAN helped me so much to have fun cultural events and supported me through the visa process and the insurance process. I am so grateful for my program coordinator, Chinny Cruz, who helped me and my whole group of students feel so welcomed, safe, and provided multiple fun activities that made my experience in Busan unforgettable. Busans beautiful beaches interesting culture and especially the unforgettable sight of Dadaepo Beach is one to die for!

Dreamlike Experience Abroad

January 07, 2025by: Madison Smith - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Sydney, Australia with WorldStrides

4

I studied at the University of New South Wales in Sydney, Australia under the TEAN program. Academics were rigorous and stimulating at UNSW, but I appreciated taking only 3 classes per term since it allowed me more time to explore Sydney and Australia as a whole. Lab and seminar/discussion-based classes were the best way to make local friends! TEAN staff were amazing! They were extremely helpful and so sweet. I hung out with and really got to know my TEAN RD on a personal level while also knowing that they could also help me with any questions or issues I had. Housing was a mixed bag. I lived on UNSW campus and it was mostly fine. I started out living in a unit that had cockroaches. However, my RD advocated for me and the other students and we were moved into other housing quickly. I had friends living in the other accommodations option, living off campus about 15 minutes from UNSW, which was obviously superior to the on campus option. The only real benefit to living on campus was reducing commute time by a couple of minutes. I rarely ever felt unsafe in Sydney, even as a woman. Public transport and walking around at night in well lit areas was also very safe. Obviously, it is still important to apply common sense and avoid danger as much as possible, but otherwise, there was very little risk. Overall, I had an amazing experience and I would totally recommend studying abroad with TEAN in Sydney! I would recommend participating in all of the excursions, especially the surfing lesson!

An eye-opening abroad experience with TEAN!

January 01, 2025by: Ogechi Muruako - United States

Program: Study Abroad at Korea University with WorldStrides

4

Participating in the Korea University Summer Program was one of the best life decisions I've ever made. For one, this experience made more independent and self-confident. Stepping out of my comfort zone to try new things and navigate through many obstacles such as language barriers and culture shocks allowed me to grow proud of myself and be more confident that I can accomplish more in my future travel journeys. The cultural activities hosted both by TEAN and Korea University made the trip even more special. Some activities include a weekend trip to Busan, a day trip to Lotte World, and attending a baseball game with other students. All the activities I engaged allowed me to embrace Korean culture and learn about its history in a non-intimidating way. Making connections with different types of people was also a highlight of this experience. I made connections and new friendships with Korean locals and students of different cultural backgrounds. They allowed me to develop connections with Korean locals and other abroad students. Everyone I met along the way was super welcoming and made my study abroad journey even more exciting. If you’re looking for a summer or a short-term study abroad program, I highly recommend this one!

Hanbok Day at the Gyeongbokgung Palace!
Ogechi Muruako video

Awesome Semester!

December 31, 2024by: Nele Heide - Germany

Program: Study Abroad in Singapore with WorldStrides

4

I think Singapore was perfect as a study abroad location. I always felt safe and everyone speaks English, which makes conversations and meeting people easier. I also got the chance to travel a lot in south east Asia which was awesome. Our local advisor was great, he was always there if we needed something or had any questions. The housing location was great, only 5 minutes from University! Everything was reachable via trains. I had great roommates, the team events were fun, but could have been more throughout the semester. 5/5

The best study abroad choice I coud've made.

December 31, 2024by: Logan Lisowski - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Sydney, Australia with WorldStrides

5

While spending over five months living abroad as a student, I observed various cultural aspects within Australia that emphasized the nation's unique identity. The biggest cultural shifts and adaptations I saw while living in Australia were between the significance of sports within their society and the influences that the environment took within daily lives. In Australia, the significance of sports and the environment is an integral part of life, shaping their culture as a whole. One of the classes I took whilst participating in my study abroad was Sport and Learning in Australian Culture (EDUH), which a lot of the other study abroad students were taking also. This class allowed students the opportunity to participate in attending sporting events such as, The Australian Football League, Rugby, Cricket, Soccer, Horse Racing, Greyhound Racing, Surfing, Lifeguard training, and much more. This was my favorite class while studying abroad because it showed me and other students what Australian sports culture is all about. Furthermore, with my program manager TEAN, our group was able to attend numerous field trips including tours of the Blue Mountain National Park, Sydney Opera House, Taronga Zoo, Sydney’s Botanical Gardens, and much more. This allowed the group to immerse themselves within the environment that so many Australians are used to daily. Within the EDUH class and the TEAN field trips, I observed Australian culture through the lens of a local. While attending events from events within my EDUH class and field trips from my TEAN program I found that Australians rely on their sporting culture and environment to boost their significance within the world. I think that because Australia is so big of a country, yet has a little population, it makes it seem like the world is small while being there, yet so big at the same time. While being there I would often see the same faces, meet with friends at the same cafes or restaurants, go to the same beaches, the same parks, and much more. This has a huge roll of the environment within Australia. I was lucky enough to stay at a famous beach called Bondi Beach for a couple of weeks, and while being there I found that the environment of being there changed my mindset greatly. My friends and I were talking about how there are so many Australians surfing on a random Tuesday at 11:00 a.m., wondering if they even work or not. We later asked a local this exact question and their answer was solely related to their environment stating “I would rather live a happy lifestyle surfing and doing the things I want and working 2 days a week, rather than working 80-hour weeks like you Americans do.” This changed my perspective on how an environment can change everything about your life entirely. I really enjoyed this type of lifestyle/perspective for a while, however, after a while I learned that it is not for me. A lot of Australians seemed comfortable with where they are and not wanting any more out of life, while it seems like the complete opposite in the U.S.A. This could be because I am used to the lifestyle of always working and trying to get more money to enjoy life with traveling, I found that most Australians don’t think that way, most Australians I’ve had conversations with haven’t left their country at all. I think that this lifestyle is solely based on what you want from life and it’s okay to think either way. Furthermore, one of my favorite sporting events in Australia was the Australian Football League. This is quite similar to American Football yet with their Australian twist. From my own perspective, I found that Australians love their sports and use them as a way to go beyond fun, however, they use them for community and identities. This goes the same for how my host country acts with the sport of American Football. I am from a city called Buffalo in New York, and by far our biggest identity is our Football team. Whether it’s at home with family watching the game or attending the game in person the Buffalo Bills football team is without a doubt talked about in every household in this city. Much like Australians we use sports as a way to shape our culture and to shape our identity throughout the world, creating a positive image for the rest of the world to see us in. However, the environment doesn’t play nearly as much of a role as the Australian environment plays. The environment within Buffalo consists of some restaurants and Niagara Falls, while the environment in Australia consists of numerous parks, the Sydney Opera House, gardens, monuments, cafes, restaurants, and much more. My host country and Australia, have a huge cultural dependence on sporting events, however, my host country is less dependent on the environment while Australia is huge on the environment. This changed my perspective less on the sporting events, but mostly on the environment. Reflecting on my time abroad, I’ve gained an understanding of the cultural prominence of environment and sports within Australia especially how they’ve shaped societal values and national identity. I was surprised by how different and prominent Australian sports are within their culture, not just as an entertainment source, but as a social influence that connects people of all ages, backgrounds, regions, and much more. The environment for me was even more important seeing as how it played such a huge role in the culture. Looking forward, these experiences will shape my influence on community building, friendships, professional life, and much more, especially when considering the value of responsibility while engaging in diverse environments and other cultures.

This is me snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef. This was a huge dream of mine.Beautiful view of the Sydney Opera House, another big dream of mine being able to see this in person.This is me skydiving in Cairns Australia, this is where my orientation week took place, and was one of my most fun / favorite weeks of me studying abroad. This is because of the immense immersion that took place within the first couple of days, I saw

Life Changing Experience

December 24, 2024by: Amelie Bauer - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Chile with WorldStrides

3

Going abroad is a monumental time in someone’s life. The ability to live abroad with a host family allowed me to fully emerge within the community. I wouldn’t change my experience for the world. I would recommend a program in Latin America over anywhere in Europe. It is life changing.

I had a once-in-a-lifetime experience that I will I always be grateful for- but not without its faults.

December 22, 2024by: Melangelo Pride - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Cusco, Peru with WorldStrides

4

This program was great. I have recommended it to other students considering Spanish Language study abroad programs. However, I am black, so I did have some unique and unfortunate situations that I was put in that other students in our group really didn't have to deal with. I had some problems with my initial host mom, so me and my friend had to switch host parents 3 weeks into the program. Our first host mom basically tried to scam money out of us to repair her broken shower system. She accused my friend and I of “burning” her shower after we told her that the water was very cold. She argued with us and told us that it shouldn’t be cold because she claims that she tested out the shower the day before we arrived and that the water was so hot that it almost burned her. Well, if that was true, the water had somehow miraculously turned ice cold when we arrived. I am pretty sure there was an issue with the system that heats up the water. Anyways, when she went and checked the shower, she claims that we “burned” her shower. One, I don’t even know how that is a possible thing for us to do. She called a technician and had him “fix” the shower. Even after he came, sometimes when we would be showering, there would be smoke coming from the exposed wire. I thought that was normal because things were just different in Peru, but maybe it wasn’t (I am still not for sure). Maybe a week after the technician came, I was in the shower for maybe a minute, and it started to smell actually burnt, and then the shower head started sparking. I got so scared and turned everything off and flipped off the heat switch, then just had to wash off using the sink water. After I told her at the lunch what happened, she was getting agitated at me (she did not even care really about the safety hazard that was), and she called Andy. She then said we burnt the shower again (this time it was actually burnt, but again, I had no control over that). We followed her directions of how to use the shower; it was not rocket science. You have to flip the heat switch on, take a quick shower, then flip it off, then get out of the shower. This is what we did, so these incidents were neither at the fault of me or my friend. We had a meeting with Andy later that day before our class, a member of the on-site staff, and he was trying to make us pay for this shower that was already messed up since before our arrival. This was crazy, and I let him know that. He was not really listening to me or my friend at all when we explained the story. We had told him (and our host hom) that we could even warm up water and use a bucket to shower just so that we could have some warm water instead of it being ice cold, but they both refused that idea and said it was unpractical. He kept on saying that we needed to pay for the shower, and I was about to tell him off. I told him that I was not paying for that, because I am not about to be scammed into paying for a shower that obviously had problems before we even arrived. I said I was not gonna be using the shower again anyways from then on since we were being blamed for its heating problems- simply because we were showering. The only thing he helped us with was moving host parents. We had no problems after moving. Their shower was the same way- we had to flip a switch and even adjust the heating levels- but had no problems with their shower doing the same exact thing- which proves that my friend and I did not manually burn our hosts mom’s shower somehow. Honestly, dealing with that within the first 3 weeks was insane and pretty inconvenient. Sorry that this was long, but that whole situation was handled wrongly- besides us moving to better host parents. 8. Did you experience any situations that threatened your safety or negatively affected your health? Yes No If yes, please briefly describe the situation. Did you speak with a staff member? How helpful were they in handling the situation? I had some problems with my initial host mom, so me and my friend had to switch host parents 3 weeks into the program. Our 1st host mom accused my friend and I of “burning” her shower after we told her that the water was very cold. She argued with us and told us that it shouldn’t be cold because she claims that she tested out the shower the day before we arrived and that the water was so hot that it almost burned her. Well, if that was true, the water had somehow miraculously turned ice cold when we arrived. I am pretty sure there was an issue with the system that heats up the water. Anyways, when she went and checked the shower, she claims that we “burned” her shower. One, I don’t even know how that is a possible thing for us to do. She called a technician and had him “fix” the shower. Even after he came, sometimes when we would be showering, there would be smoke coming from the exposed wire. I thought that was normal because things were just different in Peru, but maybe it wasn’t (I am still not for sure). Maybe a week after the technician came, I was in the shower for maybe a minute, and it started to smell actually burnt, and then the shower head started sparking. I got so scared and turned everything off and flipped off the heat switch, then just had to wash off using the sink water. After I told her at the lunch what happened, she was getting agitated at me (she did not even care really about the safety hazard that was), and she called Andy. She then said we burnt the shower again (this time it was actually burnt, but again, I had no control over that). We followed her directions of how to use the shower; it was not rocket science. You have to flip the heat switch on, take a quick shower, then flip it off, then get out of the shower. This is what we did, so these incidents were neither at the fault of me or my friend. We had a meeting with Andy later that day before our class, a member of the on-site staff, and he was trying to make us pay for this shower that was already messed up since before our arrival. This was crazy, and I let him know that. He was not really listening to me or my friend at all when we explained the story. We had told him (and our host hom) that we could even warm up water and use a bucket to shower just so that we could have some warm water instead of it being ice cold, but they both refused that idea and said it was unpractical. He kept on saying that we needed to pay for the shower, and I was about to tell him off. I told him that I was not paying for that, because I am not about to be scammed into paying for a shower that obviously had problems before we even arrived. I said I was not gonna be using the shower again anyways from then on since we were being blamed for its heating problems- simply because we were showering. The only thing he helped us with was moving host parents. We had no problems after moving. Their shower was the same way- we had to flip a switch and even adjust the heating levels- but had no problems with their shower doing the same exact thing- which proves that my friend and I did not manually burn our hosts mom’s shower somehow. Honestly, dealing with that within the first 3 weeks was insane and pretty inconvenient. Sorry that this was long, but that whole situation was handled wrongly- besides us moving to better host parents. I would NOT ever recommend my first host mom to anyone, especially black students. But our new host mom, Carmen, was amazing and really made me feel comfortable for the rest of the 8 weeks we were there. I am so thankful that she agreed to take my friend and I because she saved us. At that point, we were both starting to regret choosing to do the summer II program a little bit because of our last host mom. We were a little bit fed up dealing with that stuff, but Carmen made us feel better and gave us no complications about anything the rest of the time we were there. I put a 5 because I do not recommend my 1st host mom at all (0), but Carmen is a 10 :) Both of my classes taught by Professor Alberto Chara- The History of the Inca Civilization Civilization, and People and Cultures of Peru, were my favorite classes. These were great because we went on many field trips and did more hands-on work. We got to visit archaeology sites around Cusco with our tourists tickets, which was so so cool. We completed a capstone and service-learning project for People and Cultures of Peru by aiding a local Indigenous Community in Peru. I just wish I knew about the capstone for that class beforehand, for the service learning component to the class could possibly open up a student's eligibility for more study abroad grants. I could have been eligible for a noncompetitive service learning grant so that I could have had more funds for the program. Anyways, I loved those classes. I do believe that because of the field trips and service-learning, both of Professor Chara's classes really were 60 credit hours instead of 45. My Spanish class, which was 45 credit hours too, did not take up nearly as much time and work as Professor Chara's class did. The cultural activities included in the program that had the greatest impact on me was Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. I know that the excursions during the Summer is different than during the semester, but I do recommend more sun excursions! My friend and I went on many trips outside of the program, such as going to Arequipa one weekend where we visited the Colca Canyon, watched Condors, went ziplining, river rafting, ATV driving, and more. That was so much fun. We also went to Lake Titicaca for a 1-day excursion, went to the sand dunes in Ica, went Pisco tasting, and more. We also separately went to Puerto Maldonado, which unfortunately was not included during the summer. I understand that there are time constraints, so this does make sense. But, I do feel that a note needs to be made on the website that Puerto Maldonado is not included for the summer because that is a little bit misleading. In general, I never really felt unsafe for myself during the program. I was worried about my things getting stolen. I unfortunately had my wallet stolen while on the public transportation (thankfully, it only had cash and coins). My brand new phone was stolen while I was asleep on an overnight bus, so I did have to go without a phone for the remaining 6 weeks of the program. The classes and professors at ISA were pretty good. For my Spanish class, the professor could have been more communicative about grades and receiving feedback. I have no idea what my grades were for Intermediate Spanish I; not all the grades were entered on Schoology for me to see. I have no idea what I made on the final exam for Summer I or Summer II. I at least asked to get our final back for Intermediate Spanish I, and she said she would give us our exams, but she never did. The non-Spanish classes could have been organized a bit better. Much of the time, the deadlines in Schoology were off (deadlines for certain assignments would say they were passed due over 1000 days ago, or something like that). I did enjoy the classes though. I would say that the History Class could arguable be archaeology too, because our exams were mainly centered around the name of certain artifacts in Quechua instead of actually testing us on the history and events that we learned about in class. I will never forget going river rafting! It was me and my friend's first time ever doing white water rafting, and it is one of the funnest (??) things I have ever done! I could not stop laughing the whole time, and the guide was very sweet. That definitely was an unforgettable moment. This whole trip made me feel so adventurous, and I am very thankful for that. The excursions had a way of drowning out some of the negative experiences we had and ultimately made everything worth it! I enjoyed studying abroad and making lifelong travel buddies so much this past summer.

Pictured: The ISA Cusco Summer I Group Visiting Machu Picchu on the best day! We visited during the dry season in early June, and it was so clear. I'm so happy for this experience. We visited the Sacred Valley the day before, both being excursions inPictured: Me and my best friend with our professor, Alberto, who taught us 2 classes: History of the Inca Civilization and People & Cultures of Peru. Alberto is a fun, unpredictable, and energetic professor who always kept us engaged during class. Al

My favorite experience ever!

December 21, 2024by: Jamie LaCourse - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Glasgow, Scotland with WorldStrides

4

Studying abroad in Glasgow, Scotland as an American student was truly a once in a lifetime experience. Living amongst other American ISA students allowed me to feel comfortable living in a new country as we were all going through the experience together. While my ISA roommates became my best friends, I also made friendships with other international students that lived in my building, were in my classes, and I met on campus international student events. I felt supported and welcomed as an international student by ISA staff, Glasgow staff, Scotland residents, and by my friends! The planned ISA activities showed me different Scottish culture traditions and beautiful destinations in Scotland. I also had so much freedom and free time to travel with the friends I made to other countries in europe. My ISA advisor helped my friends and I find affordable flights and rooming and made sure we were taken care of to travel safely. My ISA advisor became a friend to me who was always there to support me! Taking classes in a different country felt scary to me at first, but ultimately benefited me as I learned how to gauge a new style of learning! This experience taught me so much that I am forever grateful for! I plan to visit Scotland in the future and recommend a trip or study abroad experience to anywho who has the privilege of going.

Visiting the Scottish Highlands!

Best time ever!!

December 19, 2024by: Nicolas Banaitis - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Paris, France with WorldStrides

5

I had the chance to study abroad in Paris this past fall semester and I loved everything about it. I did not want to leave! With ISA, we were taken cared of and given the information we needed. All the students were able to partake in excursions the first couple weeks where we all made friends to ease into our new lives in France. I would not trade it for the world I had an amazing time!

Friends!

Eating, Exploring, and Earning Credits: My Study Abroad in Rome

December 19, 2024by: Jordyn Bailey - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Rome, Italy with WorldStrides

5

I have always dreamt of experiencing life abroad but never was set on a certain destination. When my friend who traveled abroad to Rome through ISA told me about her experience, I knew that this was the program for me. It was the ultimate combination of education, culture, and adventure that would provide me with everything I could imagine and more. I am still processing how much I learned, not just in the classroom but about myself, my passions, and the world around me. Here's my review of my unforgettable summer study abroad experience in Rome, Italy. The Program: Perfect Balance of Academics and Exploration ISA combined cultural immersion with academic coursework that allowed us to learn through exploring. The professors were incredible- experts in their fields, passionate about sharing Italy’s rich history, art, and work-life balance. I took International Business and Marketing in Italy. Both courses taught me the importance of family-owned businesses and prioritizing time away from work. I got to dive deep into different local companies, management systems, and the culture that which Italians do business. The best part was that this program was designed to allow us time to explore Rome and other parts of Italy while keeping up with coursework. In the mornings I had classes and by the afternoon I was walking through ancient Roman ruins or eating gelato in Piazza Navona. It felt like a field trip every day! The flexibility to travel to places like Florence, Tuscany, and Capri on the weekends through the program as well was priceless. ISA helped navigate us across Italy and provided us the space and time to explore it firsthand ourselves as well. Living in Rome: More than Just a Tourist Destination Living in Rome was everything I imagined and more. The city is a beautiful blend of ancient and modern, where you can grab coffee in a 200-year-old cafe, walk past 2000-year-old ruins, and hear the hum of scooters zipping by. My apartment was in a charming neighborhood in Trastevere, and I loved it. The cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and local trattorias were perfect for immersing myself in everyday Roman life. Almost every morning I would grab a cappuccino and pastry at Gran Caffe Carini. We became regulars here and they learned our names and started only charging us for a cornetto (croissant). Every evening, my friends and I would wander the streets, popping into boutique shops, soaking in the ambiance, and trying new restaurants. Of course, navigating a city like Rome could be overwhelming at times, but the program staff were incredibly supportive. They helped with everything from understanding the metro system to finding the best pizza spots (trust me, I tried many). The occasional language barrier was fun rather than frustrating – it was an opportunity to practice my Italian, which I found pretty easy to pick up after a few weeks. The Social Side: Making Lifelong Connections One of the best parts of my study abroad experience was meeting other students from all over the U.S. The program created a supportive community, and I made friends for life. We were placed in apartments with 5 other roommates, and I can say I have never become so close to a group of girls in my entire life. We did everything together and dreaded being separated. The program’s dynamic all together was great – we traveled together on weekends, explored different neighborhoods, and shared meals at local spots. We even had a wine-tasting excursion where we learned how to make traditional Roman wine (and, let me tell you, it was way better than anything I’d ever tasted at home!). I got to know people from various backgrounds and schools, and we all bonded over our shared love of Italy. Weekends were spent exploring places like Capri, the Colosseum, and the Trastevere district. I loved how easy it was to organize impromptu trips with new friends. Cultural Immersion: More Than Just Sights Rome isn’t just about sightseeing – it’s about feeling the pulse of the city and truly experiencing its culture. My time there allowed me to do that in ways I hadn’t expected. Every evening, I'd sit on our balcony, people-watching and listening to street musicians. I learned how to enjoy la dolce vita, savoring the simple joys of life, like a leisurely dinner at a family-owned trattoria or a sunset stroll through Villa Borghese Park. One of the highlights of my summer was a weekend trip to the Amalfi Coast. We stayed in the coastal town of Positano, where I spent the day lounging on the beach, and the evening walking through charming streets filled with lemon-scented shops and vibrant flowers. The beauty of Italy is truly unparalleled. Rome also taught me to slow down and appreciate the details. I loved visiting the Pantheon and the Colosseum, but I also spent hours getting lost in hidden corners of the city, stumbling upon quiet churches, picturesque piazzas, and tiny cafes where locals gathered. What I Learned: More Than Just Academics Of course, the academic part of the program was important, but the real value of studying abroad in Rome for me was in the experiences outside the classroom. I learned about Italian culture, history, and language in ways that textbooks could never replicate. I gained confidence in navigating a new city, interacting with locals, and embracing unfamiliar experiences. I also learned about myself – how I handle challenges, how to be independent, and how to push myself out of my comfort zone. It was empowering to see how much I could adapt to living in a foreign country and how deeply I could connect to a place that felt so different yet so welcoming. Final Thoughts: Worth Every Moment Looking back, my summer study abroad in Rome was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. It was a transformative experience that blended learning, adventure, culture, and personal growth. The friends I made, the memories I created, and the knowledge I gained will stay with me for the rest of my life. If you’re considering studying abroad, especially in Rome, my advice is: do it! Embrace every moment, dive into the culture, and don’t be afraid to get lost in the beauty of it all. I promise you’ll return with not just academic knowledge, but a lifetime of unforgettable memories. Rome, ti amo!

Casual evening out for dinner with my roommates in the Trastevere district which is filled with some of the best foods, drinks, and experiences in Rome!

An amazing experience I’ll never forget!

December 19, 2024by: Dylan Purka - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Auckland, New Zealand with WorldStrides

4

I had an amazing time in Auckland! We did a lot of cool trips as a group and it was great to have such a fun group of students to experience this with! My accommodations were only 3 minutes away from my building and I had amazing roommates from around the world! Overall, I got to meet a lot of locals and travel around the country. If I ever needed help figuring out travel plans, my advisor was always available to offer some advice! I even had my wisdom teeth removed which was completely covered under the travel insurance! The trip was amazing and I hope to go back to New Zealand soon.

Hiking the Tama Lakes track in Tongariro National Park
Dylan Purka video

A Love Letter to Sydney!

December 19, 2024by: Caroline Hutchinson - United States

Program: Study Abroad at University of Sydney with WorldStrides

4

After having a semester back at my home university, I have had ample time to reflect on my study abroad experience at the University of Sydney. In all honesty, I loved absolutely everything about my experience and truly have nothing but great words to speak about the university, the city, and the TEAN program I went with. The University of Sydney was a gorgeous campus, I loved each of my courses and professors, and met some local Aussie's which enhanced my experience even more! The city of Sydney always had something fun going on, from Lunar New Year to Vivid Sydney, and I found myself so happy to wander around at any free chance I had! I loved being in the city but also being so close to the beach AND the mountains, it truly was the perfect mix of everything I love. I always felt safe, and loved the ability to hop onto the many forms of public transportation to really make the most out of my Sydney exploration! I also cannot thank TEAN enough for the role they played in my experience. My orientation week in Cairns and visit to the Great Barrier Reef my first week in AUS was truly a once in a lifetime experience and something I will cherish forever. Throughout the semester, TEAN did a phenomenal job at hosting fun events to reconnect all of the students together and provided a lot of support! I would like to give a special thanks to Cate Chase for making my abroad experience with TEAN so great:) Lastly, my semester abroad in Australia allowed me to have the opportunity to travel to other countries closer than they would be in the U.S. I visited Fiji, New Zealand, Bali, Vietnam, and Thailand. I have so much gratitude for these experiences and will remember this semester abroad forever. Thank you TEAN and thank you Sydney, I will be back someday (hopefully very soon!!!).

The beautiful Sydney Harbour, I miss it every day!

Summer 2024 Changed My Life!

December 19, 2024by: Nakira Smith - United States

Program: Study Abroad at Korea University with WorldStrides

4

Everything about the summer study abroad program was truly life changing. I feel forever grateful that I got the opportunity to study abroad in a country i’ve always wanted to travel to and learn from. I would recommend anyone to do this program

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Saving Sydney one surf board at a time

December 19, 2024by: Ipek Turkay - Turkey

Program: Study Abroad in Sydney, Australia with WorldStrides

4

There’s a reason why they call Australia “down under.” As soon as I landed in Sydney, I got it—not just because it’s literally below everything on the map, but because everything here feels kinda upside down. The sun’s in the opposite part of the sky, the wildlife is straight-up wild (I still can’t believe kangaroos just chill in parks), people do not wear shoes outside (kinda weird ngl) and the Aussie slang has me confused half the time. But what really makes it "down under" is the laid-back vibe. Whether I’m wandering through The Rocks, hanging out at Bondi Beach, or catching a sunset at the Opera House, I’ve totally embraced the fact that life here is just a little more carefree- and a lot more adventurous. I’ll be honest, it’s nerve-wracking to travel to the opposite side of the world alone, especially when you don’t know anyone. But once you get here, it’s so worth it. I ended up meeting so many amazing people. We’d go out and hang all the time—went to music festivals in Melbourne, did a road trip in New Zealand, and even went bungy jumping, rafting, and hiking (which took 13 hours, so pro tip: wear good shoes). We went surfing, did yoga, checked out bars, and so much more. My program, TEAN, also set up activities like going to the Great Barrier Reef, touring the Opera House, and even giving us surfing lessons. Overall, if someone asked me what’s the best thing I’ve ever done, I’d probably say studying abroad. Take the risk—it’s totally worth it!

Rafting in NZSunset - bondi beachPiano bar in Byron Bay

Great Time!

December 19, 2024by: Ben Slama - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Christchurch, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

I had a great time in New Zealand!! Studying abroad in Christchurch was amazing and there are so many things to do within a short walk or bus ride. Absolutely amazing time hiking and taking advantage of the beautiful nature! Studying there was satisfying and I was able to learn so much!

Awesome semester

December 17, 2024by: Clara Martin - United States

Program: Study Abroad at University of Sydney with WorldStrides

4

My semester abroad was the best semester of college so far! The classes were challenging because the academics in Australia are very different, but the TEAN staff as well as USYD were very helpful in helping me with the learning curve. Sydney was such a fun city to live in and I had the time of my life!!!

The Experience of a Lifetime!

December 10, 2024by: Nicole Hart - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Valencia, Spain with WorldStrides

5

Amazing food, great nightlife, beautiful architecture, the Mediterranean Sea, and safe streets; Valencia has it all. Not only that, it was voted Europe's most eco-friendly city, has the largest aquarium in Europe, and was rated the #1 place in the WORLD to live for expats (people moving to a new city; that's what you'll be!). My friends and I say every day how grateful we are that we chose not only Valencia but also ISA to take this journey with. We made lifelong friends, but it was more like a family. Maria, Manu, and Francesco, our program directors, were there for all of us, at any hour, whenever we needed anything, to ensure that we had an advocate so far from home. I cannot stress enough how grateful I am for both ISA and Valencia; I have had the experience of a lifetime. Do yourself a favor and join this program; I promise you won't regret it!

Bilbao: The Beating Heart of Basque Culture

December 10, 2024by: Gwenyth Morgan - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Bilbao, Spain with WorldStrides

4

Studying abroad in Bilbao was more than an academic opportunity—it was a transformative experience of the vibrancy of Basque culture. Having previously studied in Salamanca, Madrid, and Toledo, I expected familiarity, but Bilbao offered something unique. With its seamless blend of tradition and modernity, the city embodies a cultural heartbeat that pulses proudly through every aspect of life here. What set this program apart was the care and passion of our program leader, Genoveva Garcia Gallardo. She curated engaging excursions across the Basque Country and beyond, creating an experience that went far beyond the classroom. Classes in the Basque language bridged former cultural gaps, providing insight into Bilbao’s identity, a proud Basque identity that stands apart from Spanish or French influences. Bilbao’s charm lies in simplicity and authenticity. From frequent visits to the Guggenheim Museum to strolling the historic streets of Casco Viejo while enjoying pintxos, the city’s vibrant soul is undeniable. While some might see its location as a limitation for international travel, I found it an invitation to fully embrace the lush green landscapes of the Basque Country. Day trips to San Sebastián or hikes to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe revealed a region bubbling with beauty and tradition. The warmth of my host family and Genovava’s emphasis on community fostered an unforgettable experience. Though the academics at the University of Deusto were not as rigorous as desired, the cultural richness and environment more than compensated. Bilbao doesn’t teach; it transforms. Walking past the Guggenheim every day for three months was a privilege, but the real gift was a deeper understanding of Basque culture. If you’re considering studying abroad, choose the road less traveled. In Bilbao, you’ll discover the beating heart of a people, a culture, and a city like no other.

Me in the lovely Guggenheim Museum of Bilbao! Arguably the heartbeat of the city!

ISA Madrid 2024

December 10, 2024by: Elise Tsai - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Madrid, Spain with WorldStrides

5

Doing ISA Madrid was the most life-changing experience. This same time one year ago, I was debating going abroad, weighing all the pros and cons. I impulsively decided to apply to Madrid, and I'm so happy I did. ISA does an amazing job transitioning everyone into a new environment, hosting activities that promote cultural learning and creating a sense of community for the students. Throughout the year, they were always extremely helpful with travel plans, urgent questions, etc. I tried to do as many cultural activities as possible - my favorite being the group trip to Granada where we got to explore the Alhambra - and felt immersed in the Spanish culture. I have had such an amazing abroad experience, and that's all thanks to ISA and the employees. If you're debating whether you want to do study abroad, this is your sign to just do it. I could not have imagined not coming to Madrid, and I would 10/10 recommend the ISA program.

Experience I will NEVER forget

December 05, 2024by: Bailey Defoor - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Auckland, New Zealand with WorldStrides

4

My time in Auckland was sureal and it's something I will never forget. TEAN was very helpful in finding accommodations, and my RA was easy to talk to whenever I needed help. She planned fun excursions, and most of these excursions ended up being my favorite things during the entire semester. We went to Queenstown for orientation, and Cathedral Cove as the semester started to close. We also had lunch dates, coffee catch-ups, and comedy nights. My RA was also very straight forward in this being "an edu-cation experience as much as it is a va-cation experience" and that stuck with me. I may have focused more on my academics than having fun, but the classes I took genually interest me, so I was having fun while studying. Overall, this was a great experience, and I could not have done it without TEAN! Enjoy this picture I took with other study abroad students who were chosen to be apart of a promotional photoshoot for UOA (I'm the one in the green shirt with a snake).

Enjoy this picture I took with other study abroad students who were chosen to be apart of a promotional photoshoot for UOA (I'm the one in the green shirt with a snake).

What a wonderful journey

December 03, 2024by: Mary Sass - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Dunedin, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

For our program, we had an orientation held in Queenstown, New Zealand where we had an abundance of adventure activities and did a deep dive into the culture of Māori. TEAN helped each and every one of us grow accustomed to the country and helped us learn how to best navigate our study abroad experience. Throughout the semester we were able to take trips provided by the program with our very helpful Dunedin advisor Dee. Dee acted as our New Zealand mom and was there for us through thick and thin.

Our 2024 New Zealand group after learning the Māori Haka.

The Best Summer Ever

December 02, 2024by: Betty Kyei - Ghana

Program: Study Abroad in Seoul, South Korea with WorldStrides

4

I had the best summer studying Abroad at Hanyang University through TEAN. I met excellent students from across the US who participated, and they made my experience wholesome. I never felt alone since I had kept company with them. Also, the onsite team were amazing. Euisoo, Hwang, and Chan ensured that we lacked nothing. They were a text away and supported us throughout the program. They also sent out any weather notices or alerts, which I found super helpful. TEAN and Hanyang University's immersive cultural activities allowed me to engage with Korea's traditions and lifestyle. The highlight of my study abroad experience was my classes. I took a "Studies of Korean Society and Culture" class, and I encourage anyone studying at Hanyang University to enroll in this course. It was very insightful; there were lectures and discussions of ancient and modern Korea, among other topics. It allowed me to view Korea objectively and understand why things worked as they did. Also, I loved getting crafty in my ceramics class. That was fun. I am grateful to TEAN for the best summer ever.

LOVE LOVE LOVE

October 24, 2024by: Amanda Marquez - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Rome, Italy with WorldStrides

5

I loved my experience studying abroad in Rome! I met amazing people and got to see so much of Italy during my time. I have been dreaming of studying abroad for as long as I could remember and studying with ISA helped me achieve this dream!! I would recommend this program to anyone!

I LOVE ROMA

October 03, 2024by: Reilly Dunne - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Rome, Italy with WorldStrides

4

I absolutely loved my time abroad in Rome, Italy with ISA. I went in Spring 2024 and was pleased by the weather, cuisine, and attractions Rome had to offer. Rome is a city like no other with a vast range of activities to do and neighborhoods to explore. I never found myself bored and was able to travel to 12 countries throughout my semester abroad. I found traveling out of Rome to be affordable and relatively easy which I loved. I attended The American University of Rome, which was incredible and enhanced my film studies scholars. Both the professors and staff were very accommodating and offered resources whenever I needed support. ISA was extremely helpful in my immersion to living abroad and I formed close relationships with the staff that helped eliminate feelings of homesickness. I would highly recommend studying abroad in Rome with ISA!!

Petting goats in Capri, Italy during our ISA field tripVisiting Venice, Italy with my familyHiking in Portugal with my best friend from home who studied abroad in Lisbon!
Reilly Dunne video

Best Semester Ever!

October 02, 2024by: Kate Levine - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Paris, France with WorldStrides

5

Picture this: sipping espresso at a quaint café, discussing global marketing with classmates from 80+ countries, the Eiffel Tower in view. This was my incredible semester at the American Business School of Paris with ISA! ISA's program exceeded all expectations. Their on-site staff provided excellent support, from orientation to ongoing advice. I was placed in a homestay in a beautiful Parisian neighborhood, enhancing my cultural immersion. The academic experience was rewarding, with English-taught classes offering unique perspectives on business. ISA's cultural excursions were a highlight, from Louvre tours to weekend trips across France. These pre-arranged events made exploring accessible and fostered connections with other ISA students. Choosing ISA was one of my best decisions. They transformed a potentially overwhelming experience into an unforgettable adventure. For anyone considering studying abroad in Paris, I wholeheartedly recommend ISA. They ensure a safe, educational, and life-changing experience that goes beyond just academics. Thanks to ISA, I've gained knowledge, experiences, and memories that will last a lifetime!

A Semester in Florence

October 02, 2024by: Ella Prial - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Florence, Italy with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad in Florence with ISA was the best decision of my life. Being able to live in a new country and learn about a completely different culture and way of life is a once in a lifetime opportunity. There is no better way to learn than being able to learn through experiences. During the semester I was abroad, I was able to travel all throughout Italy as well as to many other countries all over Europe. Because of this program, I was able to meet some of my best friends and make many amazing memories. Through my time there, Florence truly became a second home, and I can't wait until I am able to be there again!

FlorenceVeniceSorrento

The only thing that made me homesick was the food, but now I just wanna go back

October 02, 2024by: Hannah Liske - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Rome, Italy with WorldStrides

5

I studied in Rome for 2 months and loved it all. One of the first things I learned was that when they say Italians stick to pasta and pizza, they really mean it. I found that within a couple weeks I was just begging for a hotdog and luckily found a pizzeria across the street that when they had Wurstle pizza on the menu, they somehow meant cut up hotdogs on their pizzas. It gave me the perfect amount of home that I was missing and truly made my stay perfect. I was studying what I loved, I was making some of the best friends ever and I had a once in a lifetime experience I couldn't get enough of. I think of my time in Italy everyday and miss it with my whole heart.

me on a weekend excursion with isa to Florence

What an AMAZING experience & program!

October 01, 2024by: Anna Speeney - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Granada, Spain with WorldStrides

4

I spent five months abroad in Granada, Spain, during the Spring semester of 2024. I lived with a host mother, and two other roommates from my university. There are so many positive things I can say about this program and my time. To start, ISA is such a wonderful organization that I highly recommend traveling through. They were so helpful with everything from getting my Visa, to the on site staff in Granada, and my return to home. They have everything organized in easy to locate places, and communication was always clear. I chose to study in Spain for the language. I am a Spanish minor, and have always loved Spanish and had a goal of becoming fluent. All of my classes in Spain were in Spanish (however, I had some friends whose classes were in English, it just depends on your language level :) and my host Mom didn't speak any English. Both of these components aided in mastering my fluency in Spanish, which I will be forever grateful for. My trip included excursions, which were amazing. My favorite excursion was my trip to Morocco. The Sahara Desert and cities of Fez and Meknes created so many memories for me that I will cherish forever. There are so many amazing aspects that ISA and studying abroad has to offer, and I would HIGHLY recommend you check them out!

My friends and I in front of the Alhambra in Granada.

A time like no other!

September 21, 2024by: Sarah Hardin - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Dunedin, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

Going overseas to study in New Zealand was probably one of the best decisions of my life. Not only did I get to meet people from all over the world, but I was allowed to expand my worldview and learn what life looks like outside of the United States. I have so many incredible memories from this journey that pushed me out of my comfort zone and forced me to adapt to new surroundings - I wouldn't change anything about my time abroad! Anyone on the fence about studying abroad should choose not just for the time you travel the world, but for the time you get to find out who you are.

Hooker Valley Track, Mt Cook National Park

The best thing I've ever experienced

September 20, 2024by: Alexa DeCamp - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Barcelona, Spain with WorldStrides

4

At first I was so scared to study abroad because I was alone but I never think for a second that I regret my experience. I overcame the challenge of having to be independent in a country where I do not speak the language. I felt so much peace and happiness during my stay and wish everyday I were back there. I saw myself grow as a person and become more confident everyday. The locals would encourage us to dance with them and everyone is truly happy there. If you are thinking about doing it, DO IT!

My Study Abroad Experience!

September 19, 2024by: Melany Lora - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Salamanca, Spain with WorldStrides

5

During my time in Salamanca I had the best time. I have always been a city girl but knowing that I would walk everywhere, I was searching for a city where everything I needed was at walking distance. Salamanca was the perfect middle ground for that. I got to experience the city life without needing to travel miles across town for the best restaurants and cafes. I lived in a "residencia" with other students from other programs who were also studying abroad or were students that were studying their full college career in Salamanca. Salamanca was a city I feel in love with because of the history, the culture and the people. I enjoyed exploring new corners of the city center, expanding and challenging my Spanish speaking skills, shopping and building new friendships!

Best Decision ever made: Year in Seville with ISA

September 18, 2024by: Taylor Clark - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

5

I spent my junior year abroad with ISA. While in Seville, I took the 2-Week intensive course at the ISA study center, and two semesters at the Universidad de Sevilla. The intensive course at ISA was rigorous, but worth it. The professor was incredible, and arriving two-weeks early gave me extra time to acclimate with the city of Seville and make new friends. When starting at the University of Seville, I studied under professors that were flexible with our language abilities. My classmates were all American, so I made great friendships that I have kept to this day. For housing, I spent the first semester in a host family, and the second semester in the ISA residencia. I am grateful to have lived in a host family first semester, as it paid huge dividends in my speaking abilities and was convenient for meals. However, living at the residencia was at times more comfortable and allowed for more connection with other students. I would recommend any abroad student to stay in a host family if they only have one semester! I would recommend Seville over just about any other city in Spain, as it is an extremely safe, tight-knight community. The streets are steeped in culture, and the nightlife is unmatched. I miss it daily!

A Supported & Professional Experience

September 18, 2024by: Dallas Johnson - United States

Program: Intern Abroad in New Zealand with WorldStrides

4

As a graduate student of social work and pastoral ministry with interests in community development, I researched a number of internship placements in a number of international settings. I soon found ISA/TEAN's wide array of opportunities. After some initial applications, their admission staff connected me with their Service-Learning program which allowed me to specialize in nonprofit work. What particularly struck me about ISA's programs in general was the amount of logistical support they lent me leading up to, during, and after my internship program. ISA/TEAN has a friendly, caring staff across the globe ready to support students. Through organized conversations, Zoom meetings, and micro-credential courses, ISA/TEAN gave me ample opportunities to reflect on my experience abroad—allowing me to approach my experience intentionally and informatively.

Hiking the escarpment between Paekākāriki and Pukeura Bay

TEAN South Korea Review

September 18, 2024by: James Webster - United States

Program: Study Abroad at Korea University with WorldStrides

5

I studied abroad in Seoul, South Korea with TEAN and wish I could do it all over again. The TEAN staff made the process of obtaining my required documents and entry into the country much easier than I had anticipated, and when I had difficulty with course registration at the beginning of my semester, the TEAN staff was able to help me by speaking to the university, and the university made exceptions for me which was almost unheard of. TEAN also included activities and excursions, and gave students plenty of opportunities to meet other students and make friends. I loved being in South Korea. The food was delicious and affordable, the public transportation was very clean and convenient, the people were very polite and welcoming, and the city overall was beautiful and fun to explore. I would highly recommend visiting Seoul, and I would recommend doing so with TEAN.

Best Experience Ever!

September 17, 2024by: Grace Leslie - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Buenos Aires, Argentina with WorldStrides

4

I had the most transformative 5 months of my life while living in Buenos Aires, Argentina! I was able to meet so many amazing people, travel, improve my language skills, and learn and live in a new culture.

THE Place to Go!!

September 16, 2024by: Anaston Gaerlan - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Valencia, Spain with WorldStrides

4

Valencia was an amazing city to study abroad in. It truly is so easy to navigate, and you have the chance to immerse yourself in a culture immediately. There are always random festivals to go check out, and there are many international students. There are many opportunities where you can practice your Spanish with people at coffee shops or even meet people from different countries! A great city overall! Additionally, the airport is convenient to get to when going on those international trips! :)

Las Fallas!Fireworks in Las Fallas!Yummy Paella
Anaston Gaerlan video

Four Weeks in Singapore

September 15, 2024by: Abby Le - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Singapore with WorldStrides

5

I had a wonderful time studying abroad in Singapore. It was first time out of the country and I knew I would be doing it alone so I wanted to go somewhere for a short amount of time and was safe for travellers. Luckily Summer in Singapore 2024 was available and I would love to go back one day. It's a diverse country with many foreigners coming and going. There were many cultures to be immersed in beyond Singaporean culture. I met some amazing people and I am very grateful for this opportunity.

Madrid is IT!

September 12, 2024by: Grayce Kurtz - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Madrid, Spain with WorldStrides

5

I had such a great time studying abroad in Madrid and I made memories I'll never forget. With the help of ISA staff and resources, my semester abroad went smoothly. Would highly recommend this program.

Madrid will forever have my heart.

September 11, 2024by: Caitlyn Mayes - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Madrid, Spain with WorldStrides

4

I was so incredibly nervous to try something new, and studying in a foreign country is about as "new" as you can get. I worked so hard to be able to enjoy my time in Madrid, and it was the best decision I have ever made. I got to travel to a different country or city in Spain every weekend because of my class schedule. My classes weren't incredibly stressful and the professors were lovely. It was so interesting to be taught by a person from outside of the US and to learn outside perspectives as well. I had a lovely apartment in the center of Madrid. I had 10 roommates, some from America, some from Spain, and even from Puerto Rico, but they were all students and it was so much fun living with other young people from different places. The food was remarkable and I would honestly chop off my right arm in order to have some again right now. The support I got from ISA was unbelievable. I had to go to the hospital once for a general problem/sickness and ask for the address from ISA, but Carlos from the ISA Madrid office followed up with me for a few days following my visit and truly cared about how I was doing. It made my experience that much more wonderful and made me feel so much more safe than I already had. ISA also had so many tours, trips, and fun activities that were included in the program's initial price and were well planned and executed. I was so blown away by all the experiences I got to have with them; I know if I had chosen a different program I wouldn't have gotten the same opportunities. I have made lifelong friends and memories that I will never forget. ISA is the program you should go with if you are deciding between two different programs, they'll take care of you.

Spring Semester in Gold Coast, Australia

September 11, 2024by: Samantha Mealey - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

4

I went abroad to Gold Coast, Australia in spring of 2024, and I had the absolute best time. I saw new animals (lots of kangaroos!!) and visited all new places. I got to travel throughout Australia, and I even made it to parts of Asia and New Zealand which were amazing. I met amazing people from all different backgrounds and made some lifelong friends. The places that I got to travel to were absolutely breathtaking. And the beaches on the Gold Coast were unreal. If you are planning on going abroad, TEAN is a great program to go through! They are super supportive, and will help you all throughout the process. Overall, I cannot recommend going abroad enough!

Time of My Life

September 11, 2024by: Zoé Rigoulot - France

Program: Study Abroad in Seoul, South Korea with WorldStrides

5

Honestly an amazing experience that I can probably say was one of the best eras of my life so far. I got to go to a country I was interested in, meet incredible people that I will probably keep in touch with for a long time, do countless activities all of that while I took classes that were key to my college graduation. I was a little worried about having to figure it all out myself, but I was honestly incredibly thankful to the staff on and off site who were all so nice and helpful. The activities offered are also really great, it really helped to be guided for the first couple of days in a country so far from home where it is easy to get overwhelmed by all there is to do and explore. Korea was very welcoming, even when people do not speak English, and if you don't speak Korea, most of the time they try to help as best as they can. There is also so much to do that is easily accessible; pop up stores in Seongsu, idol birthday cafes in Hongdae, hiking up countless mountains, exploring palaces and older traditional neighborhoods... I feel like there are options for a wide range of people and interests.

Amazing time in Paris

September 10, 2024by: Grace Cull - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Paris, France with WorldStrides

4

Studying abroad with ISA was the best thing I ever did for myself! I had so much fun and got to meet so many amazing people, all while furthering my education. My classes were interesting and developmental, but still allowed me plenty of time to explore the city and travel to many other countries. The ISA staff was so helpful whenever I needed answers to questions or simply just support in stressful times. I miss my program directors already! Doing this program helped me to grow so much as a person through so many new experiences. Cultural immersion is an invaluable form of education that can’t quite be replicated in a classroom. I wish I could study abroad over and over again!

ISA students in Paris, France

life-changing, ridiculously engaging experience

September 10, 2024by: Zayna Abdel-Rahim - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Meknes, Morocco with WorldStrides

5

as a student of Arabic and International Relations, I was admittedly skeptical of the quality of the program before I went abroad, having experienced a less-than-ideal study abroad the prior summer, but this program has permanently changed my life for the better. From the distinguished and loving faculty to the hard-working staff, I felt like I was not only accomplishing my goals of learning IR, Arabic, and about Morocco, but I was being taken care of. I would highly recommend doing this specific study abroad, but really any ISA program as they've gained both my love and respect.

No Regrets!

September 09, 2024by: Isabelle Ours - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Granada, Spain with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad in Granada was one of the best decisions I have made in my life! The program was very organized and the staff were always so nice and helpful. The excursions included in the program were enjoyable and increased my understanding of Spanish history and culture. Throughout the semester I was able to connect and create life-long memories with other students, while also becoming more independent. Granada is such a beautiful city with amazing people and plenty to do! I have absolutely no regrets about going abroad!

Supportive Staff

September 08, 2024by: Marvic Cardenas-Gallegos - United States

Program: Study Abroad at Korea University with WorldStrides

5

The program's staff was very supportive before and throughout my entire study abroad trip. When applying for the program, I would send an email and they would respond right away on any questions regarding the application process. While in Korea, the staff was very friendly and willing to help me out when I had any questions or needed their assistance, they consistently made themselves available and supported me throughout my study abroad experience. They organized many activities and it was evident that every staff member was genuinely eager about connecting and engaging with the students.

Amazing Experience

September 07, 2024by: Jake Brosnan - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Barcelona, Spain with WorldStrides

4

Studying abroad even for only 3 weeks with ISA was such a good experience. I was able to see so many sights in Barcelona and meet some amazing people. The program offered a trip to Valencia and Peñíscola that was included in the price of the program which was an unexpected surprise. I ate the most delicious food and had the best time on my trip to Barcelona with ISA.

My study abroad experience in Salamanca, Spain

September 06, 2024by: Katelyn Derivolkov - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Salamanca, Spain with WorldStrides

5

Before I studied abroad, I didn’t really understand why everyone who had before loved it so much. My 2 week program took place in Salamanca, Spain and I stayed with a home stay. I absolutely loved the city; it was safe, beautiful, clean, full of history, and overall incredible. The ISA staff on site was so incredibly helpful with everything, and my host abuela was so welcoming and loving. I had not a single complaint throughout the whole program. Now I really understand why students love studying abroad!

Best decision ever!!

September 06, 2024by: Ashley Lopez - United States

Program: Study Abroad at University of Sydney with WorldStrides

4

Studying in Sydney at USYD was the best decision I could've made. Australia is one of those regions where you need a good amount of time rather than a 2-week vacation where you can plan a mid-semester break to New Zealand or a weekend trip down in Tasmania. We were placed in a great and safe part of the city which is on the outskirts of the CBD, but also near a shopping centre and 10-minute walk to campus. It is such a vibrant, multicultural, and touristy city that you'll never run out of things to do. While the courses at the insanely beautiful University of Sydney's campus are pretty vigorous, the professors, TAs, and students are kind enough to help and many resources are there to help. There are countless ways to get involved on campus with a diverse array of clubs such as the Chocolate Society, book club, bushwalkers, and societies appropriate for your studies.

The Quad on a cloud day.

Life long memories!

September 05, 2024by: Allison Geszvain - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Chile with WorldStrides

4

Although I only participated in the 4-week intensive month program, I will always remember the lessons I learned, memories, and friends I made during my time in Viña del Mar and Valparaiso. I lived with a host family in Viña, and they were the best! They made me feel like part of the family and included me in all of their family gatherings. I learned so much about Chilean lifestyle and made great connections by living with the family. My Spanish proficiency improved greatly in the short time I was there through the intensive classes and everyday practice with family and friends. After my program, I was lucky enough to explore the Patagonia region of Chile and Argentina, and it is my favorite place I have ever visited. I would go back to Chile in a heartbeat, and definitely plan to return in my lifetime. The hospitality and kindness of the people that live there combined with the breathtaking natural beauty make Chile an easy choice for a study abroad location!

Study Abroad made my dreams come true!

September 05, 2024by: Lily Ratliff - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Lille, France with WorldStrides

5

I studied abroad in Lille, France for one month. Going to France was a dream of mine since I was a child. ISA allowed me to achieve this dream while guiding me every step of the way. ISA helped a lot with the anxiety and many things to do when going abroad. In Lille, I got to immerse myself in French language and culture everyday. I was able to learn so much about the history of the area and the culture by just being there, but also through guided tours, and one of my courses called World Class Museums. I also had a French language course that positively challenged me, and immersing myself in the language everyday, both made my French language skills so much better!

In Lille´s city centerThe Cathedral of Our Lady in Antwerp, BelgiumThe Eiffel Tower at night, seen from the Seine River

Nothing can top this program!

September 04, 2024by: Abdul Bouhali - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Meknes, Morocco with WorldStrides

5

In my month program abroad for the summer, I enjoyed every day. Although a single class is 3 hours, there is still flexibility as in having a 4 day school week. Nothing bad could be said about the program, and comfort/safety was not a concern. I really enjoyed the excursions every weekend, and how all the students would be together on the bus chatting or taking pictures of the beautiful scenery all around Morocco. There is way more to say about the program, but I can happily say I've had no regrets as I had my own freedom along with going out with other students.

Merzouga trip on the free weekend, we learned a lot of culture around the natives (Saharan Berbers).

Not worth the money

September 03, 2024by: Alexia Donnelly - United States

Program: Intern Abroad in Dublin, Ireland with WorldStrides

3

I did my internship in Dublin, Ireland. My internship was supposed to be physical therapy related and I quickly learned that they mostly do massage as physical therapy. I thought I would learn more about exercise prescription and quickly lost interest in observations. I have already gone through massage school and realized prior to this experience that I did not want to do massage. This is why I never got my license. My supervisor said she would teach me more and show me more and never did. Then wanted to lecture me on professionalism when on the first day I met her she wanted to complain about a employee at the clinic and tell me all about the beef she had with them. Once she finally fired said employee, she gloated about it to the other employees and I thought it was very unprofessional. I enjoyed Ireland for the most part, but I did have my phone stolen. I acknowledge that was my fault, however, when I tried to get in touch with ISA's mental health services I struggled to do so. I just had to deal with it all on my own for the most part. Also pay attention to the list of things that will be provided, because on this list there is no mention of your first roll of toilet paper or anything and if the first thing you have to do when you get to your housing is go to the restroom, you might be up a creek with out a paddle.

Giant's Causeway in Northern Ireland.

Have your ducks in a row before you go!

August 30, 2024by: Kelly Garcia - United States

Program: Study Abroad in London, England with WorldStrides

4

Studying abroad was an exhilarating and eye-opening experience. It brought on many trials, but I am proud of overcoming my hesitations and facing them head-on. I benefitted from international travel by learning to become more independent and self-reliant. I’ve commuted to college every year, so it was my first time living away from home. It challenged me to be more decisive and outgoing. Because of this, I made great relationships and became more self-assured. Even navigating public transportation helped me to be more vigilant and mindful. Although I saw significant self-improvement, other aspects caused some difficulties. Before going to London, I had frequent contact with ISA to ensure I would have consistent therapy and someone to administer my allergy shots. I was confident and felt at ease knowing there would be support for my mental health and physical health. However, there were complications with my therapy and shots, which hindered me from receiving treatment until the end of the semester. Ultimately, I advise incoming study abroad students to ensure specific measures are in place before traveling to their designated country. Hence, they are guaranteed support for their mental and physical health. Despite these setbacks, I am thankful for my experience studying abroad and the chance to live in London. The city is full of activities and opportunities, so I encourage students to fully immerse themselves in the culture and meet people from different backgrounds. It broadens your perspective and truly changes your life!

Westminster Palace and Big BenPeter Pan Afternoon Tea at Aqua Shardconcert in an indoor venue

Study Abroad Kingston University

August 30, 2024by: Emma Troise - United States

Program: Study Abroad in London, England with WorldStrides

5

ISA was an amazing program which made my transition easy and smooth! I loved my time in London studying at Kingston University. The program offered so many amazing day trips, and great traveling tips! I will always remember my time with ISA and in London!

Have your ducks in a row before you go!

August 30, 2024by: Kelly Garcia - United States

Program: Study Abroad in London, England with WorldStrides

4

Studying abroad was an exhilarating and eye-opening experience. It brought on many trials, but I am proud of overcoming my hesitations and facing them head-on. I benefitted from international travel by learning to become more independent and self-reliant. I’ve commuted to college every year, so it was my first time living away from home. It challenged me to be more decisive and outgoing. Because of this, I made great relationships and became more self-assured. Even navigating public transportation helped me to be more vigilant and mindful. Although I saw significant self-improvement, other aspects caused some difficulties. Before going to London, I had frequent contact with ISA to ensure I would have consistent therapy and someone to administer my allergy shots. I was confident and felt at ease knowing there would be support for my mental health and physical health. However, there were complications with my therapy and shots, which hindered me from receiving treatment until the end of the semester. Ultimately, I advise incoming study abroad students to ensure specific measures are in place before traveling to their designated country. Hence, they are guaranteed support for their mental and physical health. Despite these setbacks, I am thankful for my experience studying abroad and the chance to live in London. The city is full of activities and opportunities, so I encourage students to fully immerse themselves in the culture and meet people from different backgrounds. It broadens your perspective and truly changes your life!

Westminster Palace and Big BenPeter Pan Afternoon Tea at Aqua ShardGUTS Tour at the O2!

Stupidly Perfect

August 30, 2024by: Tucker Wolf - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Granada, Spain with WorldStrides

5

Words don't do it justice. Life-changing. Truly. I feel like I am an entirely different person from who I was before studying abroad. It was perfect down to every last detail. To be honest I didn't even do any extensive research on Granada or the program prior to going, I just was sure that I wanted to study abroad somewhere. In fact, not a single other person from my university was going to Granada, so I knew zero people going into the program. Naturally, I tend to go quiet in social situations, so I knew this new environment could be a challenge. Instead of falling into my old ways, I made a daily effort to push myself to meet new people and be more gregarious. This was the root of my growth, and it was massively facilitated by the staff of ISA Granada. Not only were my hosts passionate and welcoming, but the ISA staff organized dozens of events to help involve us students. The three coordinators, Angel, Marisa, and Lorena, made it abundantly clear to us that not only were they there for our every need, but they really cared about us individually. They were curious to hear how we were enjoying our experience and keen to suggest ideas for us based on our interests. My school held a pre-study abroad conference in the winter before I left, and when one of the coordinators asked me where I was going and who I was studying abroad through, the response was incredible. I told her ISA Granada, and her face lit up with excitement for me. She was elated to tell me how amazing ISA was and how much I had to look forward to. She did not exaggerate in the slightest. I hope that this review can serve to others as she did to me, encouraging you to study abroad with ISA, and be excited to do so. You will be so happy you did.

people sitting on a ski lift

Have your ducks in a row before you go!

August 30, 2024by: Kellyg0225

Program: Study Abroad in London, England with WorldStrides

4

Studying abroad was an exhilarating and eye-opening experience. It brought on many trials, but I am proud of overcoming my hesitations and facing them head-on. I benefitted from international travel by learning to become more independent and self-reliant. I’ve commuted to college every year, so it was my first time living away from home. It challenged me to be more decisive and outgoing. Because of this, I made great relationships and became more self-assured. Even navigating public transportation helped me to be more vigilant and mindful. Although I saw significant self-improvement, other aspects caused some difficulties. Before going to London, I had frequent contact with ISA to ensure I would have consistent therapy and someone to administer my allergy shots. I was confident and felt at ease knowing there would be support for my mental health and physical health. However, there were complications with my therapy and shots, which hindered me from receiving treatment until the end of the semester. Ultimately, I advise incoming study abroad students to ensure specific measures are in place before traveling to their designated country. Hence, they are guaranteed support for their mental and physical health. Despite these setbacks, I am thankful for my experience studying abroad and the chance to live in London. The city is full of activities and opportunities, so I encourage students to fully immerse themselves in the culture and meet people from different backgrounds. It broadens your perspective and truly changes your life!

An opportunity of a lifetime

August 29, 2024by: Jordan Aparece - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Rome, Italy with WorldStrides

5

Initially, I was hesitant to go abroad, as I had never traveled to Europe and I knew nobody in the program I applied to. However, I knew it was something that would offer so many experiences, opportunities, and memories, that I could not pass up on it. The 4.5 weeks I spent there were the best weeks I have spent as a student, and in my life. The experiences I got in culture, food, travel were unmatched. Whether it is a spring break term or a full semester, I would encourage any student to study abroad.

I had an incredible experience in Auckland!

August 29, 2024by: Lea Luetjens - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Auckland, New Zealand with WorldStrides

4

New Zealand honestly exceeded my expectations. The country in itself is BEAUTIFUL. Auckland is obviously more of a city, but it's on the water and has lots of parks so you still feel close to nature! Getting to other parts of the country is really simple, with plenty of cheap flights and busses. I really enjoyed the housing accommodation, living apartment style with two other flatmates. The University of Auckland campus is nice as well, very blended into the city but still with a campus feel. Auckland has a lot of good food with a wide variety. I really enjoyed how easily we could walk downtown and find new cafes and restaurants!

From Flyers to Fulfillment: My Transformative Summer in Costa Rica

August 27, 2024by: Estrella Rivera - United States

Program: Study Abroad in San Jose, Costa Rica with WorldStrides

4

This summer, I had the privilege of studying abroad and participating in a service-learning program through International Studies Abroad by WorldStrides. As a first-generation student, studying abroad was never something I had seriously considered, nor did I see it as an option in my academic career. However, after stumbling across a flyer on my university campus, I knew I wanted to explore the opportunity. I had the chance to study in San José, Costa Rica, from June to July. As a civil engineering and Spanish major, I wanted to enhance my professional skills and expand my network, which is why I chose Costa Rica. I enrolled in a Spanish course at Universidad Veritas, which was unlike any course I had taken back in the U.S. Instead of traditional exams, the course focused on research presentations, essays, and discussions. The knowledge we gained in class was reflected in our essays and presentations, which replaced the need for exams. I would definitely encourage any prospective student who is uncertain about studying abroad to take the leap. The staff and students at Universidad Veritas were welcoming and supportive, creating a positive atmosphere throughout the campus. ISA offered amazing excursions that deepened my understanding of Costa Rica's culture and geographical landscape. The ISA guides and tour leaders were incredible, teaching us about the history, traditional dishes, plants, animals, and more. Every excursion was a fun learning experience and a chance to capture hundreds of beautiful photos. My host family truly made me feel at home. They were the kindest, sweetest people I have ever met and ensured that my roommates and I felt comfortable and safe every single day. They were thoughtful about our meals, often asking for our breakfast and dinner preferences, and even bought us our favorite seasonal fruits. My host mom exceeded all my expectations, and she became an important part of my experience. Not only did I meet amazing people, visit beautiful places, and try delicious food, but I also experienced significant personal growth. By the end of the trip, I realized I had become more independent and confident, even planning solo trips without feeling like an outsider. Self-discovery was an unexpected but valuable aspect of my study abroad experience. If you're considering studying abroad but are unsure, this is your sign to go for it. The program coordinators in Costa Rica were some of the sweetest and most supportive people I have ever encountered.

Estadio Nacional de Costa Ricapeople in karaoke bar

Best experience ever

August 27, 2024by: Zulemy Santos

Program: Study Abroad in Buenos Aires, Argentina with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad in Buenos Aires, Argentina, was the most rewarding experience I've ever had. As a biology major on a pre-med track, I chose this program because it offered the unique opportunity to gain clinical hours while also learning medical Spanish terminology. This experience has been incredibly beneficial for my future career. The doctors and professors were exceptionally welcoming and supportive, making the program even more amazing.

A wonderful time!

August 26, 2024by: Yulisa Gramajo-Gomez - United States

Program: Study Abroad at Korea University with WorldStrides

3

Traveling to South Korea has been a great experience. There is a lot to do in South Korea. I was able to do a lot with the help of the subway station. It was new to me because where I am from it is very different so it took me a while to get used to it and I was able to understand it with an app called Navar Map. There would be times I gotten homesick so I would call my parents and I would also hang out with a friend who is experiencing the same thing.

Wonderful time in the UK!??

August 22, 2024by: Jamie Gmable - United States

Program: Study Abroad in London, England with WorldStrides

4

It was a great study abroad experience for anyone whose interested in going to the UK to pursue their education. Nice weather, good Turkish, chicken shops and convenient stores to buy essentials. Exploring the multiple sites that the UK has to offer and meet a lot of great people and made some connections. Using public transportations like the underground tube, double decker busses, riding Lime bikes around the city and walking around the area. Overall, I really enjoy spending time in the country and hope to explore outside of London, besides Brighton and Windsor Castle.

Street to WestminsterSt. Paul CathedralThe White Walls of England

Malaga For the Win

August 21, 2024by: Alexandra Farmer - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Malaga, Spain with WorldStrides

4

I could not be more thankful for my 4 weeks spent in Malaga Spain. Malaga is a very calm and beach city, my student residencia was located directly in the city center around many shops and restaurants. As a Black girl from Maryland I was weary of study abroad, as i’ve never been a minority in my community—Malaga was immensely welcoming and fun. I settled on Malaga because I wanted to be near the beach, and I am very happy I did. The center of the University where I took my classes was right on the beach, everyday I took the bus to class, went to the beach afterschool with my friends, then went a a restaurant for dinner and then the club at night. The ISA program took us to Sevilla, Cordoba, and Grenada. My friends and I also bought a $60 round trip ticket to Madrid for the weekend. Chose Malaga if you want to have a very relaxed yet impactful experience, you will be able to travel around Spain regardless but throughout all the cities I visited Malaga was like a story book town, the people were friendly, the weather was amazing, and the food was delicious. (Not the case for Madrid.) I took an international relations course during the Spanish elections and learned things that had never even crossed my mind. Malaga is also the home to Picasso and his museum which was a nice gem. Despite the fact I went on the journey alone, I left with life long friends because of the many adventures we went on during our time together. Overall I had an amazing experience, my professor was one of the best professors I’d had, she took us on a field trip around the Andalusia region. Malaga is a beautiful city, on the Mediterranean Sea, the food was excellent and I was able to experience it to the fullest without feeling overwhelmed and homesick…I highly recommend this place for anyone who many be a little overstimulated at times, this environment was very easy, incredibly fun, and welcoming.

Malaga Costa de Sol

A lifetime experience

August 20, 2024by: Paxton Gartman - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Granada, Spain with WorldStrides

5

This was truly such an amazing experience! I was able to form amazing friendships, the staff was very helpful and planned so many fun excursions. I was also able to learn so much about the Spanish culture and practice my Spanish by living with a host mom. This is an experience I will never forget it truly was amazing!

6 Weeks in Sydney!!!

August 20, 2024by: Zoie Wicker - United States

Program: Study Abroad at University of Sydney with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad has always been a dream of mine. When I found a program in my dream vacation spot I knew I had to apply. Spending 6 weeks in Sydney was a dream come true and I could not recommend it enough. Meeting new friends, visiting new places, and gaining lifelong experiences is something I will cherish forever. While in Sydney, I visited some amazing places and saw some amazing things. Saying I have witnessed a symphony in the world-famous opera is something I will talk about forever. TEAN made my experience easy and fun. 10/10 Recommend!!

New friends, new food, and beautiful places to see!

August 19, 2024by: Alina Fore - United States

Program: Study Abroad at Korea University with WorldStrides

4

I loved my summer experience in South Korea! I went to Yonsei university for 4 weeks. A small number of students chose my program, so we hung out a lot together. Traveling to a new country can be intimidating and overwhelming. However, being with a group of people who are experiencing the same thing can help diminish the anxieties of being in a new country. In the first week, we did almost everything together or in small groups until we felt confident and comfortable enough to do things on our own. I tried several new foods! Some of my favorite foods were bulgogi, bibimbap, tanghulu, bingsu, japchae, and korean bbq. In addition to new friends and foods, I was able to see beautiful temples, palaces, and hanok villages. I loved visiting the historic places of South Korea, because they are very different from historical places in the USA. While Seoul offers so much to see, I recommend exploring outside of Seoul as well! I loved going to Gyeongju, once the capital of the Silla dynasty, to see all the historical structures. I also liked going to Busan and seeing the Gamcheon Cultural Village. While I wished I could have explored more of the places on my list in Busan, it was a pretty city to explore. Some of my favorite places in Seoul were Eunpyeong hanok village, Gangnam, and Hongdae. My group explored Hongdae a lot because our accommodation was located in Seogyo, which was only a 10-minute walk from Hongdae. Furthermore, I loved our accommodation! We all had our own rooms, and the accommodation was close to Hongdae, our campus (30 minutes by bus), and other popular locations. One thing to keep in mind is that once it hits July, South Korea becomes extremely hot and humid. Rain is also common during this season. I recommend bringing a poncho or rain jacket! When it rains, it pours, and the wind can be strong too, which can break or invert your umbrella. A poncho can also protect your backpack from getting soaked. Overall, I enjoyed my trip to South Korea. I was very thankful to TEAN for helping me whenever I had a question or problem. If I were to ever to visit South Korea again, I would want to hike more in Seoul as well as other cities I wasn't able to visit. Enjoy your time there because it goes by quickly!

Eunpyeong Hanok VillageCampusGyeongju hike- Mt. Namsan

The best thing I've ever done!

August 18, 2024by: Audrey Wood - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Busan, South Korea with WorldStrides

5

Choosing to study abroad, especially in South Korea, was one of the best things I have ever done!! It was so much fun, I was able to learn so much about the culture, and I met so many amazing people while abroad. It is such a fun and awesome way to step out of your comfort zone, and it helps you grow so much as a person. It can seem really daunting to travel to a new place by yourself, but it is such an amazing experience! I will always encourage and recommend studying abroad, and I absolutely loved my experience in doing so!

Lottery Adventure Park; South Korea

Bond University

August 17, 2024by: Anagrace Fagot - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

4

I was consumed by anxiety as I prepared to embark on my Australian adventure. Yet, the experience transcended all expectations, emerging as the most extraordinary period of my life. I forged an enduring friendship with an individual who I am still close with. The privilege of exploring Australia's rich history through dedicated coursework was an invaluable opportunity. Each sunrise, I reveled in the spectacle of sunrise as I ran along the coast. Residing on campus facilitated unforgettable encounters with a diverse array of locals. My time in Australia is an irreplaceable treasure, and I implore everyone to seize the chance to study abroad there.

The best few months in Spain!

August 16, 2024by: emma kovalic - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Salamanca, Spain with WorldStrides

4

When I was deciding on where to study abroad, I knew I wanted a town where I would deeply get to know the area, people, and culture, and Salamanca was the perfect place for that! I really enjoyed that It was the perfect size where when I would be walking back from class I might pass by classmates and friends who were sitting at street cafes, or when going out for a night, I would run into those same classmates or even professors and ISA staff. During my time there, I felt like I really understood the city and found my favorite cafes and spots to hang out, but there was always more to explore. Salamanca is close to a lot of really gorgeous nature and countryside, so my friends and I would always rent bikes in the city and take them to neighboring cities and spend days just exploring! Through ISA I was also able to go on some amazing trips, both to cities nearby Salamanca, and those in different countries! I was able to really get a good sense of the country around me through these trips and some of the personal ones I took, and would learn a lot about the culture and history in each city we went to. Because my Spanish language skills were not the best when I showed up, I was able to take some of my classes in English which helped me feel more comfortable with the transition to understanding all the other parts of my study abroad experience that were completely in Spanish. I stayed in a resedencia (dorm-style apartment living) and really enjoyed the freedom it gave me and variety of people I was able to meet. I am super glad I studied abroad in Salamanca, and have made memories and friends I will keep forever!

University BuildingCity from the top of the cathedralwalking around the sandstone streets

Abroad with Koalas!!

August 16, 2024by: Megan Stout - United States

Program: Intern Abroad in Australia with WorldStrides

5

I couldn't have asked for a better experience. The first week in Australia really set the tone for the entire trip. The orientation week was located in Cairns, Australia and we got to know the other interns in our home city and other cities as well. We also learned about aboriginal culture and the pride Australians take in it, and we were given an insight on Australian culture and how to decipher the slang used. I stayed in Brisbane, Australia and as a Zoology major I was placed at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. I had a very open learning environment and had hands-on experience with animals I didn't even know existed before going to Australia. I had an insane moment when I saw a baby koala come out of the mothers pouch when I was cleaning the enclosure. The layout of my internship allowed me the time to explore and travel to other cities and even see the North Island of New Zealand. However, before I started traveling I really got to find my way around Brisbane with my Residential Directors help and recommendations. Trivia Tuesdays at Stockies Exchange Hotel never failed us.

Koala at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

부산이 젛다!!!

August 16, 2024by: Maria Villeno - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Busan, South Korea with WorldStrides

5

South Korea has been one of the many countries I plan on working at some point in my career. When the opportunity to go there arose in front of me, I HAD TO TAKE IT! I wanted to immerse myself in the country to see what it would be like to live there. Although four weeks may not seem as long, I am even more determined to go back. It was an unforgettable experience. I have met so many wonderful people and saw so many beautiful sights.

Gyeongju Expo MuseumPNU students

Best Month Ever!

August 15, 2024by: Julia Kubinski - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Paris, France with WorldStrides

4

My time in Paris was truly a magical experience. Being able to see all the famous sights that I dreamed of seeing in person was truly an unforgettable experience. I was able to have morning classes and then I would explore the city with my friends which was so much fun to feel like a local. ISA did such an amazing job creating activities such as a trip to the Loire Valley for castle tours which was so cool.

I had an amazing time and the best experience ever

August 14, 2024by: Ireland Gates - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

4

Studying in Seville was the best experience I have ever had. I was able to fully immerse myself in another culture and make lasting memories and connections with new friends and other students I have worked and studied with. I was able to have a productive learning environment while also being able to have fun and visit other cities.

Four Months in Sydney

August 14, 2024by: Jake Reeves - United States

Program: Study Abroad at University of Sydney with WorldStrides

4

Studying abroad in Australia was one of the best decisions I've ever made. In the 4 months I spent abroad I met more people than I can count, traveled around Australia and Indonesia and New Zealand, and grew as a person. There are so many unique and cool experiences for people to discover in Australia, including the different animals and unique foods. I really loved seeing koalas, kangaroos, and platypuses in the wild. One of the most important parts of studying abroad is to take advantage of every opportunity you have, and that really helped make my abroad experience something that I'll never forget.

Best experience of my life!

August 14, 2024by: Jessi Stewart - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Auckland, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

I felt so taken care of by TEAN and I had such a great time abroad! I met people that will be my lifelong friends through TEAN and I feel so lucky to have been a part of such an amazing program. The program directors were always available to talk and we met up quite often as a group, which I liked. New Zealand is amazing and I had the time of my life living there!

Best experience ever!!

August 13, 2024by: Cassie Brown - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Barcelona, Spain with WorldStrides

5

Choosing to study abraod in Barcelona with ISA made my expereince! I made so many great friends and memories through the ISA Valencia trip that I will never forget. ISA was very great and helped prepare me for my classes, pre deparutre info, and fun things to do in Barcelona.

Amazing Semester in Sydney!!

August 13, 2024by: Cassidy Beyer - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Sydney, Australia with WorldStrides

4

My TEAN study abroad was so much fun and so well organized! There was a lot of on-site support for students through the university and through TEAN and I felt very safe the entire time I was in Sydney. It was also very easy to make friends through TEAN's orientation in Cairns and it was so fun going to the different TEAN events in Sydney throughout the semester. TEANs orientation in Cairns was a highlight of the semester for me and automatically made TEAN stand out amongst other study abroad companies for me. I would highly recommend studying abroad with TEAN, especially in Sydney with the University of New South Wales. There were so many events and ways to meet people through UNSW and the proximity to the beach was amazing!! The only bad thing about my experience was that there were a lot of cockroaches in our apartment, but we worked with UNSW to get them to spray down our apartment with a special cockroach-killing spray. We had them come in like once a month and it got better after that.

The Best Experience of My Life!

August 13, 2024by: Riley Hausler - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Sydney, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad in Sydney, Australia was truly the best experience of my life filled with adventure, excitement, new friends, and new opportunities. Going abroad with TEAN was awesome because of all the opportunities offered to students, assistance with academics, housing, and adjusting to a new city, and great staff to help me in any situation I may have needed. Through TEAN, I was able to snorkel the Great Barrier Reef, hike around the Blue Mountains, and go to a very cool rugby game in Sydney. TEAN also helped coordinate my housing situation and I absolutely loved where I lived with all the amenities I needed- The Meriton Suites on Bondi Junction. During my three months abroad, I was able to travel to many places with my best friends such as Bangkok and Phuket in Thailand, Queenstown, New Zealand, Nadi, Fiji, and cities throughout Australia like Mildura, Cairns, and Nelson Bay. I took advantage of all the opportunities placed in front of me and had an adventure of a lifetime. Through TEAN, I met some of my best friends that will forever be my travel buddies! After living in Sydney for three months, it has become my favorite place in the world. The amazing people, clean and safe city, beautiful beaches, active lifestyle, and the best coffee I have ever had made my experience even better. Because of my amazing abroad experience with TEAN, I want to move back to Sydney in my near future!

My Gaudi Barcelona!

August 12, 2024by: Shayla Bergene - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Barcelona, Spain with WorldStrides

4

ISA study abroad is something you will not regret. With a promising new perspective of life itself, and a new appreciation of the world I can say it was the best experience so far. I spent my spring semester in Barcelona, living in a student residence. I recommend student residence living because you will be able to meet locals, practice the language, and feel less alone because of the easily accessible common spaces that is always filled with residents. Study abroad will also introduce you to a new education format than your home university. The trips and gatherings offered through ISA was beyond helpful, and it was where I made some life long friends with great memories. Take a deep breath, look around, be open, travel and embrace public transport! Of course, life is still going to come into play, and not all times are going to be easy, and not all days are going to be 100%, and you will want to go home. Take it day by day, and plan things to look forward to! Culture shock is real, and bound to happen when you are taken out of your comfort zone. However, be persistent and remember why you wanted to take on this journey in the first place. Most likely, you will be able to feel a beautiful and fulfilling transition in yourself because of your freshly gained perspective of the world. Also- try all the foods, drinks, be friendly, and bring a digital camera! You will want to make a scrap book of your moments abroad.

On my way to University!

UPDATED: Best summer of my life, I would highly recommend going abroad to anyone who is intereste

August 11, 2024by: Ethan Ochital - United States

Program: Intern Abroad in Valencia, Spain with WorldStrides

4

I completed my internship in Valencia at a company called SingularStays. They manage the processes related to renting to make things easier for the owners. Many people staying at their apartments are travelers, but they also have longer-term guests. They list their units on their website, in addition to sites like Airbnb and Booking.com. I helped them with various administrative tasks and collected and delivered apartment keys. I’m interested in pursuing a career in the travel industry, and this internship aligned well with that. In addition to interning, I had plenty of time to explore Valencia and travel to various other places in Europe. The ISA on-site staff were friendly and made sure to look out for the safety and well-being of participants. They also organized optional activities and trips. My favorite day trip with them was to Gandia. We went to the beach and had the opportunity to do water activities as well. The activities are also a great way to meet other ISA participants. They also ran an optional paid overnight trip to Barcelona, offering it on two different weekends during my program. The apartment I was placed in was in a great location. I was only about a 15-20 minute walk from the city center, and my internship was also near the city center. I was also only about an 8-minute walk from the nearest metro station, which had a line directly to Valencia Airport. However, an important thing to keep in mind is that air conditioning is not as common throughout Europe as it is in the United States, and it was very hot in Valencia during the summer. For the most part, I had no issues with this as I had a fan in my bedroom, and I was lucky enough that the living room had air conditioning. The apartment was also a little bit worn, and I saw a lizard several times. The first time was on my first night living there, and one of my flatmates captured it and let it out. The second time I saw a lizard was towards the end of my program, and it hid away fairly quickly. While the lizard was harmless, seeing it was still unsettling. Despite this “startling” start, I had a fantastic time abroad in Valencia and in Europe, and it was the best summer of my life! I enjoyed my time abroad so much that I decided to do an exchange program with my university in the UK this past spring, which allowed me to continue my growth and excitement for travel that my program in Valencia helped ignite!

The kitchen and an eating area.The living/dining room, which had air conditioning.A picture from the SingularStays office.
Ethan Ochital video

Unforgettable Trip

August 11, 2024by: katelyn karwick - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Paris, France with WorldStrides

4

My time in Paris was fantastic, mainly because I had the perfect balance of planned activities and free time. I explored the city at my own pace, which made the experience much more enjoyable. I never felt rushed no matter where I wanted to go- from Montmartre to shopping districts. What made a big difference was that I had a bit of structure from an architecture class. It helped me see the city in a new way and notice details I might have overlooked. But what I appreciated the most was having enough free time to soak in the atmosphere of Paris on my terms. This mix of learning and leisurely exploring made my trip fun and memorable while keeping an academic focus.

The best decision I could have made!

August 09, 2024by: Meghan Martin - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

4

I chose to study abroad in Seville in the spring, and it was the best decision I could have made. In the spring, they have two festivals that cannot be missed. One of them is Holy Week but called Semana Santa in Spanish. Two weeks later, is their Feria de Abril which also lasts a week long! This was easily my favorite experience of my study abroad and I recommend it to everyone who is thinking about studying in Seville to stay that entire week. I was able to wear a traditional flamenco dress and hang out with Sevillanos. The social scene overall is lively and there is always opportunities to get to know other people/students. I never had a bad experience with the locals (even when talking to them in Spanish). The food is amazing and even when you get tired of Spanish cuisine they offer a variety of food all around the center. When I traveled around Europe, I always felt like Seville was my home base and by the end of every trip, I wanted to return back.

Life-Changing Summer Abroad in Cusco

August 08, 2024by: Solymar Ortiz - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Cusco, Peru with WorldStrides

4

I did the Summer I semester in Cusco and had a truly life-changing experience. Despite being a shortened semester, ISA made sure we saw all of the best parts of Cusco. Cusco's rich history and culture made for an amazing time studying abroad. The ISA staff and my professors made sure to support me every step of the way, providing great help even when I got sick. The study center is small but charming and offers a great space to study and engage with the ISA community. I will never forget my time in Peru and going through this program has me yearning to go again.

Travels from Viña Del Mar, Chile

August 07, 2024by: Genesis Cabrera - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Chile with WorldStrides

5

Wow, what an unforgettable experience my 5 months in Chile have been. I am so grateful I was able to get the opportunity to experience and learn about a different part of the world. I wish to encourage others to consider studying abroad. Chile treated me with nothing but kindness, amazing sights, and fun memories I will always have replaying in my head. ISA was a hands-on program that made me feel prepared and safe. The staff was there in a heartbeat if I had any questions or issues. I was able to go on a few excursions with my program and became friends with the other students within the program. I don't believe I would have as smooth a transition into living in another country without my ISA crew. Although I traveled to other beautiful countries while studying in Chile... I always became homesick for my city Viña Del Mar, Chile. It is truly one-of-a-kind city. You have the coast with the most beautiful sunsets in front of you and a city with every kind of restaurant, bar, and shopping centers you'll ever need behind you. It's impossible to be bored in Viña. At the same time, it is so easy to run on island time since it is still a "beach city". The loud sounds of the waves at night will have you asleep by 9PM.

An Absolute Dream

August 06, 2024by: Sarah Bova - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Florence, Italy with WorldStrides

5

The best 4 months of my life! Florence was a dream and I would giving anything and everything to go back. The city is filled with lots of history and offers something for everyone. The coffee, the pasta, the pizza, you name it and it was amazing. I lived in an apartment in the city and I recommend this! It was nice to be able to cook meals when wanted and to come back to a cozy place. With Florence being a smaller city, it creates a home-like feel which made my abroad experience 10x better. The more I traveled, the more I appreciated the fact that it was a walkable city. I enjoyed getting to roam the streets of Florence and take in the culture and architecture it had to offer. I am constantly missing my view of the Duomo I had on my walks to class! While Florence is a bit more expensive to fly out of compared to other cities, I was able to travel to a hand full of cities and countries without any issues. Seeing as there are so many surrounding cities to fly out of, it didn't downgrade my experience one bit. If you are thinking of studying in Italy, I absolutely recommend Florence! You won't be disappointed!!

Best Study Abroad Experience

August 05, 2024by: Jordyn Ochoa - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Auckland, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad in Auckland allowed me to explore a new city and have easy access to nature and neighboring countries. My program allowed me to meet amazing people and my housing was great. I had the opportunity to live with two girls from New Zealand and form friendships with people from Auckland, other cities within New Zealand, and even with people from other countries. I got to experience life on the other side of the world and could have not imagined a better experience. I would highly recommend studying abroad in Auckland, New Zealand!

AucklandTongariro CrossingMount Cook National Park

Favorite Semester so Far

August 04, 2024by: Julia Clerkin - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Valencia, Spain with WorldStrides

5

My experience in Valencia, Spain with ISA was nothing but amazing. The 3 months I spent living there were my favorite 3 months of college yet. Valencia is a wonderful city, one of the cleanest and safest I have ever been too while also having amazing history, culture, and cuisine. The ISA program was a fantastic program which I cannot recommend enough. I build connections with the staff and other students from all over, through our many different activities and excursions that were offered.

Romeoville to Rome

August 03, 2024by: Nathaniel Rector - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Rome, Italy with WorldStrides

5

Going from a standard Illinois suburb like Romeoville to Rome was an incredible change. Seeing famous landmarks like the Colosseum and the Roman Forum every day made history feel real. The food was amazing, especially the pasta, which was fresh and delicious. I loved experiencing Italian culture, with its relaxed pace of life and long meals with friends. The locals were friendly and welcoming, making me feel at home even though I was far away. Studying in Rome taught me a lot about adapting to new situations and opened my eyes to different ways of thinking. It also made me even more excited about working in international relations. I had a comfortable place to live and made great friends, which made my time in Rome unforgettable. I’m really grateful for this experience and hope to go back one day to enjoy the magic of the city again.

Embracing Madrid - Breathtaking location for your study abroad!

August 03, 2024by: Fatima Elmokaddem - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Madrid, Spain with WorldStrides

5

This was genuinely one of the best decisions I’ve made during my years in university. Madrid in my opinion was one of the best choices in terms of cities to study in while in Spain, and the host university I was in was extremely warm and welcoming. ISA was very helpful in regards to how the program was structured, and it was so comforting to know that the staff was focused entirely on our well-being while we were there. I never felt alone while I was there, even though it was my first time studying abroad. We were given countless opportunities to explore, whether it was through guided excursions, tours, or with the freetime that we had. I would recommend this program to anyone who is contemplating going, because if I were able to I would do it all over again!

Almudena Cathedral

go to new zealand!

August 03, 2024by: Nicki Hagen - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Dunedin, New Zealand with WorldStrides

4

I took 3 classes ("papers") which were great - I recommend Māori 108 ! The uniflats office paired me with great housemates that I got along with and I really liked my house/ location (I thought mine was one of the best) and loved having a kiwi host. TEAN organizes your living through uniflats so you don't have to worry about too many housing logistics before arrival. Dee (program staff in Dunedin) is very kind and helpful! Dunedin provides great access to south island adventures and beautiful scenery. I did lots of beach swimming, hiking, queenstown adventure fun, etc. The otago peninsula beaches are amazing! I felt safe in New Zealand and really enjoyed my time :)

Best Adventure of my Life!

August 02, 2024by: Miranda Gormley - United States

Program: Study Abroad in San Jose, Costa Rica with WorldStrides

4

I absolutely loved my study abroad experience with ISA in San Jose, Costa Rica. I went on amazing snorkeling and whale-watching trips for my marine biology courses, got to explore many volcanoes and waterfalls, and was immersed in the Latin American culture through Spanish courses, my homestay, and lots of cultural activities. I learned how to cook traditional dishes, got to participate in tropical dance classes, and learned about the history of Costa Rica while traveling with ISA. Wouldn't change a minute of my journey!

Arenal Volcano

AMAZING

August 02, 2024by: Anna Bartig - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

5

WOW! My time abroad was amazing. I would not have changed anything if I could. I loved my school, host family, roommate, and everything about Sevilla. One of my favorite parts about studying abroad was being able to be immersed in a culture without being a tourist. There is something so special about calling a foreign land a home. I was able to learn about life across the world and experience something so unique. I also loved living with a host family. It was in their home that I was able to practice Spanish in a way I have never done before.

Amazing Experience in London

August 01, 2024by: Margaret Blower - United States

Program: Study Abroad in London, England with WorldStrides

4

I loved studying abroad in London. It's a city full of history, experiences, and views that I can't wait to go back and see! I took classes that were associated with my degree and ones that were not, which was nice because I was able to have a varied educational experience and understand how their education system compared to the one I was used to. ISA hosted excursions to places such as Windsor Castle that were a lot of fun. They also held orientation and pre-arrival information sessions which made the transition much easier. I would highly recommend this program to anyone looking to study abroad!

Chatsworth House in Derbyshire, England

Such an amazing experience!

August 01, 2024by: Amelia Hamilton - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Florence, Italy with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad with ISA was so smooth and relaxing. Traveling overseas and doing school in another country is stressful to even think about planning, but ISA made it so easy and I loved this program. We not only got to get close with other students studying abroad but there were events planned for us to tour and see around the city. The classes were my favorite part and I really got to emerge myself in the culture in Florence.

 tour around the Piazzale Michelangelo

A Memorable Experience!

August 01, 2024by: Ream Elkawaga - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

5

My time in Sevilla, Spain was such a wonderful experience especially as my very first time abroad. I originally applied due to interest in the history course offered, but the sheer fun I had with my classmates as well as the relationship fostered with the staff in my time there was very heartwarming. I felt incredibly safe due to the gated housing. I had access to a lot of banks/ATMs, grocery stores, restaurants, and a lot of close by local attractions like the Alcazar and the Plaza de España. And coupled with the sheer atmosphere of being in such a beautiful country was the fact that the class was just as interesting. The professor really went out of his way to educate us and I'll forever be grateful for that. Definitely go for it! It's okay to be nervous and scared at first, but I PROMISE you'll soon come to relax and love it so much that you'll promise yourself you'd come back!

An unforgettable experience

August 01, 2024by: Sarah Pilling - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Suva, Fiji with WorldStrides

5

Fiji is an excellent place to have new cultural experiences. In addition to the rich Fijian culture, the University of South Pacific has students from many different pacific island nations, and the cultural diversity is widely celebrated. If you love to snorkel, scuba dive, surf, or just spend time next to/in the ocean, Fiji will be the perfect place for you. I have so many unforgettable experiences with sharks, rays, and other tropical fish and animals.

Scuba diving in Taveuni

An Experience of a Lifetime!

July 31, 2024by: Isabella Duval - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Malaga, Spain with WorldStrides

5

Studying in Malaga was truly an unforgettable experience. In the 'Summer 1' program I met extraordinary people and visited the most beautiful places in Spain. Malaga is a beautiful city. The city center offers amazing food, shopping, social life, and more. Additionally, outside the city center, the rest of Malaga is beautiful. Near UMA, El Palo beach was the best. My professor was amazing! Overall, I think this program was 100% worth it in every aspect, and I HIGHLY recommend taking up this opportunity if it's possible.

Once in a lifetime

July 31, 2024by: Ander Blowers - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Barranquilla, Colombia with WorldStrides

4

I went to Colombia to experience a culture and language different from the one I had grown up with in East Tennessee. From the coast with the oldest surviving city in South America to the south with the largest rainforest in the world, you can experience one of the most diverse cultures in the Latin world and come to love the people and way of life in Colombia. I also can't forget my favorite city, and home for nearly 5 months, Medellín. There you will find a city with the kindest people, diverse activities, perfect weather, and the greatest salsa dancers in the world. I got exactly what I wanted. You will truly get to see and experience a different culture, language, and people than anywhere else you can travel. Along with this, I gained a greater understanding of business on an international level that I would not have found elsewhere. If you want a unique experience different from the rest, you will surely find it here. I hope you will soon find yourself, as I did, in my second home. ¡Amo Colombia!

paraglidingperson in the Amazon holding a baby caiman

Best experience ever.

July 30, 2024by: Anna Wernersbach - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

4

Studying in Sevilla, Spain wuth ISA was the most incredible experience of my life. I had the most unforgettable 4 months and will never forget the memories I made. I met so many people and the administrators were so kind and personable - Manolo, marina and Tamara especially made the residencia feel like home.

My Time in Florence

July 27, 2024by: Rachel Curran - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Florence, Italy with WorldStrides

4

My experience was unique because I had never been to Europe before studying abroad. This was my first time for everything in Europe, and I think that’s really special. I had never been so far from home before, and it definitely made me very independent and develop new helpful problem solving skills. I ended up having so much fun in my classes abroad, and with my new friends that I am now inspired to help others through the study abroad process. I also didn’t know a single person studying abroad and that was a little nerve racking for me because I didn’t know what any one in my program was like or even who my roommates were. However, I think that my program did an amazing job at pairing me up with girls that are like me, to make living with strangers a lot smoother. A note I would leave for someone studying abroad in Florence for the semester is to say yes to everything, and do as much as you can. The semester goes by so so fast it almost feels like a dream when you come back, so you have to make the most of your time and enjoy every moment.

people near a canal bridge in veniceThe Vatican

Summer 2024 in Barcelona

July 25, 2024by: Ryan Armstrong - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Barcelona, Spain with WorldStrides

4

I went abroad on a four week intensive program in Barcelona with ISA, and it was wonderful. Regarding ISA, they are organized and very personable. Using their site and portal was also so simple. The process seemed to be as easy as possible. On the trip they had three ALL inclusive trips provided and they were all so much fun. I met so many new friends and professors through this program. The courses were also challenging but fun; you could tell the teachers were into their content. The experiences I had were endless, and I would 100% recommend this trip to any college student looking to improve their Spanish drastically.

Spring Time in Seoul

July 24, 2024by: Samantha Tan - United States

Program: Study Abroad at Korea University with WorldStrides

4

My experience of studying abroad truly felt like a dream. When I think about my time there, I feel so endlessly grateful for the life I lived and all of the lessons I have learned. I went for my spring semester junior year, I arrived in late February and left in late June. I experienced winter, spring, and summer in Korea and it was the most magical thing ever. School started in early March, and every day after classes my friends and I would go explore the city, go to cafes to do homework, shop for our daily necessities and so much more. Every day was filled with adventure and meaningful moments. I enjoyed the time I spent alone exploring the city, all of the precious moments between people, and the beauty of the city. I miss Korea and my life there, and I am so grateful for TEAN and all of their help along the way.

tray full of food and drinks from Gamttanam Cafe in Jeju

My semester in Paris

July 23, 2024by: Alison Cayetano - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Paris, France with WorldStrides

5

This Study Abroad experience was a dream come true. An important goal of mine was alway to study abroad and thanks to ISA, I was able to accomplish it. I chose Paris, France because I wanted to immerse myself in a new culture and continue my studies with the French language. The staff at the ISA PARIS office made me feel welcomed. They provided us with so many activities and opportunities to experience and learn about Paris. My homestay family was also very welcoming. We would talk over dinner, I practiced my French, and I learned so much from them. I had great professors at the Institut Catholique de Paris who helped with my written, oral, and comprehension skills. I visited dozens of museums and exhibitions abroad since I am an art lover. This was my first time traveling outside of the U.S. and though I was nervous, I learned that I love to travel. I visited many places in France and Europe. This was an eye-opening experience and I learned so much about myself. I really encourage people to apply if you can.

Life Changing Experience!!

July 22, 2024by: Brittany Rosas - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Rome, Italy with WorldStrides

5

I went to study abroad this summer alone and was scared of not being able to make friends. ISA did an amazing job in hosting a get to know each other-like dinner to meet new people. That night I was able to meet my four closest friends! ISA provided so many resources and support to all their students to help them with navigating the new city and other cities within Italy during our field trips. Additionally, when I was sick the Italy ISA staff took care of me. I am so glad I picked ISA for my first time studying abroad!

Sevilla tiene un color especial

July 19, 2024by: Luz Amezcua Reyes - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

5

You are missing out if you haven't heard the song "Sevilla Tiene un Color Especial" by Los Del Río. This song perfectly describes my experience in Sevilla with ISA. The song talks about Sevilla has a special color, and I couldn't agree more. What made Sevilla so special? The people. The ISA staff, professors, and directors were all very nice; they made me feel like family and always helped, whether it was with academics or recommendations for shopping or food. Additionally, I had a host mom who helped me navigate Sevilla and travel throughout Europe. The culture in Sevilla was fascinating and beautiful. For example, everywhere I went, people sang or danced to flamenco. Semana Santa was very traditional, and their tortillas were amazing. Furthermore, the classes were the most interesting I've ever had. They were very active and engaging, and I learned so much. I even took flamenco classes! As I mentioned earlier, the professors were great! Lastly, the people in Sevilla were very nice. I met many locals who included me in their plans and showed me around. Sevilla will forever have a special place in my heart. I learned so much by exploring a country very different from the ones I've been to. I would highly recommend people visit Sevilla, Spain, but only if it's with ISA.

Best Semester Ever

July 19, 2024by: Celia Cameron - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Melbourne, Australia with WorldStrides

4

Seriously, these months were the best of my life so far. Melbourne is an amazing city, and I think a lot of people don't consider it as much as other Australian places, but for me I feel like it had everything I could've wanted. There's so much art and good food, and there's always something to do. I attended the University of Melbourne, and the courses that I took were on the easy side, largely because I was doing what would count towards Gen Ed at my home university. The people in Australia are so friendly and lovely, and I felt very safe there, even in the middle of the CBD. I can't wait to go back someday. Make the most of your time there, or anywhere abroad!

Unforgettable moment studying abroad

July 18, 2024by: AeWa Shee - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Dunedin, New Zealand with WorldStrides

4

Thinking about my experience studying abroad, I would say that this has been one of the best decisions I have ever made. I got to explore the beauty of New Zealand, learn new things and also meet new friends along the way. The landscape is breathtaking, and weekend trips were one of my favorite memories during my time studying abroad. Most memorable one was when I went to Lake Tekapo and camp at Wanaka. In Lake Tekapo, my friends and I went hiking, swim at a hot spring, and watched the skies filled with stars at night. In Wanaka, while we were camping, I was able to see the beautiful and magical aurora appearing. Although it was freezing cold, it was so worth it. I will forever cherish the moment!

Beautiful rose garden with real mixed fruit ice-cream.Beautiful landscapes in New Zealandgroup of people with aurora behind with mountains

Life changing year in Greece!

July 16, 2024by: Patty Pratt - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Athens, Greece with WorldStrides

5

I studied abroad in Greece in 2022, and I had the most incredible experience! our living situation was wonderful! We were just a short walk away from a beautiful school beside the mountains. The small town where we studied was full of fun, restaurants, stores, and other things we needed! We could take a quick metro ride to downtown Athens, very easily! My favorite part of my study abroad experience was the people that I met! I truly made some of my best friend, and it was so fun being able to travel all over Europe every weekend with my new friends! I couldn’t recommend studying abroad more, it ignited my love for traveling, and I have traveled to so many other countries since living in Greece! I think Greece is the perfect place to study abroad, because the weather is beautiful, you can easily access all of the islands for weekend trips, and it is essentially located to take trips to other countries as well! I could do it all over again, I would do it exactly the same way with this program in Athens through ISA!

Patty Pratt video

Wow. Everyone needs to go to South Korea!

July 16, 2024by: Arli Moyao-Ramirez - United States

Program: Study Abroad at Korea University with WorldStrides

5

I had a great time studying in Seoul. As a STEM-major, classes were a bit more time consuming than I had anticipated but, I enjoyed my experience and learned so much about the culture. It was very easy to meet people, and make new friends. I liked how safe it felt, especially when traveling to other parts of Korea such as going to Jeju, Sokcho, and Busan. This experience allowed me to learn more about myself, and I feel more confident and care-free to travel.

Great Experience!

July 15, 2024by: Shea Fisler - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Granada, Spain with WorldStrides

4

ISA Granada was wonderful! It was very well organized, the staff were very welcoming and friendly, the relationships with other students were great, and the city of Granada was incredible! Classes at the University of Granada weren’t the best, it often felt more like reciting information instead of actually learning. But everything else about the program was fantastic!

Gorgeous country

July 13, 2024by: Eleanor Mollman - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Dunedin, New Zealand with WorldStrides

4

There are so many sights to see and places to go, and I would love to go back to experience more. I would highly recommend Dunedin if you are nature fanatic and want to spend a lot of time outdoors. I loved how much it rained and was luscious with greenery

Milford sound

Becoming an Italian

July 12, 2024by: Chiara Moore - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Florence, Italy with WorldStrides

5

I decided to spend an academic year studying in Florence, Italy, because my mother’s family is Tuscan and Sicilian, and I wanted to reconnect with my heritage. I stayed in a homestay with one roommate, and our host was a wonderful grandmother. She was incredibly kind and supportive, and I am so grateful for the year I got to spend with her. While in Italy, I also traveled to ten other countries, experiencing their food, celebrations, shopping scenes, and more. Besides traveling, my time in Italy was one of the best periods of my life. I made close friends with many locals and foreigners who taught me their languages, cooking skills, and other cultural traditions.

In the GardensCastiglioncelloMilan

Self-discovery in Cusco, Peru

July 12, 2024by: Karen Rodriguez - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Cusco, Peru with WorldStrides

5

The opportunity to study abroad presented itself at the perfect time. During the fall semester of my junior year, I was going through a mental rut; I felt disconnected, unmotivated, and dispassionate. As someone from a tight-nit community that intentionally stays close, I never considered studying abroad. That was until I experienced an abundance of frequent synchronicities. Initially, I was reluctant to even apply for a program because I felt fear; the most pressing of them all was discovering a new version of myself, one that functions independent of the familiar influences and environmental factors that I was raised with. Because of the mental state that I was in, I felt that I had nothing to lose-- so I applied to the program that I felt most connected with; ISA Cusco, Peru. After completing a semester of studying abroad in Cusco, Peru, I can gratefully say that it was one of the most impactful highlight of my life. This experience truly saved me from myself. As someone who had previously never left the continent and who has lived in the same state my entire life, I never knew how much I needed to "leave the nest." Living in another continent, studying with students from all over the world, and creating connections independent of any familiar influences allowed for me to learn so much about myself. I learned things about myself that I would have never known if I would have never left my hometown. I discovered that I appreciate living in the present moment, taking things in, and not rushing my experience of being. In the US, it is socially normal to constantly feel rushed or preoccupied with thoughts of the future, and this is reflected in our behavior. I noticed that most people in the US walk at a quick pace, with the purpose of getting somewhere else, never really taking in where they are at during these transition periods. Even once they arrive to their destination, they are thinking about where they have to be next. This robs one of the ability to appreciate life for what it is, and takes away from living in the now. In Peru, people take in the now, they are not worried about being late--because people expect you to be late, and they walk slower (the fact that Cusco is 11k ft. above sea level may account for the slower pace of walking). I urge future participants to conceptualize studying abroad as an opportunity to self-discovery, moreover, to realize who you are independent of the environmental factors you experience back home. In addition, studying abroad can increase your levels of open-mindedness as experiencing new regions of the world can provide you with a bigger picture perspective about life and what you really want from it. For me, Cusco taught me that I love the feeling of being present, and that for the sake of my well-being-- it is crucial for me to soak in the moment and get out of my own head.

Machu Picchu

My Life in Greece

July 09, 2024by: Olivia Miller - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Athens, Greece with WorldStrides

5

I truly believe that going to Greece to study at the American College of Greece was one of the best things I have done in my life. This experience has stuck with me every second that I have been back home. Tess and Eugenia did an amazing job of making us feel loved, welcomed, and supported. Immersing myself into the Greek culture is an experience I truly hold near and dear to my heart and will forever more. I am so thankful to have had the opportunity to go abroad and I encourage everyone who is thinking about studying abroad to take the leap!

National Garden in Syntagma Square, Athens, Greece

Life in Roma with ISA

July 05, 2024by: Mae Genovese - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Rome, Italy with WorldStrides

4

I am so grateful for the experience ISA gave me in Rome. Everything that could be organized and created into an approachable process was. Signing up for classes, getting my permit to stay, and finding a place to stay were never done alone; ISA did much of the work. I was assigned an apartment with roommates and this formed the basis of the community within Rome. Our apartment had a beautiful view and was a place where we could all relax. There were also two trips with ISA that were no additional expense. We went to Florence and the Amalfi Coast. Both trips had fun activities and hotels in great locations.

Best decision of my life

July 04, 2024by: Erin Campbell - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Florence, Italy with WorldStrides

5

I recently completed my study abroad experience with ISA in Florence, Italy. The staff at ISA were extremely helpful and took time to thoroughly answer every question I sent their way. In Florence, the staff were some of the nicest people i’ve ever met and genuinely cared about me and my peers. I decided to study abroad alone and was really nervous leading up to departure, but ISA provides such great care and lasting friendships. When I arrived in Florence, I was greeted by a staff member and transported to my apartment quickly and easily. I went on two excursions through my program, Pisa, Siena and San Gimignano, where ISA provided comfortable transportation and guided tours of the cities. I also had a wonderful experience with the apartment ISA assigned for me, with it being located in walking distance to the city center as well as grocery stores and restaurants right next door. In Florence, I took three fashion classes and a wine and city class. Each class was always so fun and I enjoyed going to museums, tasting food I would have never tried and meeting locals. I truly had the time of my life and will cherish the memories and friendships forever.

Best immersion program in Spain I could have asked for

July 03, 2024by: Kira Cordova - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Bilbao, Spain with WorldStrides

4

Bilbao is a small, walkable city with great public transportation, amazing food, and stellar cultural offerings. There are numerous free exhibits and concerts every week, and I took full advantage of the cheap, incredible food options across the city. I went to Spain as a Spanish major wanting to cement my language skills, and ISA's Bilbao program let me do exactly that. Homestay was the only housing option (which I wanted), and my host family was incredible; my host parents supported my language immersion tirelessly (talking with me over daily family-style lunch about Basque culture and and Spain and teaching me new vocabulary) while also giving me the independence to explore the city and travel. ISA's pre-program visa-support process in the US left a lot to be desired, but Genoveva (the on-site coordinator in Bilbao) was the absolute best. She connected me with volunteer opportunities, cultural experiences, and students seeking English tutors who hired me to give private classes in the afternoons. Be aware ISA offers classes through CIDE (el Centro Internacional de Español) at Deusto University. CIDE is a language exchange program designed specifically for North American students, so you'll start and end the semester on a North American schedule and take classes with mostly other North Americans unless you opt into classes with locals (although you will have to push to take more than one class with Spanish students per semester). The CIDE instructors are excellent, and they offer a variety of classes designed to meet requirements for Spanish and Business degrees. I joined Deusto's Basque dance group, and you can take language classes separate from your CIDE classes at the university's language center in the evenings (including French and Basque). There is also a chapter of the international student group Happy Erasmus in Bilbao that organizes weekly events and weekend trips in English for students from around the world. I loved Bilbao so much I took a gap year after my program to continue volunteering on a tall ship based in the city in order to stay. For a student who had never left the united states before but wanted as much Spanish immersion as possible, it was an incomparable experience.

The view of the Guggenheim museum on my walk to Deusto University from my homestay!

University of Otago Study Abroad 2024 through an Environmental Science Majors eyes

July 03, 2024by: Holly Bratcher - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Dunedin, New Zealand with WorldStrides

4

The Uni of Otago was the perfect place in New Zealand to experience a study abroad semester, especially with my passion for the environment. There is so many activities you can do: beaches galore, the Royal Albatross Center, the OPERA, and Lanarch Castle are just some of the ones I recommend. Dee was an amazing resident director, always there to help and act as a mom figure! The classes were challenging but synced with NZ concepts and I learned so much and got to push myself. The people of New Zealand are the most friendly, always there to help you. The culture and hospitality made me feel right at home even at first moments of arrival in my host city. My kiwi host was lovely and a friend to be there to guide me through this experience. Overall, my experience abroad was the most amazing thing I could have experienced in my undergraduate career. I met so many diverse people, ate local foods, traveled the country, and learned so much from my classes and professors. I truly found a new home in another country, and I am so keen to go visit asap!!!

Haka in Queenstown, NZUniversity of OtagoSt Clair beach sunrise at 6am
Holly Bratcher video

The best summer in Athens

July 02, 2024by: McKenna Ritter - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Athens, Greece with WorldStrides

4

My study abroad summer trip to Athens Greece was nothing short of unforgettable. Having never travelled abroad for an extended period the summer session was the perfect opportunity to dip my toes in. Of course this left me wishing I could stay for much longer. I had decided to take this trip solo and that was honestly the best decision I could have made. Almost everyone I met had chosen to do the same, and I made friends who I got really close with very quickly. I enjoyed the luxury of being close enough to walk to campus, shopping, markets, and different restaurant's. Public transportation was also super easy to navigate and we took many trips downtown on the metro and the buses. I went on many weekend trips with my program to historical sites and different islands. Big groups from my program also planned many weekend trips to different islands such as Mykonos and Paros. We booked boat cruises where we stopped at numerous islands or in the ocean to swim off the boat. The campus was beautiful as it sits on a mountain. The academics were a bit different than the U.S. as their grade scale and system is not the same, with little to no daily coursework. However, it is definitely manageable if you take the time to study for your midterm and final. I really enjoyed the cuisine as well, eating gyros almost every other day. There were lots of options for fresh produce and juices as well, and so many different authentic Greek dishes to try. Every Greek I met was very kind and helpful with any questions I had whether it be recommendations for places to visit or foods to try. Almost everyone speaks some English which made it especially helpful to navigate everything. My Greek classmates and Professors were very eager to answer our questions. Our accommodations were very close to the college and the apartment style living with everyone in our program made it so much fun to spend time together. The RA's living in the buildings were extremely kind and helpful and even spent time with us on various outings. I loved being in close proximity to everyone and so close to town where we could always find something to do. The views of course were extravagant. The beaches are unreal, with water so clear you can see completely to the bottom far off the shore. With the hot summer climate the water felt amazing. The historical sites and temples are truly something to behold, so much ancient history and Greek mythology associated with every place. It seemed that every site had a story of sorts behind its name. Greece in itself is truly everything I anticipated and more, I had many moments that felt so surreal. My biggest takeaway however, is the relationships I made. I was very fortunate to have met so many amazing people, and many which I kept in touch with after my trip. It is hard to see people you spent everyday with return back to every corner of the U.S. but I am so grateful to have experienced my summer abroad with them.

Wish I could go back

July 01, 2024by: Samantha Herlich - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Cusco, Peru with WorldStrides

4

I had the most incredible time spending 3 months in Cusco. I was able to go on an abundance of beautiful hikes, become immersed in the culture, and eat incredible food! The staff at ISA were also so supportive! They would give recommendations on things to do in Cusco and always were there to help out if needed.

best experience of my life

July 01, 2024by: Lauren Lainez - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

4

I had an excellent experience studying abroad with ISA. The staff were all so incredibly kind and helpful. When I landed in Spain, I immediately felt relieved and taken care of. They planned an orientation, social events and helped give us access to other events through school and around the community. The trips through ISA were amazing. I went to Lisbon, Granada & Cordoba and Morocco with ISA. Through these trips I learned so much culture and history that I would not have otherwise experienced. It was so nice to have these trips pre-planned so all we had to do was show up and transportation, hotels and food were planned out for us. However, we also were able to go off on our own and do what we wanted. We were taken care of as needed but not tied down or forced into anything, we were treated like adults and able to use the ISA resources as needed. The first day, I met some of my now closest friends. Seville is a wonderful city, studying abroad with ISA gave me an experience I am forever grateful for and will never forget.

Exploring being independent

June 28, 2024by: Jada Squire - United States

Program: Intern Abroad in Seoul, South Korea with WorldStrides

5

Overall participating in my internship helped me not only improve personally but also helped me learn more about my career path. As well as expanding my knowledge of the Korean language and broadening my view of different cultures. I enjoyed my time in South Korea, and it was bittersweet when the program came to an end. I'm glad I got to make a lot of relationships abroad and explore my individuality!

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple in Busan, South KoreaExcuriosn day with my company!

Memories of a lifetime

June 28, 2024by: Alexa Budrow - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

4

From the orientation at the Great Barrier Reef to the nonstop laughs in the dorms, I truly had the best time on the Gold Coast with TEAN. Writing this review makes me want to book another flight back. My two onsite trip leaders were great resources and very helpful when it came to acclimating to an entirely different country. Australia is an amazing country, but I believe it's the people who make the place. This program came with the best people and let me meet the greatest people. Go start your adventure!

Trip to Uluru!Kangaroos in the wild on North Stradbroke Island.

I ate until Ipopped

June 28, 2024by: Jada Squire - United States

Program: Study Abroad at Korea University with WorldStrides

5

During my time abroad I got to try many famous Korean dishes. Even with my previous knowledge of Korean cuisine, nothing beats the real thing. From eating at popular restaurants, pop-ups, street food vendors, etc. I would even recommend going to South Korea just to eat.

Lunch with the CEOs'Lunch with the other interns and the program manager.Cafe hopping with students from my company.

Explore Korea With TEAN!

June 28, 2024by: Jada Squire - United States

Program: Intern Abroad in Seoul, South Korea with WorldStrides

5

I was so grateful to be able to work with TEANEducation again! The staff is so nice, they helped me find an internship placement that best fits my description. I was able to make so many memories abroad once again! I defiantly recommend exploring the South Korea programs if it's your first time abroad

My last excursion with my company. We had a picnic at Han River!

Best Semester of my life!

June 26, 2024by: Danielle Grau - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Florence, Italy with WorldStrides

5

My experience with ISA and their study abroad program in Florence, Italy, was absolutely incredible. From the moment I arrived, I was immersed in the rich culture and history of this stunning city. ISA's program was meticulously organized, ensuring a seamless blend of academics and exploration. The staff was incredibly supportive, providing guidance and assistance every step of the way. I had the opportunity to live like a local, studying in historic buildings and indulging in authentic Italian cuisine. ISA made my dreams of studying in Italy a reality, offering personalized support that allowed me to focus on my studies and fully embrace the Florentine lifestyle. This transformative experience not only broadened my academic horizons but also enriched my personal growth in ways I could never have imagined.

Italian cooking class!

The Best Decision for Myself!

June 26, 2024by: Toni Clark - United States

Program: Study Abroad at Korea University with WorldStrides

4

I chose to study abroad through TEAN in Seoul, South Korea as a student at Korea University. During the 2022-2023 semester, living in Seoul became my new home. At first, I was alone, but as I took learning the language more seriously, and was comfortable adapting to the culture change, I was able to make lots of friends. Making friends with the natives boosted my experiences. I was able to visit local cafes, restaurants, and pop-up shops around Seoul. Also, it is hard not to indulge and spend all of your money. After living in Seoul for a year, I did not feel so much like a foreigner anymore. I was extremely grateful for the help through TEAN by making my trip and transition to arriving in Seoul both semesters easy. I also participated in the Seoul, Winter Program and hosted through TEAN during 2023-2024 at Korea University again. If it were not for choosing to study abroad, I believe I would not have developed my new goal of returning to my host university, Korea University, as a graduate student after graduating with my undergraduate.

Bukchon Hanok VillageCherry Blossom Season at Seoul ForestThe streets of Seoul are one of a kind!

Summer in Lima

April 06, 2024by: Gianfranco Beran - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Lima, Peru with WorldStrides

5

I spent a summer in Lima, Perú, and it was truly an unforgettable experience. Lima is a huge city filled with endless activities, so you'll never be bored. There's something for everyone between the delicious food, rich history, amazing art, and beautiful beaches. There are also plenty of outdoor activities in the city itself or in nearby towns. And, just to reiterate, the food is a huge part of the experience. Peruvian cuisine is on another level, with Lima being home to FOUR of the World's 50 Best Restaurants, including Central, which holds the top spot. ISA helped make this an easy and enjoyable adventure by always being just a text message away to answer any questions and taking us on several wonderful cultural activities. I can't recommend the program in Lima enough, I loved it so much that I'm doing it again this semester!

I want to go back!

April 03, 2024by: Cameron Bonin - United States

Program: Intern Abroad in Seoul, South Korea with WorldStrides

4

Hello! I am Cameron, I went to South Korea through ISA for the Late Summer, Fall, and the Winter Seasons, and it was my favorite memory and makes me want to go back A.S.A.P! Going to the country without prior knowledge of the language I was able to learn through the classes I had taken at Korea University and immerse myself quick enough that I did not struggle as much as one would think. I love food, and it was so easy to get a quick bite to eat or have a nice sit down meal with friends and colleagues, during my first week a meal was set-up through the program where everyone in the program was able to have a sit-down nice meal where we learned each other's names and ate great Korean Fried Chicken! Pro's: Food, Culture, People you meet, Overall Experience Con's: When you leave you just want to go back !

Best experience of my life!

March 29, 2024by: Ian Hairston - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

5

Spending a semester abroad in Sevilla was one of the best experiences that I have ever had. All of the staff were very helpful and made a point to get to know all of us individually. The city is very safe and I made lots of Spanish friends that I still talk to regularly now that I'm back in the States. The classes were engaging and the professors were all very knowledgable. The city is very walkable and accessible which made getting around easy.

Student Perspective from the States

March 25, 2024by: Melody Pha - United States

Program: Study Abroad at Korea University with WorldStrides

4

I am so thankful I got the opportunity to study abroad in Seoul, South Korea fall 2023. It was an experience I won't forget. I'm very thankful to have experienced it with TEAN. They gave students enough guidance, resources, and information pre-departure and during my time studying abroad. I felt ready and equipped for departure from the States. During my time, I always felt that TEAN had my back and whenever I had questions, there was always someone to go to. I think TEAN did a really good job giving international students the best experience in Seoul. All of the things I wanted to do, TEAN had already planned and thought of. The best part is that it's already paid for through the program so all the cultural excursions and activities planned throughout the semester was basically 'free'. I would definitely do it all over again!

Best Semester I Could Ever Have as a College Student

March 19, 2024by: Leonardo Vazquez - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Rome, Italy with WorldStrides

5

During my Study abroad experience in Rome, Italy I had the opportunity to not only enjoy the scenery of the beautiful city that Rome is, but get to meet new people along the way, some are in the same boat as you, and others have more experience living abroad. Coming together and experiencing a new culture with new people from different backgrounds was a special time for me. The program made sure that we had the time to explore Italy and its beautiful places and famous landmarks safely and responsibly. Not only that but since the beginning of the program, they made sure that the process of applying, to at the end of the semester would go smoothly for students. I appreciate everything that this program has done for my own experience as a student because it helped me enjoy my time the way that I wanted to in Rome.

What I love About Italy overall is that it has such great scenery all around. The program made sure that we should experience the beauty for ourselves by taking us to the island of Capri one weekend. I made such good memories there!

Experience of a lifetime!

March 15, 2024by: Alexia Mitchko - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Dunedin, New Zealand with WorldStrides

4

Studying abroad in Dunedin New Zealand was one of the best decisions of my life! Dunedin is in the perfect location, close to the beach and only a four-hour drive to the west coast, it is adorable and super safe! I made so many lifelong friends during my time studying abroad and met students from all over the world like South Africa, Cambodia, Norway and Sweden! The University of Otago has so much to offer from spike ball club to the ski and snowboarding club and there is so much to explore around the south island itself. My favorite memories were top rope climbing on Long Beach, going on weekend backpacking trips through the mountains with friends, and learning to surf with the sea lions at Aramoana! You won't regret your decision to travel here!

group photo of 4 people with mountains in their backgrounda tent in the middle of snowy placewoman hugging a statue
Alexia Mitchko video

Some of my favorite days ever!

March 12, 2024by: Savannah Vaughn - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Athens, Greece with WorldStrides

5

I had the absolute best time on my study abroad trip this past summer! The ISA representatives were so attentive and always made sure we were adapting well to the culture of Greece! The school was fantastic and the students and teachers were very friendly and accommodating! I made friends on this trip from schools all over the country and we continue to talk on a daily basis, and I was also exposed to culture that you simply cannot find anywhere else! Overall, this program is one of the most memorable experiences i have ever had and i would recommend it time and time again!!

Barcelona Fall 2023

March 10, 2024by: Karina Yamini - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Barcelona, Spain with WorldStrides

5

I loved going abroad to Barcelona so much! Upon arrival, ISA made sure we were set up with everything we could possibly need. They made sure we knew what to do in any situation we might find ourselves in and gave us resources I would not have otherwise known about. The ISA team was extremely helpful in communicating with the university I was enrolled in and making sure I had access to classes that UCLA would award me credit for. They were quick to respond to my emails and always available to answer any questions I had throughout my time. I would definitely recommend ISA to any student looking to go abroad and I would not change a thing about my experience!

New memories of an amazing experience!

March 09, 2024by: Leslie Zeng - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Buenos Aires, Argentina with WorldStrides

5

The best 5 months of my life that I have ever experience. My whole study abroad experience has been great. I learned so much from my time abroad and it has really changed the way I perceive my life and my perspective of life. I met a lot new people from different culture and made a bunch of new friends. My program director, Gabriela Gamper, made it possible for me to learn and experience the Argentine culture to the fullest. She was really awesome. The whole experience was a lot to take in at first but it becomes a lot easier to handle later. I highly recommend that everyone should take the opportunity to go or study abroad.

The best semester abroad!

March 05, 2024by: Polly Powers - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Madrid, Spain with WorldStrides

4

I've studied abroad 4 different times, but Madrid with ISA was probably my most favorite experience. I got to practice my spanish in and out of class, experience the night life of Madrid, and connect with other abroad students and create some of my strongest friendships. My apartment stay allowed me to grow so close with the other girls I was living with and my next door neighbors. We had a built in family that laughed, cried, and traveled all around Europe together. I'd do it all over again.

Best Summer in Melbourne

March 04, 2024by: Lauren Whitaker - United States

Program: Intern Abroad in Australia with WorldStrides

5

This trip was the best experience of my entire life so far! The memories that I have gained from going to Australia are unmatched. If you are debating on if you should go, just go!! I grew so much in my confidence, made amazing friends from all over the world, learned from the best of those in my aspired career, and took part in Australian culture. I also had the opportunity to attend fun sporting events, travel to other areas of Australia, and work alongside well-known athletes!

A Once in a Lifetime Experience!

March 03, 2024by: Emma Knutty - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Malaga, Spain with WorldStrides

4

Studying abroad in Málaga, Spain was an unforgettable experience filled with endless memories! I knew I always wanted to take advantage of a study abroad opportunity during my time in college but I found it difficult to find the right program for me. Once I was introduced to ISA and the programs they offered I was hooked! They offered an endless amount of support before, during, and after my time abroad. The program allowed me to immerse myself in the culture, people, and endless activities that the city, and country, had to offer. From walking the endless beaches, meeting students from various corners of Europe, and building lifelong memories and relationships with fellow students in my program, the experience was one to remember! Every day brought new discoveries and adventures, shaping an experience that I will cherish for a lifetime. Although I was only there for a month, Málaga truly opened my eyes to the opportunities that exist outside of the US and helped me in determining my future career path.

a building viewLa plaza de constitución in the center of Málaga

Summer in Seoul!

March 03, 2024by: Breegan O'Hearn - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Seoul, South Korea with WorldStrides

4

I spent July in Seoul, South Korea and my experience was like no other I've had before. I met so many lovely locals and other foreign study-abroad students. One of the most interesting aspects of studying at an international school was meeting students from places I know little about and learning from them about their cultures. There were times when our groups of foreign students attracted unwanted attention from locals in forms such as subtle picture-taking. While this was an issue a few times, it was understandable given the diversity differences between South Korea and our primarily American groups. Overall, everyone we met was super nice and accommodating to us. I found that knowing a bit of Korean was helpful for getting around and having small conversational exchanges but it's not necessary. The classes are in English and there is lots of help from the program to get students set on the right path. I loved the course I took which taught me more about Korean culture and wasn't too difficult, which I appreciated for a summer course. The TEAN program and HISS also set up activities and trips that helped to submerge us in the culture. These were wonderful and ensured that even if we struggled to plan our own excursions, there was something guaranteeing we got out. I never experienced culture shock or became homesick but many students did experience this. I would advise doing research before arriving in Korea to better understand cultural differences. It helped prepare me for my arrival and softened the effect of cultural differences. This is also important for people who aren't sure if they'll feel comfortable in the culture. Looking into the cultural differences (ie. loud speaking) can help choose the best fit for places to spend more extensive periods of time.

Nature view and a river

Experience of a lifetime!

February 29, 2024by: Leah Sokol - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Florence, Italy with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad in Florence, Italy through ISA was the experience of a lifetime. The program was in the Fall of 2023, from the end of August until Mid-December. Although I wanted to stay forever, this timeline was a perfect amount of time away from my home university at UCLA. ISA set 4 of my friends and me up with a wonderful apartment, right on the edge of the city center and the residential area. They were extremely helpful in providing us with anything we needed, from kitchen supplies to a spare key when I was once locked out! Florentines were extremely welcoming and excited to share their culture with us, making this experience more immersive and culturally enriching. The classes offered were also so fascinating and fun! I can't recommend the program enough.

Best City to Spend Winter Break!

February 29, 2024by: Camila Crespo - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Paris, France with WorldStrides

5

I never thought I would have the opportunity to study abroad, but ISA made the experience accessible and were very supportive of my needs throughout the entire process. I knew I wanted to experience the "City of Lights" at least once, and visiting taught me so much about French culture and language. I was not only in awe of the Eiffel Tower, but I was pleasantly surprised by how much art and beauty there is throughout the city, even when you're not looking for it. There was never a dull moment. I really appreciate the ISA Paris on-site staff for helping me adjust to Parisian lifestyle, and giving me the opportunity to see Paris through the eyes of locals. It was an unforgettable experience, and I hope to visit again soon!

picture with the Eiffel tower

Life Changing

February 27, 2024by: Jaya Tuggle - United States

Program: Intern Abroad in Australia with WorldStrides

4

I had the time of my life. I feel like the two months I spent in Australia were a movie. So much happened, and I learned a lot about myself and my future profession. I made friends with people that I never would have even known had I not gone. At my gym, I learned new skills like how to coach children and how to properly execute and teach different lifts. I also go to discover some cultural differences in coaching styles in Australia vs the USA. I made friends with and met some professional athletes and even sat front row of my new favorite sports AFL and Rugby. I definitely recommend it.

Best abroad experience!

February 23, 2024by: Libby Bailey - United States

Program: Intern Abroad in Australia with WorldStrides

4

I have had the pleasure of studying and interning abroad in Perth, at the University of Western Australia with TEAN and ISA. I have had the most fantastic time exploring Australia and meeting new people. TEAN and ISA has made coming over here so easy with all of the help they provided me by helping me find my internship, student accommodation, and support 24/7 while abroad. I have met some of the most amazing people not only through my student accommodation and University but also other students that are here through TEAN and ISA. I have made lifelong friendships with those students and will cherish that forever. Some of the amazing opportunities and excursions that I have been able to do through TEAN and ISA was going to Cairns in Queensland and seeing the Great Barrier Reef, I have been able to go surfing, and also watch a professional AFL game. This is just a few of the many extra excursions and activities TEAN provides for their students abroad.

happy togethermeeting new friends

The Year of my Life

February 20, 2024by: Michelle Coltrain - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Brisbane, Australia with WorldStrides

5

This was truly one of the best experiences I have had. From many of the courses having field trips to meeting people from all over the world, I truly could not have had a better abroad experience. I lived on campus and was able to be part of the community and become part of the university as well by volunteering in a lab on campus and having an on campus job. I traveled all over the country and to a few other countries as well! I was so excited for this opportunity and I now have an opportunity from the university to come back for further studies.

Studying abroad in Athens, Greece

February 15, 2024by: Monaza Mahmood - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Athens, Greece with WorldStrides

4

Studying abroad in Athens, Greece was an unforgettable experience filled with countless memories. From the moment I arrived, I was captivated by the rich history, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality of the city. The opportunity to immerse myself in such a dynamic environment allowed me to forge meaningful connections with people from all walks of life, each encounter leaving a lasting impression. Exploring the bustling streets, indulging in delectable Greek cuisine, and embarking on adventures throughout Europe added layers of excitement to my journey. Every day brought new discoveries and adventures, shaping an experience that I will cherish for a lifetime. Athens truly stole my heart, leaving me with a profound appreciation for its beauty and the invaluable lessons learned during my time there.

Studying Abroad in Barcelona

February 14, 2024by: Adriel Pupo - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Barcelona, Spain with WorldStrides

4

Studying abroad in Spain and taking an international marketing class was a transformative experience that left an unforgettable mark on my personal and professional growth. I was able to enhance my language skills, learn valuable international business insights, and mark my transition into young adulthood. I am profoundly grateful for the support that made this journey possible and will carry the lessons and experiences I had with me forever.

Summer of a Lifetime!

February 13, 2024by: Lillian Ahmadi - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Athens, Greece with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad in Athens, Greece this past summer was one of the best decisions I have ever made. I met so many amazing people and engaged in an experience that showed me the beauty of our world while being on the other side of my home. If you are considering it, do it!!

Short time but long story

February 13, 2024by: Ziying Song - United States

Program: Study Abroad at University of Sydney with WorldStrides

5

This program is excellent if you want to travel but are afraid of complete language or cultural differences. Sydney is a massive city with people from all over the world, allowing me to taste all their cultures while taking advantage of the great view of nature. The city is very populated and crowded but relatively safe and clean. There are multiple large shopping centers and restructures everywhere. There is no need to worry about transportation; public transportation is well-structured there, and you can use Google or Apple Maps to see which ride you need to take. The train can take you to farther cities, but you would need a car if you want to go into the mountains or the fields. Cities outside of Sydney are very small-town-like, but public transportation is still there. They give a beautiful coastal view in a quieter setting and local experiences. I also recommend traveling to New Zealand for a week while you are in Sydney. The flight is only about three to four hours. New Zealand's city is less populated, but the lake and green islands outside the city are where the true beauty lies. There is so much I want to share about my six weeks, but none of the words would be as good as experiencing it for yourselves. Australia has both, whether you are a city or a nature person. And if you are not satisfied with it, take advantage of the fact that you have already flown halfway across the globe and travel to neighboring countries. Some advice: Take a good and comfortable pair of shoes because Sydney is a very walkable city to explore. If you want to shop, check out Australia's Tourist Tax Refund policy and see how to use it. Use Google Maps rather than Apple Maps. Apple Maps does not show all the stores, while Google Maps shows it and the comments. There are places with low light pollution, which is excellent for stargazing. Visite Newtown because it is the complete opposite of downtown Sydney while only 20 minutes away (by bus) from downtown Sydney. If you are only going to be there for a month or so, I recommend not wasting any day indoors because you will experience something new every time you step out.

Kiama, 1hr train ride from downtown SydneySydney Cityview from Tower eyeLake Tekapo at New Zealand

The City of Love, Light, and Fashion!

February 11, 2024by: Issy Helton - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Paris, France with WorldStrides

5

Paris, France was everything I dreamt it would be and more! I studied French language and culture at the Institut Catholique de Paris and learned so much about my second home. Every day, I went to class and strolled through streets admiring the art and architecture around me. ISA was extremely helpful in getting acclimated to a new city and country, and supported me throughout the entire process! I stayed in a studio apartment and took the metro to classes, explored museums and neighborhoods, went to flea markets every week, and of course, I picnicked and watched the Eiffel Tower sparkle every chance I had. Traveling on the weekends was easy, and ISA has multiple excursions that were an incredible time! If you're on the fence about where to go or which program to choose, I absolutely recommend going to Paris with ISA! It's an experience that I carry with me every day, and I can't wait to go back someday!

My Wonderful Time in Thailand

February 11, 2024by: Ava Cuffari - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

Overall, this program changed my life for the better. Having been born and raised in California, I felt like I had been living in a bubble for most of my life. Everyone falls within the middle or upper-class economic status, is heavily encouraged to go to school, and has access to plenty of career opportunities. Before going to Thailand, I was aware of how lucky and privileged I am, but being able to go abroad gave me such a vital shift in perspective. Seeing how everyone's way of life was centered around family, community, and practicality made me realize how many Americans are consumed by the desire for material excess. Overall, I really feel as though my priorities were set straight by this experience, and being able to make friends with people who come from all different backgrounds totally validated by ability to adapt and expand my horizons.

My Study Abroad Experience in Paris, France

February 09, 2024by: Maisha Rho - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Paris, France with WorldStrides

4

Program: ISA : Study Abroad in Paris, France February 8th, 2024 I miss France, and I wish to live there with everything that I experienced during my time abroad. Paris was beautiful in so many ways. I got my first apartment there. I got my first boyfriend there. I lost so much weight from walking and running so much. I ate some of the best foods I have ever tried in my life and I went on an excursion trip to Morocco to adventure in the Sahara Desert and to understand a world that is different from my own. Man did I LEARN SOME THINGS ABOUT AFRICA! I consumed a lot when I stayed in Morocco when it came to eating, jewelry, events, trips, and spending on clothes, medicine, and spices. I went to this shop at this Leather Crafts store in Marrakech, Morocco, and I lived on the Sahara Desert for a week! We didn’t have our phones so the sun was our alarm clock and nightfall was when we went to sleep. Our diet consisted of cous cous, boiled vegetables, yogurt, and bread with salt everyday. And our drinks were either water or coke with the sugar because you NEED the calories and sugar from all the walking and the hot sun beating down on you. I went into the country not knowing what I would buy, bring back, and what I would experience. I rode a camel, I slept on the sand dunes, I tried so many spices and bought many oils for my hair and skin. I had no prior knowledge of Morocco or Algeria but it was a beautiful country and many stores I went to was decorated of beautiful colors and prints. Especially the carpets that covered the walls of the airport and pretty much every restaurant and hotel we went to. I was blown away at all of the hand-stitched carpets and the beauty of the country. AND there were cats roaming around the streets. I loved petting them all. I am a young adult and after my experience abroad I have really grown to learning so much about the world outside of America. This was my first time traveling alone. I was able to have a space of my own in Paris and I am so grateful for having that space especially after sharing a room with two siblings all my life and a roommate in college after Covid. At times I was not ready to understand that I am not a child anymore, I am an adult, although young, who can make big purchases and do big things and dream big. It was always a dream of mine to go to Paris and the fact that I got to travel too was an added bonus and it made me think that this is the life I want for myself. I want to travel. I went to a leather store in Morocco and most of the leather I felt was made of a layer of cow stomach or camel stomach or camel skin. This was very shocking to me because in America, people tend to dislike leather that is made of animal skin because it is cruelty, but outside America it’s different cultures and beliefs. The biggest shock I had when traveling to all these different countries was how much power men held EVERYWHERE we went. Every restaurant I went to was made-to-order, but they had made an exception for us because we were travelers. The staff at these restaurants and hotels were just men. No women at sight. In Morocco, women were not allowed to sit outside, go to cafes, eat at restaurants, and they were required to wear head covering and to cover themselves when outside so no one knew their identity. This changed my perspective a lot when I was living on the Sahara. We had to cover our skin and our head so we would not get burned from the hot sun and also keep many layers on because at night it got VERY VERY VERY COLDDD! We slept on the ground and used wool blankets to keep warm. This was a culture I was not expecting but in no way could I judge because this wasn’t my life. I met many nomads while staying on the Sahara and we got a chance to see ex slaves. YES, EX SLAVES who played music for us at an event while in Morocco and serves us coffee! I was shocked and speechless. No words could describe what I felt in that moment. When I got my phone stolen and my wallet stolen, I went to two different police departments in Paris. The first one did not care about me at all. They told me it was my fault it got stolen and they kicked me out of the station. They were so rude to me and the second police station just told me to write a report and that they would get back to me in three days. I never got a message from them at all. I accepted my fate and had to move on. I was grateful for the Dear Neighbor Fund because many women in my program got things stolen from them once October hit. I told some friends in my program what you all did for me and they were shocked because their school did not help them when they got their stuff stolen. I was grateful for Regis in that moment because you cared when I felt like no one else did and I was alone. This all happened when the Israel and Palestine war started and many people in Paris were stealing cars, stabbing people, stealing bikes and scooters too. Five women in my program got their phone stolen including me and I even got followed home by a random man in a cab one night asking me to be his friend. One girl in my program got her laptop stolen. One girl got her backpack stolen and this was all on the metro! Sometimes I felt like these Parisians knew we were Americans and we were heavily targeted and I was really scared. One girl got her keys stolen so she could not get into her apartment so I had to let her in and she slept with me in my room for a day before she could get new keys the next day. Hard times came but I knew it was part of the experience when you move to a foreign country and as a women I was getting disrespected by men left and right for how I looked and how I dressed. At times I missed the USA because I was never discriminated this much for being black, being a women, and dressing the way I wanted to as much as I did in Europe. I did have very fond memories while traveling to Spain and Morocco. Spain was beautiful and warm and the food was so fresh and so good. The beaches were so clean and everyone seemed to be enjoying their lives there. I went to a pottery shop and some workers asked people who wanted to volunteer to spin pottery. I offered myself to do it and I got a chance to spin my own pottery plate and it was that real workers experience in the art of pottery and how I could do it myself too. As a Black woman in a new country, I have never known or thought I would be going to a continent like Africa this early in my life and experiencing the world of Africa. I never imagined that I would be going to Spain or living in France. One thing I know for sure is that if there is a will there is a way. Traveling plays an important role in building bridges and friendship with different types of people and ethnicities between different cultures that isn’t my own Carribean Black. I did unfortunately face discrimination because of my dark skin. I was kicked out of areas because I was black. This is unfortunate because in America discrimination yes exists but it’s not so straightforward like it is in Paris. I made this realization after of course crying about it but that too was part of the experience. I researched and only went to places I knew were for women like me and that made me happy because the country was so diverse and Paris was my college campus. I tasted many foods I have never tried before and even went to a Michelin star Asian restaurant. My trip to Northern Africa was a once in a lifetime opportunity and those are memories that will last a lifetime. I bought a headscarf and many scarfs that were beautiful and decorated with many patterns that I will keep forever and give to family. Part of my identity being a Black woman experiencing a foreign country for the first time was a complex and evolving journey of me being comfortable and uncomfortable somewhere where racism exists very much and traditional roles for women were still in effect as part of the country's values. While there were many challenges faced for women outside of America, regardless, I accepted the culture as my own and I used strength, resilience, and my unique open world and open-minded perspective to purchase goods and even engage in the culture to contribute to a more diverse, inclusive, and interconnected world. Even with the negative aspects of it. Again, I am so fortunate to have been able to see the rugs and how they are hand stitched. As I left the Morocco with my carefully chosen Moroccan gifts for my mom and for friends, I couldn't help but feel that I'd taken home not just a piece of exquisite craftsmanship but a piece of Morocco itself. This experience was more than shopping and riding jeeps into the sunset; it was a sensory and cultural immersion that I will treasure for a lifetime just like I treasure the immersion mission trip to California. It's a reminder that the most exceptional experiences and purchases in life are not just possessions but a part of the story of our lives and how we felt in that moment. During my stay, I fed the homeless with my program on a Friday and spoke to many homeless men and women. I helped by giving out toothbrushes, toothpaste, and soaps and lotions. Unfortunately, we ran out of supplies quickly, but the homeless people there were rude even when we helped. Beggars could not be choosers but our team did the best we could and couldn’t judge their life or attitude towards us because we didn’t know what they were facing daily. ISA was very helpful with the negatives that I faced. I was stuck in the elevator at one point not being aware it was broken because my apartment only placed a broken sheet of paper on the first floor and not the others. I had called for someone to help and help came, thankfully, in time. When I was facing racism at school with my professors and going out for social events, they helped me switch my classes and helped me find events that were inclusive.

Maisha Rho video

A second home

February 08, 2024by: Emmalee Green - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Bilbao, Spain with WorldStrides

5

Bilbao is a beautiful city rich in culture with amazing views, inspiring art, delicious food, and kind people! The city's vibrant atmosphere and welcoming spirit allowed me to feel at home within days of arriving. The city offers experiences for everyone to enjoy: lively nightlife, picturesque hikes, world class gastronomy, and spirited fútbol matches of Bilbao's own professional team. The public transportation is in a class of its own as it is reliable, clean, and efficient allowing easy access to explore the city within or take quick day trips to nearby cities and beaches. Whether it was walking around historic Casco Viejo, riding the metro to nearby beaches, taking in the views of the city from above per the funicular, eating pintxos at La Ribera market, or simply sitting on a bench in the park, my time in Bilbao was a once in a lifetime experience with memories I will cherish forever.

Guggenheim and Deusto Univeristy by riverEreaga beachStreet in Casco Viejo

Blaine in Spain (Bilbao Edition)

February 07, 2024by: Blaine Corbin - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Bilbao, Spain with WorldStrides

5

Coming to Bilbao has been an extraordinary experience that I will cherish forever. Located right in the middle of gorgeous mountains, I genuinely felt that it was meant for people to live comfortably in. I have never felt more connected to a big city. Bilbao stands out from other cities in Spain with its fast, clean metro with direct access to beaches, mountains, and surrounding charming towns. Bilbao is perfect for nature lovers who want to be connected in a modern, safe, city. I had an amazing host family, who I still talk to after the program, which made me feel so at home despite being over 4,000 miles away.

City ViewCity ViewNature Park

Best time of my life!

February 07, 2024by: Sydney Conn - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Florence, Italy with WorldStrides

5

I studied abroad in Florence, Italy with ISA and it was truly the best time of my life! I was in a country for 9 weeks where I didn't know anybody but I never felt alone. Studying abroad allowed me to step out of my comfort zone and immerse myself in another culture. ISA allowed me to travel to other cities in Italy with other students apart of the program which helped me to meet new people and connect with others. My apartment was in the perfect location and my roommates were amazing. I would recommend this program to anyone interested studying abroad!

So Much Fun!

February 07, 2024by: Cameron Rentie - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

5

This experience was life-changing! I didn't know what to expect when I first got to Sevilla, so I came in with an open mind. That was honestly the best thing I could have possibly done. Upon arrival, the program staff and my homestay family greeted me with warmth. Although I didn't know Spanish and my homestay family didn't know English, we created a strong bond and were able to teach each other and learn from each other. I learned so much about myself going abroad, and it gave me confidence and a new perspective on how I approach life. Throughout the program I met some incredible people who I still keep in touch with today. We bonded over shared experiences and traveled together throughout Spain. It was amazing because it sort of provided a safety net and secure space, knowing that you all have shared emotions! We all had so much fun together and didn't want to leave!

Getting Out of my Comfort Zone!

February 07, 2024by: Isabella Ortiz - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Barcelona, Spain with WorldStrides

4

Before I left for Spain I was a ball of nervous but excited energy. I found out I was the only student from my university participating in the program, and I had been placed in an apartment with 5 other girls! As a more introverted person, this made me extremely nervous. In reality, these girls and this experience would change my life. Barcelona is an amazing city. It has great food, and easy public transit as well as a great mix of history and fun. I learned so much about Catalonia and its rich history in my courses, and participated in a lot of independent travel. ISA offered many fun excursions and tours that allowed me to see even more of Spain and try a variety of unique things! Barcelona gave me the best months of my life. I enjoyed exploring every inch of the city and cant wait to go back someday.

Paella in ValenciaMe and my friendPark Guell

Most Amazing Semester of my Life

February 07, 2024by: Kristina Gatto - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Sydney, Australia with WorldStrides

4

I could not have wished for a better experience if I tried! I was the only student studying in Australia from my home university so I was a bit nervous going into it, but after TEAN's orientation I already made incredible friends and felt excited and much more comfortable starting my experience abroad. TEAN's program coordinators were fantastic and made all the logistics so easy. Sydney was an amazing city and I am so grateful I had the chance to live there, I look forward to traveling back one day :)

Grateful for my time with TEAN in Seoul!

January 31, 2024by: Adrienne Povey - United States

Program: Study Abroad at Korea University with WorldStrides

5

I truly had the best time studying abroad in Seoul for a semester. There is so much to do and explore in Seoul and I definitely want to go back someday! I'm really grateful for the support that TEAN gave me, from helping me with documents and housing to picking me up at the airport, and organizing fun activities to meet new people! This was my first time traveling on my own and it was nice to have support and the TEAN community, especially when getting adjusted to a new country. They showed us how to use the subway and navigate our classes and quickly we became independent students exploring the city on our own! For school, I mainly took political science, history, and Korean language classes. The professors were engaging and I learned a lot. There wasn't really any homework, which was nice for afternoon and weekend adventures, but I did have to study hard for midterms and finals. Also, I always felt safe everywhere I went in Korea, even late at night. The food was delicious and I was always able to find a vegetarian option, which was important to me. Seoul is a great city to study abroad to learn about a new culture and meet people from around the world. I am so glad that I did and it will be a time that I will always look back on and never forget!

An amazing experience

January 30, 2024by: Catherine Lietz - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Dublin, Ireland with WorldStrides

4

My time in Dublin with ISA was probably the best three months of my life. I studied music, history, and the Irish language at Maynooth University just outside Dublin. The university was amazing with wonderful professors, lots of fun social events, and great programs and resources. I also loved the town of Maynooth: it has a great social scene, it's very clean, and I felt very safe there. The proximity to Dublin is also great because of the city itself, but also because of the access to public transportation.

I had a time in London!

January 27, 2024by: Tzeniah Frazier - United States

Program: Study Abroad in London, England with WorldStrides

5

My time abroad was absolutely amazing! I was able to meet so many people of different ethnic backgrounds through my entire time in London. I had such a great experience learning the culture and way of life in a new country. ISA supplied great opportunities to tour the different parts of London and neighboring cities, which was great for those students who didn't get out much. Being a student apart of the ISA program, we were offered the chance to make money while abroad by becoming a social media influencer, as well a becoming blogger. All around, I had a beautiful experience which taught me so much about myself and opened me up to new perspectives and understandings. Forever grateful for beingan alumni of this program x.

2 women having fun

HOME: Holding Onto My Experiences

January 26, 2024by: EliAnna Bermudez - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Granada, Spain with WorldStrides

5

This program provides various opportunities culturally, academically, and socially. Therefore, one aspect I was able to integrate myself in the community was through service-learning at a local emergency department in Vithas La Salud hospital in Granada, Spain. This allowed me to immerse myself in learning new medical ethics and implement practices that are appropriate to cultural diversity and acceptable to community needs. These opportunities have assisted me to develop compassion and leadership attributes, meanwhile, integrating cultural perspectives and language influences in my journey aboard (not to mention GREAT on a resume).

A lifetime experience!!!

January 24, 2024by: John Hutchinson - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Athens, Greece with WorldStrides

5

My experience was unique just in the choices I made such as going to a semester and choosing Greece in the first place because not many think of Greece but Paris or England. ISA is very user-friendly and friendly in person as well, I would never regret studying abroad with ISA with so many choices. I got to meet so many people from different countries going to my college, my advisors were excellent with so much advise! The dorms were manageable with people from all over the US in the dorms. I wish I could go again!!!

ISA Valencia

January 22, 2024by: Sophie Gerardi - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Valencia, Spain with WorldStrides

4

I highly recommend this program to individuals who want to experience city life but not in an overwhelmingly large city. Although Valencia is the third largest city in all of Spain, it feels extremely safe, large enough that there is plenty to discover, and small enough that it is easy to navigate and get familiar with. The numerous historical museums, buildings, and cathedrals have a ton of history to rediscover, and the beach is only a metro ride away. I especially loved the daily routine of going to the street flea markets that happen in different parts of the city every day of the week besides Sunday.

An incredibly unique location

January 22, 2024by: Autumn Derstine - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Cape Town, South Africa with WorldStrides

4

Cape Town, South Africa is a stunning city. White sand beaches contrasted with tall mountains create an adventurers dream, and University of Cape Town's campus is the most beautiful I've seen. I wouldn't go anywhere else for my study abroad.

My time in Thailand

January 22, 2024by: Thang Sian - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

4

I was in Bangkok, Thailand studying abroad for my fall 2023 semester. It was such a life changing experience for me. I feel more confident in meeting new people and traveling the world. ISA and TEAN did an amazing job helping me with application process and with all the necessary documents I needed to submit. They answered any questions I had, and made sure I was well prepared before I left the United States. We did a lot of fun excursions when I got to Thailand and I had an amazing group from our program. But there were a few things I had a bit of trouble with. So one of the excursion we did was in Krabi, Thailand. We had just arrived to Bangkok, Thailand and our program director had told us we were leaving for Krabi in 2 days. I felt so unprepared and felt rushed. I wished they would've told us the dates and schedules of excursions beforehand (before we got there), so that each of us can make our travel plans accordingly. And I wished we had more support while we were in Thailand. Our onsite program director was such an amazing person, but sometimes, it's hard to reach them. Especially dealing with VISA renewal was a struggle because we had to do it on our own, more so we couldn't really rely on our onsite program director. And I also thought they would've said our campus wasn't going to be in Bangkok. It was actually in Salaya, so about 40 minutes drive from Bangkok (depending on where you're going). The other students and I from the program had thought that we were going to be studying and living in Bangkok but that was not the case. But of course, there are more pros than cons. These are just a few things I wished we were informed on. But my experience had been so positive that the pros outweigh the cons. I highly recommend studying abroad with TEAN and to go to Thailand!

Best time of my life in Thailand!

January 22, 2024by: Samiha Sultana - Bangladesh

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

4

Studying abroad in Bangkok, Thailand has been an unforgettable and transformative experience. From its vibrant culture to the warm hospitality of the locals, this city has much to offer for students seeking a unique and enriching academic adventure. **Academic Experience:** Bangkok boasts a diverse range of universities and institutions, each offering a variety of courses. I had the opportunity to study at Mahidol University International College (MUIC), where the academic curriculum was challenging yet engaging. The faculty was knowledgeable and approachable, fostering a conducive learning environment. The international perspective embedded in the courses allowed me to broaden my understanding of global issues. **Cultural Immersion:** One of the highlights of studying in Bangkok is the rich cultural experience. The city seamlessly blends traditional Thai customs with modern urban living. From exploring ancient temples like Wat Arun to navigating bustling street markets, every corner of Bangkok is infused with cultural significance. Engaging with locals and participating in cultural events provided me with insights into Thai traditions and values. **Adventure and Exploration:** Bangkok is a city of contrasts, offering a plethora of experiences for adventure seekers. Weekends were filled with excursions to nearby islands, jungle treks, and visits to historical sites. The diverse landscapes of Thailand, from pristine beaches to lush jungles, are easily accessible, making it an ideal location for those who crave exploration and adventure. **Culinary Delights:** Thai cuisine is renowned globally, and being in Bangkok allowed me to indulge in its authentic flavors. From street food stalls offering pad Thai to upscale restaurants serving traditional dishes, the culinary scene was a gastronomic delight. Exploring the local markets became a regular part of my routine, introducing me to an array of exotic fruits, aromatic spices, and mouth-watering street food. **Community and Friendships:** The warmth and friendliness of the Thai people contribute significantly to the overall experience. Bangkok's multicultural environment fosters connections with fellow international students as well as locals. The sense of community extended beyond the campus, creating a supportive network that enhanced my time abroad. **Logistical Considerations:** Bangkok's efficient public transportation system, including the BTS Skytrain and MRT subway, made navigating the city convenient. Affordable living costs, coupled with a wide range of accommodation options, provided flexibility for students with varying budgets. In conclusion, studying abroad in Bangkok, Thailand, is an enriching and life-changing experience. The city's dynamic blend of academics, culture, adventure, and culinary delights creates a perfect environment for personal and academic growth. My time in Bangkok will forever be etched in my memory as a chapter of self-discovery, cultural immersion, and lifelong friendships.

The adventure of a lifetime in Bilbao Spain

January 12, 2024by: Liam Piper - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Bilbao, Spain with WorldStrides

5

I always knew I wanted to study abroad, but I chose Bilbao specifically because I wanted to experience the culture, language, nature, and people of Spain without having to deal with ginormous cities like Barcelona or Madrid. Bilbao is absolutely one of the most beautiful cities I have ever been in. It's surrounded by green mountains on either side with plenty of hiking and multiple insanely beautiful beaches 20 minutes away on the Metro. In Bilbao, I lived in a homestay, and between my host mom, Elena, and my program manager, Genoveva, I always felt safe. I also felt supported in my academics at the university and adjusting to the homestay. This freed me up to experience Bilbao, Spain, and Europe. I took many trips to the historic cities near Bilbao, like Pamplona, San Sebastian, and Guernica. I experienced nightlife with some great friends I met on the trip and got to eat some of the best food I'd ever had. On a normal day in the first month, I would walk across the river, with a great view of the Guggenheim, and into Universidad de Deusto, which is this beautiful European building full of smart Basque students and teachers. After my language, history, and culture classes, I would most likely take the metro to the beach with my friends, where we would relax under the sun and cool off in the Cantabrian Sea. Then we'd grab a pintxo, probably tortilla de patata, and head home to have dinner with our host parents and siblings. I will never forget all those beautiful moments I had while studying abroad, and I can't recommend Bilbao, or anywhere in Spain for that matter, enough! It's also great if you're looking to build your resume. There are local programs that hire students to teach local kids English.

stacking on top of each otherdrinking with my friend

I wish I could go back!

January 10, 2024by: Grace Davis - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Seoul, South Korea with WorldStrides

4

I had an incredible time on my study abroad in Seoul! I went to Hanyang University and I loved everything about my experience. Seoul is also very safe, and as a woman, I never felt unsafe walking around by myself, especially at night. The excursions that were included in my program were very nice and fun as well! The academic schedule and courseload were different than I'm used to but the professors are very helpful and are always willing to answer any questions! There is so much to do and so much stuff to see such as Hongdae, Myeongdong, Namsan Tower and so much more. The food is also incredible and there is surprisingly a lot of variety such as Thai food, Indian, Chinese, Japanese, and even some western fast food chains! The cafes were very fun and I definitely spent too much money there.

two dogsphoto booth group images
Grace Davis video

One of my favorite travel experiences so far

January 08, 2024by: Abigail Swanson - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Paris, France with WorldStrides

4

There is something about living in a host home and experiencing life like a local that is so much more memorable than just a tourist trip. I enjoyed my month living in Paris so much that I decided to move to London for an entire year master's program! I also can't recommend the Paris ISA team enough! They were so kind, helpful, and FUN! I tell everyone considering study abroad to look at ISA and do it while you still can!

two beautiful girls
Abigail Swanson video

Best summer of my life, and I would highly recommend a program abroad

January 01, 2024by: Ethan Ochital - United States

Program: Intern Abroad in Valencia, Spain with WorldStrides

4

I had the best summer of my life, and I would highly recommend doing a program abroad if you have the opportunity. In addition to interning, I had plenty of time to explore Valencia and travel to various other places in Europe. The ISA on-site staff were friendly and cared about the safety and well-being of participants. They also organized optional activities and trips. And they ran an optional paid overnight trip to Barcelona on two weekends. The apartment I was placed in was in a great location. I was only about a 15-minute walk from my internship and 15-20 minutes from the city center. I was also only about an 8-minute walk from the nearest metro station, which had a line to the airport. However, the apartment was worn, and it was a little disappointing that it only had air conditioning in the main living/dining area. For the most part, I did not have any issues with this. There was a fan in my bedroom, but I don't think all the fans in the apartment worked. I hear that air conditioning is less common in Europe than it is in the United States, so that is something to keep in mind in case that may be an issue for you. It was also very hot in Valencia during the summer. Additionally, there were two known instances of a lizard in the apartment. The first time there was a lizard was on the first night we were there, and I worried about what else might have been hiding there.

A picture of the living/dining area in the apartmentA picture of the dining room, with the kitchen behind itMy bedroom
Ethan Ochital video

A Service-Learning Adventure in Ireland

January 01, 2024by: Sophia Wood - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Galway, Ireland with WorldStrides

4

In the summer of 2023, I landed in Galway, Ireland to work with Galway Autism Partnership (GAP). What followed was two months of exploring Ireland’s culture, creating deep friendships, and bonding with Galway’s Autistic community. As club facilitators, my fellow ISA volunteers and I helped improve the quality and quantity of GAP's clubs and events. Galway Autism Partnership was able to execute a record 20+ camps in just over 6 weeks, attended by 120+ different participants with our assistance. Children and teens enjoyed special interest camps that highlighted dance, baking, cooking, outer space, and more. I am fortunate to have fostered positive relationships with GAP's regular attendees, full-time staff, and temporary volunteers through my program. Even today, I remain in contact with GAP managers, staff, and friends I met through ISA service-learning. In addition to working with GAP, I immersed myself in Ireland's rich culture. My ISA friends and I found ourselves frequenting trad nights, cheering on Gaelic football and hurling games, and biking along the Aran Islands. Our visit felt full of spontaneous trips to Dublin, walking around Galway's local markets, and trying new restaurants. To this day, my ISA friends uphold our WhatsApp groupchat "GAP girlies" to catch up and discuss when we'll meet for a reunion. My experience was educational and fulfilling. Often, I remember a particular camp, teen, or parent who changed my perspective on caring for such a vulnerable population. Even more so, what it means to have the honor of developing a relationship with a differently abled person. Working on special interest camps and facilitating clubs with GAP solidified my passion for helping a community achieve its goals. It also strengthened my knowledge of cultural competence and true allyship. I am very appreciative of the ISA service-learning program for this incredible opportunity that I hold close to my heart.

Group photo of 4 ladies standing beside the the gate of Galway Autism Partnership

Worth Every Penny

December 31, 2023by: Margo Maliwat - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

4

As cheesy as it sounds, nothing can properly express how studying abroad in Sevilla, Spain through ISA has impacted my life for the better. I fell in love with Sevilla, with Spain and traveling, the 3 months I spent there. There were so many great things about my experience: the freedom of being abroad, the cultural and immersion and language practice, and the opportunities to develop myself professionally with local organizations. Most of all, I fell in love with the people. The ISA Staff were all very nice and helpful throughout the whole experience, and they were all very encouraging about exploring the city and meeting new people (safely of course lol). It was such a great time that I felt I had to come back to Spain and teach for a year (and I had drinks with my former ISA professors when I visited Sevilla!). Studying abroad with ISA was the first step to accomplishing all my dreams of living and traveling abroad.

How ISA Changed my Life

December 30, 2023by: Josie Morgan - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Barcelona, Spain with WorldStrides

5

Before even entering my university, I knew that I would return to Barcelona to study abroad. The first two years were crazy — being out-of-state, living away from my parents — all whilst dealing with a global pandemic. After my freshman year, studying abroad was clear out of mind. Then comes the summer after my sophomore year of college, summer of 2021. I began having conversations with friends, saw others studying abroad again and the passion to study abroad came right back. ISA made it so easy. I took the time to fill out the application, had many different options and cities to choose from, and settled in on applying to the ISA program in Barcelona, Spain in the Spring of 2022. I remember all of the hustle, getting my passport ready, sending in all of the information to the Spanish Embassy, it was exhausting, but all worth it. In January, I started packing up my suitcases, having no expectations of what was to come. I quite literally could not picture anything about what my life was going to be like abroad. But the day came, I said bye to my parents at the Denver airport, and went on my way. Once landed in the Barcelona airport, I met floods of people coming in to study abroad and it was reassuring to know how many people I had the opportunity to meet and relate to on this adventure. My apartment was awesome, I was put with four other girls from my university, and none of us knew the other. But that’s the best way to do it, right? I didn’t know anyone coming in, but I had so many friends coming out of the program. I will say this program changed my life. Right now, if I had stuck to my original plans, I would be in law school, studying for a degree that I am not ready to attain quiet yet. Barcelona made me realize how much more there is to life, and how much time I have to settle in a career. Now, because of that spring, I am living in Madrid, Spain, teaching English, and once again immersing myself into the Spanish culture. Better yet, one of those random roommates I had became my best friend, and we are roommates once again in Spain. The International Studies Abroad program made this life I love a reality. They were so helpful to all of us in Barcelona, always available for help with classes, medical questions, and for ideas of what to do around the city. The classes themselves were some of the best education I have ever received! I had an intense Spanish class twice a week that improved my Spanish to what it is today, and learned all about Mediterranean culture, and politics. I loved the program so much that I applied to be a blogger for them, and was able to share blogs concerning places to eat in Barcelona, things to do, and helpful advice to a newcomer. I had friends in other programs, and I can say that this one was the best choice for me. ISA handled the Visa process for us, allowing for some stress to be relieved (considering that this year, I had to fly to the LA consulate myself in order to move to Madrid). This program was also vastly cheaper than my own college was. ISA planned trips for us, taking us to Valencia, Sevilla, Sitges, and Peñiscola. I loved these trips! As fun as it was to travel on my own, ISA created an itinerary for us where we got to explore a local paella cooking class, they took us to a classic flamenco show in Segovia where the dance was born, and brought me to my favorite place in Spain: the Alcazár in Segovia. Who knows if I would have ever been able to see and do these things on my own! All in all, I thank ISA for making me realize how much there is to explore, and how learning new cultures by immersing yourself in them is the best education one can get. I met friends and have experiences that I'll remember forever! I would recommend this program to anyone who is considering studying abroad, and wish that I could’ve had more time with them!

2 ladies standing while smiling

I LOVED the entire experience!

December 30, 2023by: Lena Wu - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Barcelona, Spain with WorldStrides

5

I LOVE the experience I had studying abroad in Barcelona, Spain during the summer of 2022. The application process, pre-departure & the program itself was all very well organized and the staff were very helpful and attentive to their students. I had questions and concerns and the staff were able to handle them well and in a timely manner. I really liked that we had the opportunity to travel to different cities in Spain as a group and the excursions were really fun and enjoyable. I would highly recommend ISA Spain to anyone that is thinking of study abroad in Spain.

a transformative experience

December 30, 2023by: casey shenk - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Buenos Aires, Argentina with WorldStrides

4

My experience in Argentina was something that I will carry with me throughout the rest of my life. I learned an incredible amount, gained self-confidence/reliance, and widened my perspective. The program was very good at offering a wide variety of experiences, and the value for the payment was extremely high. My program coordinator Gabriela Gamper was crucial in making the time as good as it was. I have her to thank for the quality of my experience. I firmly believe that if Everyone went abroad for an extended period, the world would be a better place.

man hanging at the rail with falls in the background

A life changing experience!

December 27, 2023by: Malina Scarpitti - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Florence, Italy with WorldStrides

4

I studied abroad with ISA in Florence January- may of 2022. I knew nobody going into this and met a group of life long friends there in Florence. The process was fairly simple with getting a student visa and filling out forms. Getting to Italy was a breeze with the programs transportation they included. The professors were always helpful and willing to give advise and recommendations. My apartment was in the best possible location, a 10 minute walk from the duomo in a very safe residence. Everyone I came in contact with through the ISA program was very helpful and friendly. I recommend every college student to study abroad, and I would do it 10x over again!

40-year-old intern

December 27, 2023by: Jessica Furner - United States

Program: Intern Abroad in New Zealand with WorldStrides

4

For my midlife crisis project, I went to New Zealand to live for almost 3 months. This endeavor was greatly assisted and made possible by my incredible ISA advisors and the global opportunity staff. They took the stress away from the process and guided me through all of the steps. I only leave a five because I was only offered one internship. That turned out to be not the most pleasant experience, and it would have been nice to have been offered options.

A life-changing experience!

December 27, 2023by: Haley Brezack - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Barcelona, Spain with WorldStrides

4

My time abroad was filled with countless experiences and memories that I will constantly think back to. Besides daily life in Barcelona with new friends, I traveled to 12 other countries while abroad. One of my favorites was an optional excursion to Morrocco over spring break with my program. The trip included about 60 students, many of whom I took classes with. We had the opportunity to experience an entirely new culture, stay overnight in the desert, try traditional cuisine, ride camels, and create once-in-a-lifetime memories––not to mention all the friendships we formed that week. It was truly an amazing and eye-opening experience! Going abroad was one of the best decisions I made and I'm so thankful that I picked Barcelona and my program with ISA!

Bad trip

December 26, 2023by: Melanie Schille - United States

Program: Study Abroad in San Jose, Costa Rica with WorldStrides

2

This was one of the worst experiences I had abroad. Everything was a poor experience. Academics were bad, living situation was even worse, food was bad, and I got VERY sick multiple times. Don’t recommend San Jose for study abroad

I had a once in a life time opportunity!

December 26, 2023by: Justyce McGuire - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Sydney, Australia with WorldStrides

4

I studied abroad in Sydney, NSW, Australia in 2020. As we all know Covid started that year, but I was still able to be in Sydney for about 1.5 months before everything shut down due to the pandemic. Those 1.5 months were a once in a life time opportunity. I was able to go in the ocean for the first time, swim in the Great Barrier Reef, snorkel, hold a koala bear and many more experiences. Despite the unfortunate events of Covid, I still would never trade this experience for anything. TEAN Abroad was very organized and helped my transition to and from Australia go smoothly. I definitely recommend their study abroad programs!

Underwater Selfie of big fish and Diver

Life Changing Experience

December 26, 2023by: Ola Awokoya - United States

Program: Study Abroad in London, England with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad in London with ISA truly changed my life. It was an eye opening experience into different cultures and ways of life. With the way the program was set up I had the opportunity to make lifelong friends, explore the city and even other countries. My experience was so good that I studied abroad twice in London and each was a whole new experience of it own. I am now a strong advocate for study abroad as I can already see the benefits it offers

An Adventure of a Lifetime

December 25, 2023by: Morgan Tobin - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Stirling, Scotland with WorldStrides

4

Going to a new country by yourself can be scary, but the beginning of every new adventure is. Along the way you’ll discover the support and community offered by ISA, lifelong friends, and a love for a country that once seemed so far away. Take the leap and book your flight.

Group Photo of 5 girls

An Experience Like No Other!

December 25, 2023by: Christopher Plummer - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Valencia, Spain with WorldStrides

4

In the summer of 2022, I had the amazing opportunity through ISA to study abroad in Valencia, Spain. During 6 weeks of living there, I had classes from 9 to 1 Monday through Friday, and then I had my evenings and weekends to explore the city and all it has to offer. I enrolled in a Spanish Cinema class and a Spanish culture class, the other option being Spanish literature. Although I enjoyed my classes, I wish there were more options. My advisors helped me plan out places to visit like restaurants, beaches, and sightseeing areas. Through the program, I also saw Barcelona, Peñiscola, Granada, and other places around Spain. On a free weekend, I was able to take a train to Madrid. I highly recommend this program to others as you can see a new side of the world without breaking the bank.

Photo of a boy with amazing scenery background

I want to go back!!!

December 25, 2023by: Molly Hauf - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Cusco, Peru with WorldStrides

4

I will always cherish my time abroad. I enjoyed my classes, but I especially looked forward to the traveling I did independently with the other students in my cohort. We built a community throughout the experience. I felt very secure in my ability to have personal needs met during my time in Cuzco. I especially enjoyed salsa classes and informal events we organized at the study center.

waterfall near Machu Picchustone llamas at the summit of Choquequirao, sister city to Machu Picchu

You WILL regret not doing this

December 25, 2023by: Abigail Todd - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Barcelona, Spain with WorldStrides

5

Although my study abroad trip unfortunately occurred during the start of the 2020 pandemic, and we were cut short, I can still confidently say those were the best 3 months of my life. Traveling to an unfamiliar place to fully immerse yourself in a new culture is an experience I think everyone should be able to have. ISA made that possible for me. Highly, highly recommend this program.

It was so fun but a few weird parts

December 24, 2023by: Julia Parsons - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Barcelona, Spain with WorldStrides

3

Studying abroad was the best thing I’ve ever done. So many good experiences. We did have so many issues with our housing, our ceiling in our kitchen collapsed and took days to repair as well as we had mice and ISA didn’t do much to help. Also I had a stalker at the end of the trip that was able to get into the apartment but that wasn’t ISA fault at all just scary.

Group of three people riding a camel

Highlight of college

December 24, 2023by: Margaret Praderas - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Madrid, Spain with WorldStrides

4

Study abroad was easily the best 4 months of my life. I got to meet so many new people from all over, since my classes were mostly with locals and other Europeans - I realized this is uncommon for a study abroad program, so I'm so glad ISA offered this!! I learned to be much more independent, while at the same time still feeling supported by the ISA team. The team was very communicative, great at problem-solving, and fun to be around! I had a wonderful host family experience and my roommate is now my life-long friend! Wouldn't change anything about this program; 10/10 recommend.

Margaret Praderas video

One of the most amazing experiences of my life!

December 24, 2023by: Hope Johnson - United States

Program: Study Abroad in London, England with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad in London was my first time in another country and it was truly everything I could've hoped for and more! I took a Global Shakespeare course and it was surreal to be in the country of Shakespeare and to learn his work while being immersed in the culture. As part of our course, we took a trip and got to see a play at the Globe. I had an ample amount of free time outside of classes to explore London and got to visit landmarks such as Buckingham Palace and the London Eye. I constantly talk about this experience to anyone who will listen! I'm currently in a field working with high school students and always advocate that they should look into studying abroad while they're in college!

The view from our ride on the London Eye!

Changed my life in the best way!

December 23, 2023by: Emily Faltys - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Barcelona, Spain with WorldStrides

4

Studying abroad taught me so much! I am a business student, so I took an international business course and a marketing course in Barcelona. Genuinely so eye opening to hear a different perspective and how different countries go about business practices and even classroom practices. Learned so much in the 6 weeks I was there. The personal growth was insane as well, can't recommend enough!

Other international students were jealous!

December 23, 2023by: Maite Montes - United States

Program: Study Abroad at Korea University with WorldStrides

5

While studying in South Korea, I got the chance to make many new friends, both from Korea and places all over the world! I made some amazing memories with everyone I met, but something that I realized I got that my international friends didn't is the extra support from TEAN. Every time I would talk to my friends about the exciting things TEAN planned for us, they would ask me more about the program and said they wished they could have had something similar. We also got extra support with logistical things that other international students had to do alone such as applying for housing, applying for the visa, the arrival process (and getting a ride from the airport to campus), and applying for the residential card. All the steps for studying abroad were difficult enough, so I can't imagine how stressed I would have been if TEAN didn't help!

A trip I would take over and over again :)

December 23, 2023by: Hanna Reuter - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

5

Participating in the ISA summer program in Seville gave me more opportunities to immerse myself in the Spanish culture, to learn the language, to visit beautiful places, and to meet new people than I had ever imagined! I was only there for four weeks, but I made enough memories to last a lifetime, and I built amazing friendships that have continued after the trip ended. I was able to visit 4 Spanish cities outside of Seville, a Spanish island, and a city in Portugal! I had so much freedom to explore with the other students, but also plenty of amazing structured activities put on by ISA. My favorite excursion was to Granada and Córdoba where we got so see beautiful historical sites, such as la Alhambra, and stay in a super nice hotel. Another great aspect of the program was my living situation. I stayed with a Spanish woman and another ISA student who became my best friend. Our host cooked delicious meals and chatted with us daily, even though our Spanish was not the best. She always took the time to answer all of our questions in a way that we could understand. As for my classes, my professors were the best! I learned so much in my social psychology and advanced Spanish courses without ever feeling overwhelmed by the workload. I am so grateful to have been able to have such a great trip with ISA!

Plaza de España, about 5 minute walk from the ISA study center

Unforgetable Five Months

December 22, 2023by: Chloe Kantola - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Valencia, Spain with WorldStrides

4

My experience was the most fantastic it could be, I was extremely lucky. My experience was great mainly because of my host family. I lived with a couple named Ana and Ricardo and I will consider them my family for life. Not only were they caring and considerate hosts, they genuinely took an interest to my life and hobbies. For example, I once said my favorite food at the dinner table and Ana made it for dinner the next night. Another instance of their kindness was when Ricardo took us to a theme park to ride the rollercoasters he used to ride with his children. Overall, my experience with my host family was beyond anything I could have imagined. All of the experiences that ISA provided me went above and beyond and I'm thankful I got to experience so many places and events through the program. I would recommend ISA to everyone and I will always have a special place in my heart for Valencia and my host family.

Group of Friends

Would do it all over again!

December 22, 2023by: Karley Deegan - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

4

I studied abroad 2 years ago with ISA and had such a great time that I moved back to Spain after college! ISA really worked to make the study abroad process and experience as enjoyable as possible. They provided tons of great resources both pre, during, and post departure and I always had great interactions with their staff. The program was really well established with tons of cultural activities and it was realatively easy to build community with other study abroad students while there. I had a great homestay experience and still keep in contact with the friends I made while abroad!

Best Experience I Could Ask For

December 22, 2023by: Sarah C - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Reading, England with WorldStrides

4

I studied abroad in Reading, England in the Fall of 2022. Everything about it was wonderful, from the housing to the assistance ISA offered. I know some other girls studying with me had harder experiences in the accommodations, but mine was lovely. The orientation and drive to Reading was nice (although I wish I had gotten some more sleep), and when I realized I had forgotten one of my medications and needed to get a refill, ISA was able to connect me to a doctor! It was absolutely wonderful, and I highly recommend - especially if you're trying to save some money. The train ride to London was only about 15 pounds and 30 minutes!

First experience abroad!

December 22, 2023by: Zane Michael - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Madrid, Spain with WorldStrides

4

Traveling was always a far off goal of mine. I thought I would need to work for several decades, retire, and THEN start to travel. ISA showed me a different route that was the equivalent cost (and ease) of studying at my home university. It didn’t take much convincing after that. An incredible semester in Madrid!

Growth

December 22, 2023by: Faith Pemble - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Madrid, Spain with WorldStrides

4

Before I studied abroad, I had some pretty severe anxiety. Not to say that Spain cured me, but my time there helped me find my voice. Forcing myself out of my comfort zone and into a completely new culture and language really boosted my confidence. If I could succeed in Spain, I could do anything in America. My Spanish improved so much and I am so glad I went. I made some amazing friendships and memories that will last a lifetime.

Spelunking in PortugalLady wearing sunglasses, a taking a selfie with a camelInspiration for Cinderella’s castle in Segovia

Best Summer of My Life!

December 22, 2023by: Alyssa Ansay - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Paris, France with WorldStrides

4

The team is incredible. As someone who has never traveled independently nor taken a single French class, I felt supported the entire time. They picked me from the airport, shuttled me directly to my apartment, and helped get me settled. They booked a variety excursions for us, so I got to see all of the highlights without spending the time researching/ booking them myself. We were given the excursion schedule ahead of time so I still had the opportunity to travel with new friends I made on open weekends. When potentially dangerous things happened in the city (I was there during week-long riots), they were great about updating us on the situation quickly and providing a list of the districts to avoid until things calmed down. My parents had complete peace of mind. Couldn’t have asked for a better experience!

Group of Girls Smiling

New Zealand

December 22, 2023by: Fredric Kabeiseman - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Dunedin, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

Possibly one of the coolest experiences of my life. Being able to travel half way around the world to a place I had heard of and seen lots about, but experiencing it was an entirely different thing. The people were so kind, especially the head of the program Dee. She was an amazing person that was so helpful and welcoming. My favorite memory from my time there was a road trip to the west coast that a friend of mine and I did. It was my first and only trip over there and wow the scenery was magical. The mountains were stunning, but the coast is really what caught our attention. Being surfers, you're always in search of perfect empty waves. Somehow we got lucky enough to find just that. We didn't know exactly where we were going, but with the little info that we had, we were able to score some of the best waves of our life. I am definitely planning another trip back in the future to stay for as long as I possibly can.

West coast of New Zealand near Westport

I had an once in a lifetime experience!

December 22, 2023by: Carly Lewison - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Suva, Fiji with WorldStrides

5

I attended the very first scholar games in Fiji! It was the best experience of my life! We attended class in the morning and then competed in various survivor like challenges while involving class questions. I became very close with many other students from all across the US and students from Fiji. I learned so much in such a short amount of time. I will never forget my experience and will forever cherish the memories I made.

The scholar games participants
Carly Lewison video

One of my best decisions!

December 22, 2023by: Lindsay Pearson - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Barcelona, Spain with WorldStrides

5

Such a well organized program and a great experience! If I could go back and do it again I would in a heartbeat. The ISA team was so attentive and I loved going into the office. The university was amazing and I felt support from everyone I interacted with.

Incredible experience!

December 22, 2023by: Abigail Thompson - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Barcelona, Spain with WorldStrides

5

I would recommend this trip to anyone and everyone. I had the best time and learned so much! It was a great experience and the leaders were always there to help out with anything we needed. It was great to be able to travel around to different places as well!

An Amazing Life Opportunity

December 22, 2023by: iztmit Solis - United States

Program: Study Abroad in San Jose, Costa Rica with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad can be new and difficult to process, especially far away from home. Being apart of the ISA group in Costa Rica was a blessing in which I got to meet other students across the country and created a whole new meaning of friendships for me, To this day I still talk to several of the peers I met while studying abroad. Another aspect that helped was my host family, there was not one day that my host mom did not care about my well-being and it felt nice to have someone take care of me while being away from my actual home, I also still talk to my host mom and miss being around her. I highly recommend studying in Costa Rica, especially during the spring semester!

Puntarenas, Costa Rica ?

London abroad

December 21, 2023by: Leah Gunset - United States

Program: Study Abroad in London, England with WorldStrides

2

In all honesty I was and still am thoroughly disappointed with this program. I was studying abroad in London and was housed in an apartment that did not even compare to what the others students had. Then once Covid hit we were sent home exactly half way through the program. I get that we needed to go home, however; I didn’t get a single penny reimbursed for missing out on the remaining two months of the trip. Not even a promise to go back in the future. I will never use ISA or have a nice thing to say about this program ever again. I keep getting emails so I figured I would respond.

It’s what you make of the situation!

December 21, 2023by: Elise

Program: Study Abroad in Valencia, Spain with WorldStrides

3

ISA US is great, I had problems uploading every single document and they helped me out once I called. Unfortunately, they only do visas for Texas or something and the Boston consulate was so terrible and I found the false advertising of ISA doing visas to be obnoxious (thankfully though my home university stepped in for the visa process). ISA Valencia did not release housing until around one week before our departure, the apartment I lived in was in a great location however all the flatware was sticky (all of it!!). The orientation right when we landed was extremely long and it felt unnecessary. We all had just finished 18 hours of travel and we were hungry and jet lagged and the office said they would give us a brief orientation. It was not brief at all, maybe it was Spain’s version of brief. My classes were harder than I had expected for study abroad and there didn’t seem to be any fun classes. The university, Universidad Católica de Valencia, was gorgeous and I met great people, but the advisors and administration was very different than what I am used to. I think it is a Spain thing and perhaps a small university thing as well. The ISA trip to Granada and all the activities were fun and it was nice to connect with the other people in the group. The first dinner was really nice, as well! I enjoyed the security of the 24hr ISA help line. It was helpful when trying to find the circuit breaker. My roommates, classmates, and fellow ISA valencia groupees totally changed my expectations of study abroad. I made great friends (every so often we still catch up), had great experiences, there were ups and downs, but overall I can say that I’m so glad that I went. Valencia is a lovely city. UCV has various locations but the majority are in the city in central areas. The bus/tram/underground train network is vast and cheap compared to Barcelona/Madrid. The Turia Park is a five-ish mile park that cuts through the city center (used to be a river, it kept flooding, they directed it south of the city, and built a park) you have to walk down stairs or a ramp to access the park and it has big walls blocking it partially from the road. There’s picnic spots, the occasional bathroom, the occasional bar, pickpocketers, group fitness classes, 2 running paths, baseball fields, 2 multi use paths, it is absolutely lovely. Valencia has some lovely historical buildings. The beachfront is amazing. Also people clean the sidewalks every single day! Thank you Valencia for a wonderful experience!

Great experience, more integration.

December 21, 2023by: emily kelly - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Barcelona, Spain with WorldStrides

3

I loved this experience, especially the excursions. The overnight trips allowed me to fully immerse and get closer with my peers. I wish there were more social activities within the program and with other Spanish/international students. This would have made my transition into a place where I don’t know anyone more comfortable. I had a great housing option close to the school. Some of my professors were amazing and valued student engagement. My favorite class was art history because of the professor and our field trips.

The Parc de la Ciutadella

Great time in Spain, but program could’ve been better…

December 21, 2023by: Shaylee Skaggs - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Barcelona, Spain with WorldStrides

3

I loved Spain so much! It was a beautiful country; however, there was a lot of things that I was not properly prepared for and that the program could’ve done better. We were made to sleep in unbearable heat, which would’ve been fine, if other students in the same program had the same conditions. That wasn’t the case & the program refused to help us. I also wasn’t properly prepared for the culture shock, and I was really scared and sleep deprived waiting for hours in the airport. Being a first-generation student, never having travelled in country much less abroad, I felt very fed to the wolves. Definitely a learning experience, but the program should have done more to make sure each student got the right resources. I was in later classes than the rest of my program and students living in the residencia as well, and it made making friends hard! I always felt on the outside. However, the culture here was so rich and I tried so many things I hadn’t been open to before. We took a trip to Valencia, tried paella, visited the aquarium, and it was great. I wished there was more program wide excursions and opportunities to meet people outside of the business program I was in. I recall two girls getting left in one of the countries that we visited, which was the result of them being robbed… It was crazy, and the program didn’t do the best job handling this situation either. Despite its shortcomings, it was a great experience. I just got the short end of the stick being first-gen, scholarship kid, so I had to figure things out the hard way!

Cultural Immersion meets the Classroom

December 21, 2023by: Bailey Buhrman - United States

Program: Study Abroad in San Jose, Costa Rica with WorldStrides

3

This was a great opportunity to study at another university. The classes were active and well put together. The student organized activities were minimal, but there were several self-driven activities available in the community where we experienced the country more fully.

Ode to Greece, how I miss thee

December 21, 2023by: Morgan Doherty - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Athens, Greece with WorldStrides

3

I have so much praise for ISA Greece, it is hard to express all of my love for the country, the people, and for the program. I will begin by saying the apartments students stayed in were small but perfect for what a college student would need! Having Greek RAs was the best part! The apartments were located close to campus (15 minute walk) near restaurants, bars, grocery stores, and the train station to easily get to Athens. The professors were not overly concerned over the academics of the abroad students, but were available if a student did have questions or concerns. The programs ISA offered while abroad enhanced the experience, and allowed me the chance to see parts of the country I wouldn’t have otherwise! I would recommend anyone who embraces newness and enjoys city life to take advantage of this program! Side note: you certainly do not need to speak Greek but I enrolled in a Greek 101 course at the University which was my favorite course

Me and my roomie!

Great Experience!

December 21, 2023by: Caroline Dodge - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Rome, Italy with WorldStrides

4

I had such a great time studying abroad with ISA. There was really great support for students and I felt super safe. The apartment was really nice and in a great location. I enjoyed the trips we went on with ISA. I would've like more class options and more organized student life.

Amazing time traveling the world.

December 21, 2023by: Rama Bedri - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Athens, Greece with WorldStrides

4

As I reflect on my time, I loved being in Greece and immersing myself in the culture. At first I very much wanted to go home and missed American lifestyle. It took a bit of adjustment but after that I had a great time.

Get Out What You Put In

December 21, 2023by: Emma Francis - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Barcelona, Spain with WorldStrides

4

Spain was the BEST TIME OF MY LIFE. The first few weeks are hard as you adjust, but I found the more that I made an effort to seek out cultural experiences and to meet people, find places in the city that I enjoyed, and push myself, the more comfortable I felt and the more I fell in love with Spain. I have lifelong friends and memories and truly wish I was back in my apartment with my (randomly assigned -- be honest when you fill out the survey! These girls ended up being best friends for genuinely life. We live in three different states and still talk every single day) roommates. I found that students that didn't try to talk much in classes, try new foods and experiences, or explore the city and participate in events were seemingly less satisfied than students that really embraced new, scary changes. You will LOVE the magic of Barcelona! Truly the greatest city in the world.

Great study opportunity

December 21, 2023by: Kathryn West - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Granada, Spain with WorldStrides

4

I did a summer intensive month and it was a great experience. I was the only person who was there for the term I chose, so it felt pretty hard socially. It was only a month though, so that was fine. The classes were great though. The professors really cared and spent time talking to me outside of class. The ISA staff were also great, and they helped me with private tutoring for topics I struggled with.

A Summer to Forever Cherish

December 21, 2023by: Simon Medinger - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Malaga, Spain with WorldStrides

4

Making the decision to study abroad in Málaga this summer was more than a good decision, it was life-changing. Whether I was spending time with my host family, studying with classmates, or simply taking in the breathtaking beauty of southern Spain, this program has given me memories and taught me lessons that will last a lifetime. If you, like I once was, are feeling uncertain about whether to commit to such a program, consider this a sign! You will not regret it.

A traditional, decorative Spanish patio.A beach in Malaga Spain The Cathedral of the Incarnation at night.

An amazing summer

December 21, 2023by: Caroline Conte - United States

Program: Intern Abroad in Valencia, Spain with WorldStrides

4

I loved the whole setup of the program. It was nice having an internship during the day and then the opportunity to experience the city in our free time. The placement of my group and the activities available allowed me to not only get close to the people in my group but meet locals as well. It would have been nice to hear about bigger group activities further in advance so we did not waste money on other plans. Other than that, I really appreciated how involved and helpful ISA was throughout the summer.

A German Program with International friends

December 21, 2023by: Cole Roepke - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Berlin, Germany with WorldStrides

4

I traveled to HWR Berlin right before the world was put on hold from COVID. This was my first international experience and I almost missed out on it from COVID. The program was a great 2 weeks in the class room and allowed for a great crash course in European business. We actually toured Siemens which was an excellent opportunity to see the power of German industry. Outside of the classroom, we visited places of extreme cultural relevance. This included air-raid shelters, the former border control between East & West Berlin, etc. These excursions taught so much about the history of the city as well! As much as the classroom and excursions were educational, I may have learned the most from my new friends! I still have kept up with one of the German Student helpers we had, chat often in a group chat with my Australian friends I met in Berlin and even have a penpal in India thanks to this program!

Some of the new pals enjoying some new food!  Freunde mit Essen!

Best 3 months of my life.

December 21, 2023by: Grace Bruffey - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

4

I am so thankful that I was able to study abroad with ISA. I went as a second semester senior, and though the process to get my school to approve it was lengthy, it was so worth it (my school had a rule that you couldn’t do your last semester away from your home campus, so I had to get an exception). I was a Spanish major, and my main goal was to learn as much of the language as I could. I stayed with a woman who didn’t speak any english, and she taught me more than anyone at my school ever did. I loved living in Sevilla, and the excursions through ISA were so fun. If you want to go to Spain, go to Sevilla. They have so many big events that you’ll love like Semana Santa and Feria. The program leaders were so helpful (MJ saved my life when the airport lost my luggage). If you have the option to go abroad, do it. It’s a once in a lifetime experience.

This Was a Dream Come True

December 21, 2023by: Reayah Lundquist - Canada

Program: Study Abroad at Korea University with WorldStrides

4

It had been a long term dream of mine to study in South Korea, and TEAN made what would have otherwise been a very stressful and scary process much easier. I was so glad to have them as an intermediate taking care of the complicated details. However, because they cater to American students, upon arrival it made more of a wedge between us and the local students. I can speak Korean almost fluently, so I tried my best to overcome it on my own, but especially with group outings, you just feel like an unwelcome, messy and loud group of tourists. I ended up doing more and having a better time alone than with a bunch of Americans.

Such an Amazing Experience! I want to go back!

December 21, 2023by: McKenzie Parrish - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Paris, France with WorldStrides

4

I loved studying abroad with ISA. The staff were amazing, so helpful and incredibly welcoming whenever I arrived and throughout my weeks in Paris. The excursions were well thought out, my favorite was the Loire Valley. Class registration was seamless and they were a huge help throughout the entire registering, housing, and traveling process.

la dolce vita

December 21, 2023by: Gabriella Dunlap - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Florence, Italy with WorldStrides

4

I adored my study abroad experience. As an individual with italian descent, my Nonno always encouraged me to study abroad, and that Florence was one of the most incredible places to further my education. My hope was to further my italian language learning, dive deep into my heritage and family culture, and learn about the lifestyle of the typical italian. I feel like Florence not only gave me the opportunity to experience that, but gave me the chance to interact with other European students around the world. I had the chance to travel to over 7 countries during my 4 months there, connect with my professors and the locals, discover markets and caffès and understand the process of making pasta and wine. The focaccia is incredible! I 10/10 recommend going abroad and experiencing life outside of your comfort zone, and a place and culture different than you own. I grew a ton!

the gals in paris!

Building confidence abroad!

December 21, 2023by: Kayley Eshleman - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Granada, Spain with WorldStrides

4

Studying abroad in Granada pushed me out of my comfort zone and taught me the beauty of being intentional about seeking out community in a new place and culture. For me, a large part of my community was found at the church I attended in Granada. My host family as well as study abroad staff and students also became part of my community. I feel much more confident in my ability to enter a new context and establish roots and thrive than I did before. God provided for me and I feel very blessed!

4 Months in Thailand: A Loving and Learning Experience

December 21, 2023by: Alessandro Noel - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

4

Coming back to America and fully reflecting on my time abroad I can safely say that this journey has been nothing short of amazing. One of the biggest things I have learned coming back home is that no matter how many pictures or stories I show/tell to my loved ones they will never fully grasp the things I experienced. In order to give a better understanding to those still deciding to travel abroad I wanted to give my honest review so that the decision will be that much easier. For this review I will break it down into three different categories which I have deemed most relevant. First I want to talk about the community and social aspect abroad, Second I will go through what university life was like, and finally I will talk about the cultural side of Thailand. Community and Social Life: Coming to a foreign country like Thailand for the first time there was a lot of anxiety that I felt before I arrived. I worried that I may not make friends, people would not be inclusive, and even feared others may not even like me. However upon arrival all of these fears would be put to rest. The first day I landed I was immediately greeted by those in my TEAN abroad program and everyone was so kind. I met my roommate for the first time and we ended up bonding over sports and video games. The next few days I acquainted myself with the other students from TEAN as we imminently embarked on an included excursion to the province of Krabi for a 5 day trip. This ended up being one of my favorite parts of the experience because it allowed our entire program to get close with one another. We went Kayaking, learned about mangroves, and went on many hikes together. Ultimately this taught me some valuable lessons. The most impactful thing to me was to push outside my comfort zone. There were many times that I did not feel comfortable, like starting a conversation with a random Thai person or jumping off the side of a waterfall. Both of which proved to be so much fun. Throughout the trip I had met so many amazing people that joined me on countless journey’s. One thing became very apparent to me, Thailand is not the most common place to go abroad but there is something about a lot of the students that choose it as a location. They seem so accepting and open which is something that I believe almost everyone has in common. University Experience: The University I Attended was Mahidol University International College. In terms of the campus itself Mahidol was beautiful. It was an extremely large campus however my classes were only in two different buildings that were right next to each other so the walking was fairly easy. There was a brand new main building that had multiple floors and used an eco-friendly architecture that allowed the rain water to fall directly onto the vegetation that surrounded the inside of the complex. The classes were all taught in English which was nice as an American student and many of the teachers and students were super friendly. Something to keep in mind is that in Thailand a large percentage of each grade is reliant upon exams which is a little different than in the states. Overall I really liked the campus and the clubs and community provide a lot of fun activities and events. Cultural Side: In terms of immersion Thailand exceeded my expectations entirely. The food was absolutely incredible. Some of my favorite dishes were pad see ew, pad thai, and green curry. The temples were breathtaking as well. I got to see the king’s palace, sleeping buddha, and the gorgeous white temple which was nothing like i have seen before. There was so much to explore as Thailand had so much to offer. I think that one of the best things about the country is how diverse each experience can be. You can go to the bustling city of Bangkok and try some street food or you can go to the beaches in the south and enjoy relaxing time. The possibilities are seemingly endless. The last thing I wanted to bring up about the culture of Thailand would be the Thai people. Without a doubt the locals were the most friendly people I have ever met. They are always willing to help out foreigners and they are so generous and considerate with everything they do. I remember one time I was trying to get off at a certain stop and one of the Thai people without even asking assisted me and talked to the driver. They call it the land of smiles for a reason and everyone is seemingly so content and happy. Throughout this journey it has taught me a valuable lesson of being happy no matter where I am in life. In America so many people are focused on getting somewhere they are not or getting things they don't have that sometimes we forget to be grateful for what we already possess. This was a very eye opening realization for me and truly encapsulated my time abroad. Although my experience was amazing I know that for some people it can be different. Some things I would recommend before coming abroad to Thailand to maximize the experience would be to have an open mind, live in the moment, and push your comfort zone. If you can be someone that can try these three things the possibilities will be limitless. In conclusion this four month journey has not only provided me with the best experience of my life but has also taught me lessons I will remember for years to come. I highly recommend TEAN abroad and this program for whoever is interested in it as it provides such a good support system especially for those who have never been outside the country. I push anyone who is considering going out of the country after reading this to give Thailand a chance because they won’t regret it.

TEAN abroad program visiting the Kings Palace.

The London Look!

December 21, 2023by: Sydeny Zeff - United States

Program: Study Abroad in London, England with WorldStrides

4

It is cliche to say, but my study abroad experience in London was one of the best few weeks of my life! I had always dreamed of going to London, and ISA was so helpful in assisting me in choosing a program and class that satisfies a degree requirement. London is a melting pot of people, cultures, and languages. Wherever I went, I felt I got out of my comfort zone and learned something new and interesting about our world. I was pleasantly surprised by ISA's involvement in my experience studying abroad. Not only did I know the staff by name and they knew me, but they were all so helpful in making sure I felt comfortable every step of the way before, during, and after my program. One of my favorite parts of the program was the various excursions ISA provided. From visiting Windsor to seeing Shakespeare's Comedy of Errors play; there was a great amount of activities to do with ISA while also taking my own time and getting to experience the city for myself. I 100% recommend ISA and specifically this program! The people and memories that I made while abroad are some that I will cherish for the rest of my life.

Best decision ever!

December 21, 2023by: Kenia Miranda - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Barcelona, Spain with WorldStrides

4

This was my first time traveling alone and I was scared because it was overseas, however, ISA made it easy for me. The housing felt like another home, and the pre planned activities saved me money and I always had a great time. I was able to meet some amazing people and experience some of the most beautiful views. I took two classes and both were interesting and somewhat easy to get to. Overall, such a great experience. I wish I would have done a longer term.

Park Guell

My second home in Milano

December 21, 2023by: Maggie Moessbauer - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Milan, Italy with WorldStrides

4

There are not enough great things I can say about the program in Milan. It was an experience that was once in a lifetime. I had the chance to study the Italian language and culture first hand with support from amazing advisors both state side and those on the ground with our program in Milan. I had the chance to live in an apartment in a residential area surrounding by Italian daily life as well as expanding my language abilities and become more fluent in Italian. There were many sponsored trips to experience Italian culture as well as visit cities and towns outside of Milan. While they were there for us in terms of support, we had the freedom to explore and learn more about the city on our own. Because of my experience with ISA in Milan, I have developed relationships with locals as well as contacts with other international students and professors. This experience and this program allowed me to learn more about myself as well as call a new country my second home and a place I am itching to return to.

me in front of the iconic duomo in Milan while exploring!

The Trip of a Lifetime!

December 21, 2023by: Charity Bankston - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Paris, France with WorldStrides

4

I had the most amazing experience that I would not trade for anything. The time I spent in France during this trip is truly something I will never forget and I hold it dear to my heart. The faculty of my program were super friendly, helped make us students feel comfortable in the new living situations, and gave us all the tips and tricks to have fun and be safe. Meeting lifelong friends, sharing this unique experience with them, and fully immersing yourself in the culture is remarkable. I encourage everyone to study abroad, you won't regret it!

Me and my lovely friends enjoying the Eiffel Tower sparkle

New experiences

December 21, 2023by: Shea Goodson - United States

Program: Study Abroad in San Jose, Costa Rica with WorldStrides

4

In Coasta Rica I experienced things that I never thought I would. All of Coasta Rica is filled with natural wonders and beautiful wildlife. I feel so lucky to have been able to see waterfalls, sloths and sea turtles. I will never forget my time there and I feel very lucky to have gone. ISA set up excursions for my group that showed us the country and prepared us for our time there.

Tianna and I watched a surfing competition on playa hermosa close to Jaco.My class on climate change visited an island off the Nicola peninsula where we were able to observe wildlifeMy friend Liza and I took a boat tour on her birthday

The Best Experience Abroad

December 21, 2023by: Matthew Abrameit - United States

Program: Study Abroad in London, England with WorldStrides

4

My time at Oriel College created some of my favorite memories. I still think about all the fun things my group did and the material we learned. It truly was something I could not recommend enough. If you are looking at studying abroad, ISA was a great resource and would highly recommend.

Best 3 months of my life

December 21, 2023by: Charlotte Vieth - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Prague, Czech Republic with WorldStrides

4

The 3 months I spent in Prague were genuinely the best 3 months of my life. Everything was sorted before we arrived and once we arrived at the airport we were taken to our accommodation. I lived in an apartment in Prague 3 with 2 other girls, and it was a great location. I know some other people in our program had a longer commute from across the river to get to classes, so I think I might have gotten lucky with the accomodation location. If I remember correctly, there was a cleaner who came in once a week. The place was fully furnished and stocked with a full kitchen. There were also transit passes (if you selected the option to have ISA organize it for you pre-arrival) waiting for us in our apartment on the kitchen table. The program also arranged a few excursions throughout the semester to Vienna, Austria, and other places in the Czech Republic. The only downside was that I went in the fall of 2021 which was still when many colleges weren’t sending students abroad due to COVID, so we mostly just had classes with other students from my college. I assume during non-COVID times, the classes have many other international students. I somehow ended up having 4 day weekends, so that allowed me to travel a lot, which was the best part of this experience. I mostly took marketing classes, but the class selection was limited because of the lower number of students studying abroad in the program due to COVID.

Great Host Family! <3

December 21, 2023by: Miho Matsunaga - Japan

Program: Study Abroad in Granada, Spain with WorldStrides

4

I had a five-month study abroad program in Granada, Spain. My most memorable experience from the study abroad was homestay! I was so fortunate to live with an amazing host family. I loved the food that my host mother cooked - I was so excited to finish school and go back home to eat her delicious food! I was also able to experience the lifestyle of the local people there. Overall, my study abroad experience has become such an irreplaceable memory that I will remember for the rest of my life :))

An Amazing Time in Salamanca

December 21, 2023by: Hannah Cummings - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Salamanca, Spain with WorldStrides

4

I had an amazing host family and the Salamanca Staff was so friendly and welcoming. I learned so much about the culture and the Spanish language! We did so many different activities and I was able to explore different locations with ISA as well as travel independently. I am so glad I chose to go to Salamanca with ISA.

This is in front of San Estaban in Salamanca

Seville = maravilla

December 21, 2023by: Anna Johnston - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

4

I had an excellent time in Sevilla. My host home pairing was the highlight of the trip. I still keep in touch with my host mom. We also got a great orientation to the city the 2nd day we were there. It was a great way to do the touristy things first so then we could explore on our own the rest of the time. I highly recommend going to Sevilla. And am grateful for ISA’s host home pairing.

My host mom, her grandson, and my roommates.

Memories for life

December 21, 2023by: Karina Stork - United States

Program: Intern Abroad in Australia with WorldStrides

4

I had a wonderful experience, with some of my favorite parts being those provided by ISA. Orientation in Cairns was a once-in-a-lifetime experienced and remained a highlight of my semester abroad, especially exploring the Great Barrier Reef. My encouragement to others would be to take advantage of every opportunity, especially those provided by ISA.

Loved it

December 21, 2023by: Jasmine Chen - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Amsterdam, Netherlands with WorldStrides

4

I had a great time studying abroad with ISA. They took care of all the logistics so it was a smooth transition and I was able to focus on having fun in Amsterdam with a side of studying ;) The VU had many classes that fit into my preexisting biology major, so I was able to get the credits I needed. It was really easy to make friends both within the ISA program, as well as within the building we stayed in, since many other people studying abroad also lived there. I will always remember the adventures I had in Amsterdam and beyond with my friends, and am still in touch with many of them today!

The one with the history

December 21, 2023by: Karli Orn - United States

Program: Study Abroad in London, England with WorldStrides

4

I thought I didn't like learning about history. However this experience taught me so much and I have learned so many things! I also love the people I met and the experiences I got to have! And the ISA group was so amazing and so helpful!

Shakespeare globe

I found the city I want to live in forever!

December 21, 2023by: Jordyn Smith - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Perth, Australia with WorldStrides

4

Going to Perth I had no idea what to expect. I went in knowing nobody but ended up with more friends than I could imagine. Before studying TEAN had us meet in Cairns for a week to meet other people in the program. I made friends that went to Murdoch as well and I hung out with them every week; even the ones that went to Sydney became close friends as I saw them throughout the semester. In Perth I was quickly immersed into every day life which I loved. Me and some TEAN friends along with others I had met went on lots of road trips and camping trips all the way from Esperance down south to Karijini waaaaay in the outback. Through TEAN I was able to surf and explore the island right off the coast of the city. As for classes, it was a rough adjustment from school in the US, but my TEAN advisor was very helpful through every step. Although I didn't need to use my health insurance, it was nice to know it was there if needed.

TEAN group in Perth for spring semester 2023. 

From left to right: Jerry Slowinski, me(Jordyn Smith), Elizabeth Bailey, Bob Chapel, Ben Libby.

Must go back

December 21, 2023by: Greg O’Connell - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Galway, Ireland with WorldStrides

4

Unbelievable experience! Would do anything to go back. Galway is such a great city and there is no shortage of fun to be had. The university staff and study abroad staff are extremely welcoming and I couldn’t have asked for a better time.

A once in a lifetime experience!

December 21, 2023by: Julia Kubiak - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Florence, Italy with WorldStrides

4

Studying abroad in Florence was a transformative experience that left an indelible mark on my life. The city's rich history, stunning architecture, and warm hospitality created the perfect backdrop for exploration. Wandering through narrow alleys and stumbling upon hidden gems like local markets and artisan workshops allowed me to truly immerse myself in the local culture. The people of Florence welcomed me with open arms, making me feel like a part of their community, and the Italian language courses added an extra layer to my cultural journey, fostering deeper connections with locals. Studying abroad in Florence not only enriched my cultural experience but also played a pivotal role in my personal and professional growth. The academic environment, coupled with the unique cultural context, provided me with a holistic education that transcended traditional classroom boundaries. Academically, the Italian language courses not only equipped me with a valuable skill but also enhanced my communication abilities. Learning to navigate daily life in a foreign language fostered adaptability skills that have proven to be helpful in various aspects of my personal and professional life.

Woman sitting in a ledge beside the Arno River

Experience of a lifetime

December 21, 2023by: Catelyn Cox - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Paris, France with WorldStrides

4

My study abroad program in Paris was amazing. It was my first time out of the country and the staff and host family made it an easy transition. I learned so much at the Catho and my professors were very nice and were passionate about teaching. I also loved the city and history as well as being able to see so many monuments and museums in one place. It was an experience I’ll never forget.

Night out by the Eiffel Tower

Studying in Costa Rica: PARADISE!!

December 21, 2023by: Addie Johnson - United States

Program: Study Abroad in San Jose, Costa Rica with WorldStrides

4

I absolutely loved my time studying in Costa Rica! I was able to explore the country almost every weekend and meet great people through the program! I loved being in the city because it allowed me to meet locals who I will never forget. A couple of my classes had field trips to nature reserves as well as to Caño Island which was definitely the highlight of my stay. I stayed with the best host family, they were so welcoming and my Mama Tica made delicious breakfasts and dinners each day. Getting to practice my Spanish was nice especially since Ticos are so patient and kind!

Wonderful cultural and language immersion.

December 21, 2023by: Grace Tiberi - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Barcelona, Spain with WorldStrides

4

The program truly allowed me to immerse myself in the culture of Spain and to practice my Spanish. I left feeling much more confident in my language skills! I enjoyed the school that we were hosted in and the professors were wonderful!

Life changing experience.

December 21, 2023by: Grace Johnson - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Florence, Italy with WorldStrides

4

My time abroad was full of ups and downs. There was a lot of adjustments that I had to make. Studying abroad was one of the best choices I have made. I learned so many different life lessons that I will continue to build off of. This experience is something that I still look back on and reflect. All the different cultures that I was exposed to and opportunities I had are something I will never take for granted.

My last night in Florence, Italy. Made so many amazing and lifelong friends during my time abroad.
Grace Johnson video

Life changing

December 21, 2023by: Kwani Taylor - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Athens, Greece with WorldStrides

4

This experience was immersive and amazing. Having the opportunity to experience new people, places, and things with the help and support for the ISA staff was the perfect balance to feel comfortable and explore and learn the city.

Woman sitting in small bell tower

Best four months of my life

December 21, 2023by: Emma Caponetto

Program: Study Abroad in Athens, Greece with WorldStrides

5

I had the most fulfilling and enriching time while abroad. Not only was I able to learn about Greek culture and see all of the beauty the country had to offer, but I truly made lifelong friends through this program. I will never forget the memories I made on the field trips, cultural immersion experiences and even just in my classes and down time w students in my program.

Ecstasy

December 21, 2023by: Elijah Boykoff - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Granada, Spain with WorldStrides

5

Granada. An absolutely surreal place. The things I would do to live there again exceed mental capacity. The program directors in Granada are so kind and helpful, they help you with anything you need. Angel is the man!

A life-changing experience

December 21, 2023by: Madeline Caughron - United States

Program: Intern Abroad in Australia with WorldStrides

5

This program reinforced my love for trying new things and meeting new people. I made lifelong friends from the program and from my workplace, I was able to visit somewhere I had always wanted to go, and I grew as a person and as a young professional. I truly wouldn’t trade this experience for anything and I will continue to recommend it to people.

Lady smiling in a beach

Awesome program director, loved my experience.

December 21, 2023by: Lilah Meekins - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Buenos Aires, Argentina with WorldStrides

5

I had an amazing time. Pre-program, there were lots of materials to look at and guidance on insurance and safety measures which was very useful. I emailed with the on site program director, Gabrielle Gamper before flying into AR and got a lot of helpful advice. While I was there, she treated me to lunch individually to check in with me when I was feeling homesick, sent me grocery and empanada deliveries when I was quarantining with covid. (I got Covid while abroad when I traveled by plane to northern Argentina for a vacation and had to quarantine for 10 days or so, and ISA was very helpful and Gaby was so kind and thoughtful. I loved my homestay and that ended up being one of the best parts of my experience. However, I had some friends who didn’t end up loving their homestay families and ISA was very accommodating and moved students around as necessary with the students best interest in mind. The planned excursions were highlights of my trip and I loved all the different places we went: Eva Perón Museum, Delta River, Iguazu Falls, Recoleta Cemetary, the MALBA (museo america latina buenos aires), San Telmo mercado, a gaucho ranch, and more.

Famous Floralis Generica moving statue with the ISA group on a tour.In front of the Obelisco after visiting the Teatre Colon with some other students.In La Boca neighborhood on the famous walkway ‘el caminito’

An Unforgettable Semester!!

December 21, 2023by: Morgan Maras - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Barcelona, Spain with WorldStrides

5

ISA Barcelona was an absolutely incredible program to go through and I will continue to recommend it for anyone considering going abroad or struggling to find a program. They were extremely informative about events going on, providing accurate information, and being so welcoming to living a semester abroad. They were incredible with helping me transition as I needed dental surgery abroad setting me up with a translator, and being a shoulder to lean on being so far away from home. They are the best and I couldn't recommend their program and staff enough!

An experience I will never quit talking about!

December 21, 2023by: Natalie Johnson - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Florence, Italy with WorldStrides

5

This summer I had the amazing opportunity to study abroad in Florence. I went not knowing anyone and was paired with three roommates. This program changed my life. Not only was I supported by the staff and my roommates, I was left with lifelong friends and memories. ISA offered many trips and experiences that I took advantage of, traveling to Rome, San Gimignano and more. This was especially exciting as I have not left the country before studying abroad. The classes taught me a lot about what I want to do with my future. I even had the opportunity to work in the student-ran restaurant. In the restaurant, I learned how to properly manage a restaurant while also making new friends. I celebrated my 21st birthday halfway through my time in Florence. I was scared I would miss celebrating my special day without my friends from home and my family. However, my friends in Italy and roommates made it the most perfect celebration of life I could have asked for and I haven’t felt so special in my life. The people, the culture and the food were only a part of what made this the best experience of my life. I found myself there and was allowed to be nothing than myself. I wouldn’t trade the experiences I had or the friendships I made for the world! Coming home was bittersweet, and if you know me, you’ll know that I continue to talk about these memories everyday. I cannot wait to visit Florence again in the future!

My roommate and me at Piazzale Michelangelo in Florence!
Natalie Johnson video

Best 6 weeks ever!

December 21, 2023by: Kiersten Conroy - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Rome, Italy with WorldStrides

5

I had the best experience ever. I was so nervous and all the staff felt like home. They had everything planned and were always there if we had any questions. They gave us their contact information if we need anything and would answer right away and we’re super helpful. I would go back 100 times if I could

Me and my roommate on our weekend excursion to Sorrento

It was just what I wanted from study abroad

December 21, 2023by: Peter Vanchiere - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Madrid, Spain with WorldStrides

5

From the minute I arrived in Madrid, all the ISA staff was super friendly and helpful. They did a great job preparing us during the orientation, and all of the excursions were well done yet we still had plenty of time to do our own thing. I would do it again in a heartbeat and really can’t complain about any aspect of the experience. I lived in an awesome residencia with local Spanish students as well as a few other program members. I was able to learn a ton of Spanish over the semester by making friends in the residencia and the intercambio program that ISA set up for me.

I had an amazing time immersed in new culture!

December 21, 2023by: Alyse Wierzbicki - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Buenos Aires, Argentina with WorldStrides

5

My trip to Buenos Aires, Argentina was amazing. I spent five weeks there and completed the medical Spanish immersion program. This was a great opportunity to shadow doctors and learn about healthcare in a different country. I learned many Spanish medical terms and spent time watching doctors care for patients in the ICU, urgent care, the operating room, and the pediatrics unit. Aside from the educational part of the trip, ISA did a great job of planning excursions and activities to ensure we were fully immersed in the Argentine culture. Some of my favorite things we did included a tango class, a trip to a ranch where we rode horses and had “asado”, and a boat trip to the port with a great meal. My friends and I also planned our own trip to Iguazu Falls (one of the 7 wonders of nature). Overall, ISA did a great job ensuring we had good host families (I loved my host mom), lived in safe areas, and most of all made sure we connected with the students who were also on the trip (along with the locals). I made great friends during my program and still keep in touch with them!

Visiting Iguazu Falls, Argentina!

Where I made some of my favorite memories

December 21, 2023by: Liberty Tyus - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Madrid, Spain with WorldStrides

5

Having never left the US, I wasn’t sure what to expect from abroad. This experience helped me to become more confident in my ability to travel, work, and live on my own. I made lifelong friendships and memories that I will never forget. I can’t wait to go back to Madrid!

Everyone should study abroad!

December 21, 2023by: Meghan Bryan - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Barcelona, Spain with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad through ISA was the best decision I have made. The courses were engaging and had direct applications to real businesses and current events! I made great friends, ate amazing food, and made many new lifelong memories.

Summer session 2 ISA Valparaíso

December 21, 2023by: Jacqueline Griffith - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Chile with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad with ISA was one of the best experiences of my life. I was originally set to study in Buenos Aires, AR, but due to low enrollment the host institution cancelled. However, ISA was beyond helpful: they notified me immediately and provided me with multiple other scenarios. (Receive a refund, postpone to another semester, study abroad in another Latin American country and informed me of the available options, or study abroad on another continent and informed me of who to contact.) While it was a lot to take in, my questions were answered immediately and I felt understood. This alone made ISA stand out as a communicative and professional company. While abroad, I had the time of my life. The orientation helped us get to know one another well and all of the activities and excursions helped us get to know the area. Living with a host family was lovely and I would not trade these memories for the world.

The best decision I made in college!

December 21, 2023by: Cate Olander - United States

Program: Study Abroad in London, England with WorldStrides

5

I absolutely loved this program. They gave us the experience of taking a class at the University of Oxford, as well as lots of planned events for us to explore the culture and city. There were 2 events every day, plus class, so it kept us busy but we also had some down time/free time to do whatever we wanted. Everyone at ISA and Oxford was extremely welcoming and hospitable. I would do this trip again if I could, and I highly recommend anyone who’s able to do it!

A Dream living in Salamanca!

December 21, 2023by: Alexandra Markoff - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Salamanca, Spain with WorldStrides

5

Amazing experience very well planned and organized. The ISA staff were warm, welcoming and accommodating. Salamanca is beautiful and in the heart of Spanish culture, food and activities! If immerse yourself in one of the most historic locations in Spain, Salamanca is rich in history, the city is not too big nor too small, a perfect location to live in a new and unfamiliar world!

Best 6 months ever

December 21, 2023by: Adam Quinto - United States

Program: Study Abroad at University of Sydney with WorldStrides

5

I truly had an incredible time in Australia. The program that I was on was honestly incredible as offered many incredible perks, including the first week in the Great Barrier Reef! The staff that were in charge were absolutely incredible, and it was so accommodating, and really set us up for success while we’re there. They were constantly looking out for us and checking in on us, making sure that we are nursing ourselves on the culture and pushing us to do things we’ve never done before. The first week in the Great Bareier Reef was absolutely incredible, and we were able to get a really great gauge of Australian culture and history. The university of Sydney was an absolutely incredible university, and it was so nice to experience a different culture at school, and a different way of life. Me and all of my classmates absolutely loved Australia. We all came back to America believing that this is one of the best things that just happened to us, and we truly felt like this experience shaped us, and hope this really grow as individuals in the world.

Me and my TEAN mates celebrating a birthday!

The best program I could have asked for.

December 21, 2023by: Luke Schmiesing - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

5

Coming to Seville I had never lived abroad before. However, this program made the experience safe, comfortable, enriching, and most importantly fun. The accommodations, leaders, professors, and peers were all so supportive and kind. I could honestly not have asked for a better experience in any regard.

The most pivotal experience of my college life!

December 21, 2023by: Terisa Phonxaya - United States

Program: Intern Abroad in Seoul, South Korea with WorldStrides

5

I knew I wanted to study abroad at some point during college, but when when the whole world closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic during my spring semester of my freshman year, I lost hope in that dream. However, I was able to achieve this milestone when I attended study abroad information sessions and connected with our study abroad office. They directed me to a portal full of all types of programs from around the world. I knew I wanted to go to Asia, and I could only afford a summer semester. Eventually, I narrowed my desired country down to South Korea, in which I chose ISA Abroad's internship program. I mainly chose to be an intern over enrolling in classes because of affordability and I didn't need to earn any more credits. I wanted to graduate at the same time as my peers in May 2023, so it made more sense to experience this opportunity in a different way. I also loved the idea of feeling like I was living and working in a foreign country almost independently. From start to finish, the program was exactly what I needed to grow as a student and a young adult. I made numerous connections and friends once I returned home, and I felt a new sense of self efficacy in myself. A lot of the friendships I made were also possible due to the few field trips we took as a whole. The staff of ISA were also very helpful from when I first applied all the way to the end of the program. There was a tremendous amount of support for us without any sort of micromanaging or infringement on our autonomy. Even when students began getting sick, our supervisor was able to take us to clinics and pharmacies. Personally, my match with my employer was incredible! I learned so much about marketing and travel agencies, but most importantly, I learned a lot about Korean geography, history, and culture. I couldn't have asked for a better boss and coworkers! There were some downsides to this program. We did not live in apartments located based on our companies like we were initially told, which I was actually very excited about. Consquently, my commute was an hour away from our hotel. At times, there were moments where the amount of work I did compared to interns at different complanies felt unfair, but I understand this isn't necessarily ISA's fault. It went the same for the hours I worked compared to peers because I didn't have as much freedom in my schedule. Despite it all, I still had an amazing and fulfilling experience through ISA's intern program. This entire summer has permantly shaped who I am. I would do it all again if I could!

Visiting the infamous Starfield COEX Mall!

Best Trip Ever

December 21, 2023by: Trevor Martin - United States

Program: Study Abroad in London, England with WorldStrides

5

My study abroad adventure in London was hands down the best trip ever. From impromptu picnics in Hyde Park to late-night discussions with fellow students over spicy curry in Brick Lane, every day was a new highlight. The experience not only broadened my perspective but also introduced me to a diverse network of friends and professionals. London became more than a city; it became a hub of memories that will forever shape my personal and professional journey.

The best experience I could have asked for!

December 21, 2023by: George Kerg - United States

Program: Study Abroad in San Jose, Costa Rica with WorldStrides

5

Before studying abroad I studied Spanish for some seven years. Nothing could have prepared me for all the challenges of studying abroad. It was challenging but ISA gave me all the resources I needed to succeed and get everything out of the experience that I wanted and more! My host family and I built an amazing relationship and we still talk to this day. I am actually flying to see them soon. This experience was a blessing and ISA was the program to go through. When there was an issue with my debit card the program directors made me their top priority and helped me navigate the issue and they were so friendly. I can honestly say that studying abroad with ISA gave me all the opportunities I had wanted.

Man holding a surfboard in a beachCataratas on the way to see La Fortuna

Semester in Seoul

December 20, 2023by: Sophia Travis - United States

Program: Study Abroad at Korea University with WorldStrides

4

My experience in Seoul was absolutely fantastic, and the experience was made even more enjoyable by working with TEAN. They take care of all communication with your home and host schools, transfer your transcripts and even help you apply for your visa. They also pick you up from the airport and plan excursions. Seoul is a beautiful city with lots to do and amazing food. Korea university offers amazing classes and you experience such a fun sense of pride going to such a fantastic school. I would definitely recommend Seoul for studying abroad.

Temple Visit in Busan

Amazing for the Seoul!

December 20, 2023by: Andrea Guadarrama - United States

Program: Study Abroad at Korea University with WorldStrides

5

I'm not sure where to start. My first time studying abroad and even flying alone for the first time was with TEAN. TEAN helped me throughout most of the process, I was not hesitant to ask questions from the advisors. TEAN staff were extremely kind and helpful, especially while abroad. I would get lost in the subway and ask for help or language barrier issues on the subway machines and the TEAN staff were quick with their response. The cultural events in TEAN were great and even though one of the events were cancelled due to rain, they were able to quickly schedule another event and even refunded the people who were only 4 week program (because it was cancelled during their last week.) The process was easy, I definitely would recommend TEAN especially if this is your first time leaving the country alone. I was nervous, but TEAN helped those nerves.

A Summer to Remember- 2022

December 19, 2023by: Barbara Batista Badoca - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Madrid, Spain with WorldStrides

4

My exchange student program in Madrid, Spain, was nothing short of amazing. From the moment I stepped into this vibrant city, I was captivated by its unique blend of history, culture, and sheer liveliness. The warmth and hospitality by ISA were beyond my expectations, making me feel like a part of their family. Our daily interactions not only improved my language skills but also gave me a deep appreciation. Academically, the program was both challenging and enriching. The courses offered a fascinating insight into Spanish history, art, and society. The academic environment, coupled with engaging discussions with fellow students, enhanced my understanding of the country. The weekends were filled with exciting excursions to nearby towns and cities, each offering a new facet of Spanish culture. Whether it was the majestic architecture of Toledo or the beachside allure of Valencia, every trip was a unique opportunity to broaden my horizons. Of course, no review of Madrid is complete without mentioning the iconic landmarks like the Prado Museum and Retiro Park. These cultural treasures, coupled with spontaneous street performances and bustling markets, added an extra layer of enchantment to my overall experience. All of these places had ISA directors or assistants to better guide and inform all students if they had any questions or concerns. As I reflect on my time in Madrid, I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the friendships made, the memories created, and the personal growth I experienced. Madrid, with its perfect blend of tradition and modernity, made my exchange program an unforgettable chapter in my life. It's a city that will forever hold a special place in my heart, and I am immensely thankful for the incredible journey ISA provided.

The two cities I visited with ISA were Toledo and Valencia. My favorite was Valencia because of the incredible food and there I had the opportunity to do paddle boarding, an activity I would never have chosen to practice. I loved it so much that I diThis day my group and I had four different types of Paella. Some of the girls had the experience of trying this delicious food for the first time, I had the best time with them.
Barbara Batista Badoca video

I will never stop talking about it!

December 18, 2023by: Alyssa Boback - United States

Program: Intern Abroad in Seoul, South Korea with WorldStrides

4

I spent 8 weeks interning in Seoul during summer of 2022 - it was the best thing I've ever done and I still talk about the experience! I'd never left my home country before, let alone by myself, but I never felt worried because the ISA team did a great job preparing us for the trip. They gave us very clear instructions for arriving at the airport and even arranged private transportation to the hotel. We were in a fantastic location right next to a subway station and had access to so many things right outside the hotel: convenience stores, restaurants, boutiques, and K-Beauty shops galore! The pandemic made it really hard to meet people in college, but the program gave me the chance to make some lifelong friends. Some of them were from the same university as me, which made transition back home a lot easier. My group became friends from day one and we did everything together, whether it was drinking soju and playing card games in each other's hotel rooms, hiking in a misty forest, getting lost in gigantic malls, sharing many baskets of Korean fried chicken, touring the DMZ, or cramming ourselves into sweaty karaoke rooms. But making friends was only half of the experience. My internship was close by and I worked about 45 hours per week. It sounds like a lot, but there was plenty of free time after work and on the weekends to explore the city. As a social media intern, I enjoyed not having to sit in the office all day every day. I helped my coworkers with off-site video shoots and toured historical sites with them, but my favorite work assignment was vlogging my experience at a raccoon cafe! It was definitely not something I would've been able to do back home. I also loved getting to know my coworkers despite the language barrier; we had so many valuable and eye-opening conversations about culture, politics, and history. They treated us to lunches every day at local restaurants, as well as dinners, drinks, and even a movie! They threw me a going away party on my last day which was so special to me. I miss them terribly, but we still follow each other on social media. I plan on going back to Seoul someday and I'm grateful to have them as contacts there. I could go on forever about how fantastic and life-changing my experience was. It had such a great impact on my life that I based my final project in college about it. I will forever treasure the things I learned about myself during those those 8 weeks in South Korea. It made me a stronger and more adventurous person and I wish that I could live it all over again.

Digging down under: why I loved my experience in Australia

December 16, 2023by: Ella Scoville - United States

Program: Intern Abroad in Australia with WorldStrides

4

My experience working with ISA & TEAN to make my goal of studying abroad a reality was fantastic. The chance to intern abroad in Melbourne, Australia exceeded all my expectations in the best way, and truly changed my life. Working with Xena throughout the entire process made everything incredibly easy, and I cannot thank her enough for all her efforts in making this the most enjoyable experience. She is a wonderful human who made the transitions and travel happen seamlessly, and will always be a mentor and friend. I have never been to a place like Australia, and I instantly fell in love, feeling right at home exploring the wonderful city of Melbourne. The people of Australia are the most genuine, easy going, and welcoming I have ever encountered, and the way of living is breezy. The differences in culture was eye-opening, and sparked my desire to see the world and be everywhere. My internship placement was the best and most unique work experience I have had yet, as a student physiotherapist intern with Prahran FC, a local footy team. I learned so much from my supervisor and got to do hands on work with the players that I otherwise would not have while interning in the U.S. The staff, team and everyone was so welcoming, and allowed us to participate in their club traditions like weekly dinners, post-game socials, and the mid-season gala. Working with the players provided me with the opportunity to interact and learn so much about Australian culture in an organic way that I otherwise would have missed out on. Overall, the entirety of the experience was absolutely extraordinary, and I would recommend it to anyone who is considering going abroad. This experience was exceptional in so many ways, and I cannot thank ISA/TEAN enough for all their hard work and effort into making my time down under the best it could possibly be.

Game day at the oval with Prahran FC!2 Ladies walking to the beach in a windy dayRiding the tram in style with new friends (we love Melbourne!)

Beyond my wildest dreams

December 16, 2023by: Sara Gallego - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Wellington, New Zealand

4

This semester was by far my favorite out of all I’ve done. New Zealand is the perfect place to really find yourself, connect with nature and culture. From hiking (or as they say tramping) to learning about Māori culture, I feel as though I got everything I wished for and more out of this experience. You have enough freedom to get up and go on a roadtrip to a lighthouse across the island and stop to see the Milky Way but enough support to get help if you need any. I cannot express how much I recommend Wellington to anyone. It’s a perfect in between point for the North and South Island. One weekend my friends and I hopped on the ferry and went to Kaikōura to go whale watching. There’s access to everything and anything you want with the city right there (in a very manageable size) and nature in your backyard (quite literally too).

Study in Thailand -- you won't regret it!!

December 16, 2023by: Alexis Holewinski - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

4

Studying in Mahidol University International College in Salaya, Thailand through TEAN was truly a one-in-a-lifetime opportunity. The program provides you with a view of the country that foreigners rarely otherwise scratch the surface of, since you study in the suburbs, conduct activities in the city, and complete orientation and a final trip in the rural north and south of the country. The TEAN program provides enough structure so that you are prepared for the adjustment and have a built-in support network, but leaves you with enough free time to follow your own travel and extracurricular interests. Having a program director who lived in Bangkok also greatly eased the transition, and made searching for medical care, etc. much easier for my few friends who needed those services. I really, truly believe studying in Thailand was the best choice I've ever made.

Best 4 months ever!

December 16, 2023by: Saunders Carlson - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Amsterdam, Netherlands with WorldStrides

5

I had the best time studying abroad in Amsterdam. I chose it because I knew fewer students went there, and I'm so happy I did because I felt like I had a more personalized experience, which was exactly what I was looking for. There were only 9 students in my program, so I got the opportunity to become close with each of them, along with our program director. The experiences included in the program were once-in-a-lifetime opportunities that allowed me to explore a new city and culture while still learning and having fun. The housing was great! Even though it was a metro ride from the city, it was a quick trip and I loved living alone, but near all my friends, with restaurants and grocery stores a short walk away. I was also able to travel all around Europe while studying abroad, and while I loved exploring new places, I was always happy to come back to Amsterdam as it felt homey and safe to me while I was there.

Study Abroad (Covid’s Version)

December 16, 2023by: Kayla Valeri - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Perth, Australia with WorldStrides

5

My New Year’s resolution for myself in 2020 was to get out of my comfort zone. I nicknamed this year “my year of yes”. My one rule? If presented an opportunity, I would say yes. And that is exactly how my year started. Whether it was saying yes to a random spur of the moment road trip with my best friend or deciding to ski one day when I had never touched a pair of skis before in my life, my answer was always going to be a yes. But my favorite ‘yes’ was actually at the end of 2019 when I decided that 2020 would be the year I would go abroad. I remember going straight to my university’s study abroad office the moment I got this idea in my head. I took all the brochures and made a list ranking them in order. After many hours and lots of research I had “narrowed” my list down to Galway, London, and well, all of Australia. So what did I do? I flipped a coin, and what the coin said I did. I spent the first week of February packing up my life into two big suitcases and saying my goodbyes to my friends and family. When the morning of February 10th came I was nervous, yet overwhelmed with excitement. I hugged my dad goodbye at the airport and walked towards my gate with my freshly issued passport in hand. I boarded the plane and waited patiently for the flight to take off while I tried to wrap my head around the fact that in just 53 hours I would be stepping foot into Australia for the first time. From the moment that I landed at the Cairns Airport, my TEAN family was there to make my experience the absolute best that they could. I remember my mentor Melissa waiting at the gate with a sign and as soon as I approached her she treated me like a long lost friend. Once the group had assembled we were shown to the coach bus which would take us to our hotel that we would be staying in for the following week. I sat in the window seat so that I could soak in all the views of my new temporary home. When we arrived at the hotel our TEAN guides did not waste any moments. We were welcomed with a massive buffet of fresh food that was located on the open deck floor of the building where we were able to catch a glimpse of our first Australian sunset. During my time in Cairns I did so much. Through TEAN we were given the opportunity to expand our culinary palettes and try traditional Australian foods like vegemite, kangaroo burgers and alligator ribs. Within the first few days that we spent with our TEAN mentors were given the chance to interact with the Australian wildlife at the zoo, snorkel around the barrier reef, and have a quiet beach day to soak in all the natural beauty around us. When that first adjustment week was up, we all boarded a plane again and headed to our final destinations. In my case, it was Perth, Australia or more specifically the University of Murdoch in Perth, Australia. I lived in the university housing during my time at Murdoch. Our dorm was a spacious 5 bed 2 bath apartment with a kitchen, living room and balcony. I was originally supposed to have 4 other roommates, but due to the Covid19 Pandemic travel bans I only ever met three of them. One girl was an Australian native and the other two girls were study abroad students from Dubai and India. After unpacking I decided to take a walk around the gigantic campus, which is how I met my group of friends. I met one girl from Germany, one girl from Amsterdam and one boy from India. Instantly we all became great friends. The girl from Amsterdam, Kim, did not live on campus. Instead she was residing with a host family. Kim and I became inseparable over the first week and her host family took me under their wing as well. We would have family movie nights with Australian snacks that we had never tried before, picnic dinners on the beach to watch the famous Perth sunsets over the water, and sometimes they would take us to the weekend food truck markets in Fremantle to try more special Australian delicacies. I enrolled in a variety of classes at Murdoch. I took an Australian criminal justice course, an ecotourism course, a psychology course, and a film history course. The ecotourism course was by far my favorite because we were never in the classroom. Instead we were constantly going on field trips to different places to experience ecotourism. The most memorable trip we went on was when we took a trip to Penguin Island. Penguin Island was a small island off the mainland where penguins were taken to help become rehabilitated. We saw tons of penguins around the island, sea lions perched up on the sand banks along the coast, and dolphins swimming alongside our ferry. In between classes students would try to be outside as much as possible. Many would sunbathe in the courtyard, play volleyball or go surfing if they had worn their bathing suits to class. Kim and I often would sit in the big red and black bean bags in the courtyard and do our readings for class together. When we had longer breaks we would grab food from the market and have a picnic on the beach that was only one bus ride away from campus. As more talk of the Covid 19 pandemic whirled around campus, our TEAN mentors checked in on us more and more. A lot of the study abroad students were choosing to go back home to their countries. I was scared of the unknown, but I wanted to experience as much as I could before it was too late. I enrolled in surfing lessons, I planned a day trip to Rottnest Island, and I planned a camping trip to go sandboarding in the outback. Unfortunately the COVID-19 restrictions started to have an effect on Australia faster than I thought. I was able to surf one time and go on my trip to see the Quokkas that lived on Rottnest island. However my trip to the outback never happened. Australia soon imposed domestic travel restrictions between the different states. When talk spread of travel restrictions between countries along with news of what was happening in other countries, there was a lot of worry for the safety of the study abroad students and the issues concerning our travel visas. It was at that time when many study abroad organizations started to pull their programs from the school and send their students home. TEAN held out on pulling their students for as long as they could, which I am truly grateful for, but eventually they had to do what was in the best interest and safety of us students. TEANs emergency evacuation system was seamless. They were in touch with each of us and helped us arrange emergency flights back home, they helped us with any transportation needs, and program/housing refunds to ensure we had the financial resources to get back home. Altogether I was in Australia for about one month before I had to move back to the pandemic dystopian that was my home. I was able to finish all my courses online and stayed in touch with all of my new friends. Even though my time with TEAN was cut short, I am forever grateful to them for the opportunities they had presented me with. Through them I was given opportunities and experiences that I would have never had otherwise. TEAN truly cares about the learning experiences of their students and always puts their students' safety and needs above everything else. And again to them I am ever so grateful.

My friends and I at Rottnest Island meeting a quokka for the first timeSurfing lessonsTrip to the zoo

Life changing

December 15, 2023by: Cailyn Stackhouse - United States

Program: Study Abroad in London, England with WorldStrides

4

This past summer I was given the opportunity to study abroad at Queen Mary’s University of London with ISA Worldstrides. This has been an opportunity that has truly changed my life and my perspective of the world. This was my first time ever traveling out the country so I had to go through the process of getting my passport, researching countries, and booking my plane ticket. When I first got to London my coordinator took me to see the Big Ben, London Eye, Thames river, and more of the big tourist attractions which were great to do on the first day and really provided me with a great start to my trip! My summer school program made it very easy to connect with other students studying abroad, I was able to meter and create friends with people from other countries such as Germany, Nigeria, and Italy. It was really cool to talk about the differences in our countries and share our own experience. I even got the opportunity to make some life long friendships with people from the United States and we’re even planning to have a study abroad group meet up one day! A great thing that I enjoyed about being in London was that I was able to travel to different places and it is very easy to get to other countries as well. One weekend I decided to spend 24 hours in Paris and it was amazing. I visited the Eiffel Tower of course and got to see its beautiful glow at night. It was in that moment where everything just felt surreal because I’ve always dreamed of traveling and am very thankful for this chance to do so. I also visited the Louvre and saw the famous Mona Lisa right along with many other great works of art! I finished the day strolling around the city sightseeing and just allowed myself to be present in the moment. I then made my way back to London that evening and the travel process was very smooth and efficient. At Queen Mary’s University I took the Managing Diversity in Business course as I am a marketing major and learning about diversity is essential in that field. My instructor was amazing and made the content very interesting. My class was combined with students from China, Hong Kong, Germany, and more and it was so great to be able to discuss how diversity is seen in our countries and how it is valued and shown. It was a great opportunity to learn more about different cultures and the way people go about their everyday lives in the business field and some of the comparisons were very shocking and made me very aware of how the world is. My class also got to take a field trip to London History Museum which was very informational and also enjoyable. I learned about about the work force and how things have progressed in London to how they are now. Overall this experience has taught me that I am unaware of how things are in different countries and I have learned to be a more open learner to different cultures and would love to travel around the world and keep learning and experiencing new things. This was a great experience that has truly changed my life and I highly recommend students to study abroad even if its just for a short period of time!

First day in London

Life Changing Experience

December 15, 2023by: Joseph Bleier - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Bilbao, Spain with WorldStrides

4

It is hard to believe that my study abroad program in Bilbao was coming to an end almost a year ago this day. It is weird to think that an experince I reflect on so much ws that long ago. I know it is corny to say but studying abroad was the best time of my life. There were many highlights of the trip and almost impossible to mention them all but I will name a few favorite moments. First off, living with a host family was such a cool experine as it was a great way to be immeresed in the culture and practice my spnish. I feel I got extmemly luck with my family as we connected immidieatly and they did so much for me to try to give me an accurate representation of spanish/basque culture. The many events ISA through made it easy to make friends and I never ran out of things to do. I felt I could have easily spent a year in Bilbao still without completly getting to know the city. With that being said, I felt Bilbai was the perfect size as everything was within walking/commuting distanc. I miss my ride to school in the metro, starting with a beautiful walk through the city. I miss the nightlife and packed streeets of Casco Viejo on the weekends. I even miss the rain a little bit too(even though everyone told us we got lucky as its usually much worse). The only part of the experince that I would have wanted a littl different was the lack of oppurtunities to meet local friends. My host family was a great local connection, but the kids whom i stayed with were younger and it would have been fun to have some people my own age to share the experience with.

Joseph Bleier video

Great way to be immersed in a new culture!

December 15, 2023by: Meredith Brookens - United States

Program: Intern Abroad in Dublin, Ireland with WorldStrides

4

I loved my time interning abroad in Ireland! Getting to work with an organization in Dublin helped me experience the culture in a unique and profound way, outside of typical tourist activities. While interning at a creative writing organization I was able to learn about the Irish school system and workplace. I also appreciated living with other American students in my program who I could travel and navigate life in a new country with!

Program excursion to the Wicklow Gap and Glendalough!

The Opportunities of a Lifetime

December 15, 2023by: Lexi Witherspoon - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

4

Studying abroad with TEAN made me feel absolutely prepared and excited for the new things I was about to experience! I loved how they had little games to immerse ourselves in the Australian culture during orientation and the prizes were absolutely wonderful (I won one, it was a free snorkeling tour of the Great Barrier Reef! How cool is that??). Once we got to our host cities, I never felt like we were truly alone. Someone from TEAN was always hosting a get together or had a fun activity planned, and their monthly newsletters of activities was always helpful. Cole was also always there to give advice. Going to school there was definitely new and completely different than in the US, but it was very easy to get used to and I actually prefer their method of teaching now! And of course, the TEAN group was always there for each other, and while we made our own friends in Australia, I knew we always had each other to relate to. It was very calming to know that everyone was feeling the same way. TEAN was able to give me experiences that I would not have been able to experience if I hadn't gone with them, and I am forever grateful for the people involved with the program and the company itself!

Lady sitting in a ledge along the Sydney Opera House

Best time of my life so far!

December 15, 2023by: Kennedy McKenzie - United States

Program: Study Abroad at Korea University with WorldStrides

4

I’ve been out of the country on cruises that sailed from the US, but studying abroad in Korea through TEAN was the first time I traveled somewhere where I needed a passport to get in the country. In the span of 2-3 months I decided to take the step to study abroad in Korea and it was the best time of my life this far. Even now, a year since my program ended, I still think about all the amazing people I met, the wonderful places I got to explore, the unmatched experiences I had, and the delicious food I ate (for cheap too)! Since completing the program, I've graduated from university, got a job, been studying Korean here and there, and mainly have been trying to plan a trip back to Korea so I can experience it from a different perspective than the student one I had the first time I went. Studying in Korea through TEAN was the best decision and experience I’ve ever had!

Life-changing experience

December 15, 2023by: D'yon McCray - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Malaga, Spain with WorldStrides

5

This was my second time studying abroad in Spain and I am so happy I went with ISA Malaga as my company of choice! I felt supported from the time I applied to the time I returned home. The classes, coursework, and activities really challenged me to improve my language skills.

Fun and Engaging

December 14, 2023by: Ang An - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Busan, South Korea with WorldStrides

4

The staff at TEAN and on-site were very helpful and supportive throughout the process; they always went out of their way to assist students. The program was also super fun as well, albeit a little short.

I had the experience of a lifetime!

December 14, 2023by: Olivia Hickman - United Arab Emirates

Program: Study Abroad in Cusco, Peru with WorldStrides

5

Imagine this-you are from a tiny town of just 2,000 people and you travel to South America and live with another family for 4 months. Yup, that's me and I had the experience of a lifetime. From stopping to get a fresh avocado sandwich on my walk to school, to riding a bus with live chickens (I guess, how else to do you get them from A to B), to visiting Machu Picchu not once but twice, I cannot recommend this program enough. Our on-the-ground Program Director Andy was the absolute BEST person for the job. He's like a fun older brother or uncle who is always looking out for you, has the best recommendations, and wants you to have an incredible experience with ISA and in Peru. Where else can you explore three different regions (coast, highlands, and jungle) in one program. If you are considering ISA and Peru I say go for it. I look back at my time in Peru and am so glad that I took that leap from a tiny town to an ancient city. And I cannot wait for my next trip back. Go and don't look back!

Machu Pichhu in the morning-photo credits: O. Hickman

Seoul this is my new life!

December 13, 2023by: Grace Nadler - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Seoul, South Korea with WorldStrides

4

There is something about South Korea that makes me want to stay forever. I originally came into this semester nervous about what all school and life abroad would demand of me, but I very quickly learned just how much I could and would fit in. I always get asked the question, "why are you an English Literature major studying abroad in South Korea", and to be honest I still ask myself the same question. However, the answer is a loaded one. I chose Korea for many reasons, but no matter what they are, I know I made the right choice. The courses at Hanyang were everything I dreamed of and more. My professors have made me fall in love with literature more and more each lecture and each discussion. I have made local friends that have been generous to teach and welcome me. I have made international friends, like my roommate, that I got to experience all the same firsts with with the same joy and excitement as my own. This whole being abroad thing itself has been a dream opportunity that I know not everyone receives. To say I am truly grateful, I feel is still not enough. Seoul is a city I put on bucket list just a few years ago as I grew more fond of asian culture, so to now say I have studied in such a live and exiting city, in a such a respected institution, is dream I do not want to wake up from. So I have chosen to do just that, not wake up from this dream quite yet. I plan to study here in Seoul another semester, but will be challenging myself in new ways at a new school. I do not know if anything will top my special time here at Hanyang, but my curiosity and love for learning continues to grow no matter where I am so I am excited to stay to see the cherry blossoms bloom in the spring as I also see myself grow in the culture, language, environment, and education I am surrounded by. The only thing I hope to do differently next semester is make the time to explore not just Seoul, but other towns and cities of Korea, city life is fast and exciting and being a student can feel like a full time job, so I think it will be good to get away and slow down to appreciate what else Korea offers.

Lady standing in front of the Gyeongbokgung Palace

An opportunity I will forever be grateful to have had!

December 13, 2023by: Kathryn Carroll - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

4

My experience studying abroad in Thailand was one of the craziest adventures in my life. I had some of the highest highs being able to travel all over Southeast Asia, meeting amazing people, and learning more about the world. I also had some of the hardest moments missing home, adjusting to a completely different culture, and figuring out a new school environment, however even these experiences taught me so much, and every moment made me realize how much I was capable of. My favorite aspect of this trip was being able to see so much of the world, and the moments I had where I knew I would never forget them. I also loved how much guidance we had and trips that were all planned, and a big part of what made this trip possible for me was how affordable thailand is!

The elephant sanctuary in chiang mai was one of my favorite moments in Thailand!The most beautiful sights in Krabi.

Great first experience abroad!

December 13, 2023by: Lena Rosario - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

4

All the planned excursions were a good balance of organized but allowed for us to explore on our own. I only spent four weeks in Spain so it was a little overwhelming thinking about all the things I wanted to do in so little time. All the planned activities in Sevilla and in surrounding cities were perfect to help ease that travel stress. I stayed in the residencia which was a good way to make friends, it was in a great location and I always felt very safe. I would say if a student was looking for more cultural immersion stay with a host family but that can also be stressful and the residencia made it easier to live in Spain. The teachers want you to succeed in class and they know you want to enjoy Spain and not be overwhelmed with work. One tough thing was that we didn’t know what time the classes we selected were going to be offered at so some people had class really late in the day and had to miss some activities because of it. I would have liked more information about the program before arriving in Spain. Everything worked out but I felt a little in the dark leading up to my program. Since we had class Monday through Friday it was not ideal for traveling farther distances or to other countries in Europe. I would say the structure of the summer class would be better for people looking to explore Sevilla and other parts of southern Spain. Overall this program offered a good balance between independence and guidance for my first experience living abroad.

Sevilla won a football game the night before and this is the celebration after in the streets.

Loved the experience.

December 13, 2023by: scott bitautas - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Florence, Italy with WorldStrides

4

My time studying abroad in Italy was unforgettable. FUA was an excellent school with great people. I felt like I was encouraged to be curious, explore and immerse myself into other cultures. I will never forget the memories I made in Florence - the food, the city, my teachers and more!

Great time learning marine science and scuba diving out on the reef

December 13, 2023by: Ally Barry - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Townsville, Australia with WorldStrides

4

As someone with a passion for marine science, studying abroad at JCU was an absolute dream. This program is a wonderful fit for students who want to experience biodiversity with people who share the same motivation in one of the greatest places to do so. Before I went abroad, I set a goal to learn the most outside of the classroom, meet new people and enjoy nature while I had such unique access to it. I would say that I accomplished my goals, but the people I met are really what made the difference. I made friends with folks from all over the world, but particularly those in the TEAN Program. Along with our Australian friends, we became a tight-knit group that still talks regularly. We ate dinner together every night, baked banana bread in the residence hall's kitchen, and traveled across Queensland getting to share our love of the ocean with each other. I understand that these experiences don't always turn out as well as they did for my group, but it was hard to come by an exchange student at JCU who didn't enjoy their overall experience. As for academic experiences, I was coming from the Midwest and was pretty intimidated by the high ranking of JCU and my small background in marine coursework. However, that didn't end up being a problem. The people there are quite nice, and you'll meet folks with diverse interest areas that are happy to teach you about it. I got by pretty easily and with solid grades using my previous knowledge of the base sciences. In terms of enrollment, courses were a bit confusing to set up (overlapping course schedules is something JCU allowed, but that was unclear until I arrived). However, I did have a great semester with plenty of field exposure and caring professors, like Mark Hamann. I would definitely recommend trying to maximize the courses with field components and getting out to Orpheus. In terms of safety, Townsville does not have the most stellar reputation though I always felt safer than I did in the States. Ideally, you make friends with someone who has a car to avoid the extra time and walking distance riding the bus in Townsville requires. However, if you want to go on trips within Queensland, a car is a must. Lastly, if you are a diver, take this opportunity to expand your experiences and certifications. The JCU dive club offers more affordable trips and courses - like the Rescue Diver certification course I took. If you're looking for recreational dives, there are plenty of opportunities to get out on the reef, you just have to find a group to go. I'd definitely recommend diving Yongala, though it is on the pricier side. For cheaper diving or just snorkelling, my friends and I went out to Magnetic Island and had loads of fun. Personally, I took a trip to Bali where I got to do more diving, but trust that there is plenty to do in Queensland. Whether it be completing more dive certifications, doing chemistry out on Orpheus Island Research Station or camping in the Daintree Rainforest with friends, I am immensely grateful for my time in Australia. I hope this provides some insight into what the JCU Program can be and that you find the right program for you!

So much fun!

December 13, 2023by: Ali Kaiser - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Madrid, Spain with WorldStrides

4

This program was great! I felt very supported and loved having a community of other study abroaders in the country nearby as well! The trips ISA planned were so much fun! The staff was very nice and happy to answer even the silliest of questions.

Amazing semester!

December 13, 2023by: Ashlyn Dewitt - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Dunedin, New Zealand with WorldStrides

4

My semester abroad with TEAN was life changing. Upon arriving, I was welcomed by TEAN staff and spent a week with other students at orientation in Queenstown, helping me to make friends and adjust to life abroad. TEAN supported me before, during, and on my way home, which made the whole process super easy and a lot less scary. A semester abroad was way out of my comfort zone, but New Zealand quickly became my second home with stunning landscapes, happy people, and a unique culture!

Amazing hike up Roy's PeakMy first rugby game

Life Changing Experience.

December 13, 2023by: Thang Sian - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

4

Studying abroad in Thailand has completely changed my life. It made me want to explore the world more, and got me out of my comfort zone. I've always had a fear of traveling alone, and always thinking of what could go wrong. But this experience made me realized that those fears are all in my head. When traveling, not everything will go according to your itinerary. But those are what makes exploring fun, because you just have to accept the flaws and go with the flow. That's what adventures are all about, to be flexible. Studying abroad also made me more confident in myself and I was able to put myself out there more. I got the chance to make international friends from all around the world. It's an absolutely amazing experience.

An Unforgettable Experience Of A Lifetime

December 13, 2023by: haley hirshland - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

4

When I say this was the best 5 months of my life... I mean it. I actually loved my study abroad experience in the Gold Coast so much that I am planning on moving back once I graduate! Not a day goes by I don't think about that place and all of the amazing memories it holds for me. From the beaches, the healthy and active lifestyle, the nicest people, the weather, to the endless opportunities for travel... I could not say enough good things about my experience abroad. I lived in a luxurious hotel one block from the beach with a bunch of new friends, I mean it really doesn't get better. A day in the life looked like waking up early to catch the sunrise on a beach walk (grab a coffee on the way), heading to pilates at a studio right under my living accommodation, maybe grabbing an acai bowl next door on my way home, getting ready for school in my amazing hotel room, catching the tram to Griffith University, attending a class or two with some fellow abroad friends and of course with the local Aussies I've grown to love and call my friends, heading home on the tram and meeting some friends at the market for dinner, maybe frozen-yogurt on the way home, hot-tub sesh with friends back at the hotel and calling it a night. I could go on and on about the things this experience taught me, how much I grew from it, and the lifelong friends it brought me, but I don't want to spoil it all... you'll have to go find out for yourself! But seriously, I promise you won't be able to stop talking about it once you come home from this abroad experience, it has genuinely become a personality trait of mine now...

My Summer in Seoul!

December 13, 2023by: Ana Snowde - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Seoul, South Korea with WorldStrides

4

I had a really great time during my study abroad experience in Seoul, South Korea! I was able to experience academics at one of the best universities in the country and meet a lot of new people from all over the world. I also loved trying the food and the night life that Korea had to offer.

At a traditional Korean Temple.

I met some lifelong friends.

December 13, 2023by: Michelle Elizarraras - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Busan, South Korea with WorldStrides

4

This program not only opened myself up to become more social but it also allowed me to meet some great friends along the way from different countries not just Korea. It was an amazing experience and friendship. I am already invited to a friends wedding!

I had the time of my life!

December 13, 2023by: Lucas Lindsley - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Cape Town, South Africa with WorldStrides

4

One of the greatest experiences I have ever had. Nothing like getting to live in a different country for 6 months and really immerse yourself in another country and culture. Being able to become close to others with no previous connection is truly something that you have to do!

Most amazing experience!

December 13, 2023by: Edith Enriquez - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Barcelona, Spain with WorldStrides

4

ISA did an amazing job of letting all their students know that there was support in every aspect of our study abroad experience. Whether it was getting all the students in the program together to mingle, or providing resources to explore on our own. I loved the staff and was amazed by how well they created relationships with everyone participating in the program. Would 10/10 recommend to any student looking to explore outside of their comfort zone!

10/10 I loved it!

December 13, 2023by: Morgan Sellden - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Prague, Czech Republic with WorldStrides

4

The city of Prague and my study abroad experience changed my life! I gained a newfound self-confidence and was able to understand my emotions and future goals in a way I never had before. The accommodations were amazing, and the apartment I stayed in was nicer than any place I could rent in the States. I will be going back and I so very thankful for this experience!

Enriching Adventures: A 6-Week Journey with TEAN and Korea University

December 13, 2023by: Leslie Alejandro - United States

Program: Study Abroad at Korea University with WorldStrides

4

Studying abroad with TEAN at Korea University was an enriching experience. The six-week program seamlessly blended cultural immersion, education, and robust support. The vibrant cultural exposure allowed me to delve deep into Korean traditions, cuisine, and daily life, fostering a profound understanding of the local lifestyle. Korea University's academic environment was outstanding, with engaging courses that provided a unique perspective on my field of study. The professors were knowledgeable and approachable, enhancing the overall learning experience. TEAN's support was a cornerstone of the program's success. From pre-departure guidance to on-site assistance, their team ensured a smooth transition and addressed any concerns promptly. The organized excursions and cultural activities further enriched my time, making the weeks fly by with cherished memories. Overall, TEAN and Korea University created a holistic study abroad experience that not only broadened my academic horizons but also immersed me in the rich tapestry of Korean culture.

An absolutely incredible experience!

December 13, 2023by: Kate Super - United States

Program: Study Abroad at University of Sydney with WorldStrides

4

I had so much fun! It was amazing experiencing life in a different culture and getting to see so many places I never thought I’d get to. USyd has a beautiful campus and the support I received from both the university and TEAN made being so far from home much less daunting. I made so many invaluable memories. I completely recommend going!

Eye opening experience!

December 13, 2023by: Michelle Park - United States

Program: Study Abroad at University of Sydney with WorldStrides

4

With my time studying abroad at the University of Sydney I had an amazing experience of meeting new people from all around the world and realizing that the world is so much bigger than we all think! Having this abroad experience has taught me to learn so much about myself in different aspects that improved myself as person!

Golden Days on the Gold Coast

December 13, 2023by: Alex Dashner - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

4

My semester abroad in Australia was one of the best things I’ve ever done in my life. I had the privilege of meeting people from all over the world, and being immersed in Australian culture as well as others that had moved there as well. I would do it all over again and would recommend this to anyone who wanted to do it

Burleigh National Park!

My experience in Madrid

December 13, 2023by: Jazmin Torres - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Madrid, Spain with WorldStrides

4

Studying in Madrid was the best experience in my life. I was able to learn more about their language and culture. The classes offered were great and the teachers were as well. I was able to visit Valencia and Toledo, and those places are awesome, too.

Lady sitting in a fountain with a statue in Madrid

Great experience

December 13, 2023by: Spencer Gee - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

4

I had a truly memorable experience during my time in Spain. Made lots of new friends, visited new and exciting places, and got out of my comfort zone. I’ll certainly look back on my time abroad fondly for the rest of my life!

CHANGED MY LIFE!

December 13, 2023by: Lucia Castellini - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Barcelona, Spain with WorldStrides

4

Living in Barcelona was the coolest experience I’ve ever had… I would highly recommend it!! ISA was a great program to do it through, they made it simple and I felt safe and cared for while I was abroad.

Best 6 weeks of my life!

December 13, 2023by: Riley Clayton - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Barcelona, Spain with WorldStrides

4

I was a part of the Summer 2022 ISA study abroad program in Barcelona. I had dreamt about going abroad since I was little, and I was able to make it happen the summer before my senior year of college. I knew it was going to be amazing but I didn’t realize how much I was going to love it. I was assigned an apartment with a group of six girls who two this day I still talk to and visit. I was able to travel not only Spain but also other countries on the weekends. New foods, new experiences, new people in so much more are the reason that my city abroad experience was easily, the best two months of my life. for anyone on the edge about setting a broad or not, I would’ve 100% recommend, and urge you to say yes!

Girls trip to Cinque Terre in Italy!

Life-changing experience

December 13, 2023by: Hanna Schuricht - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Meknes, Morocco with WorldStrides

4

This program was incredible. The teachers were fantastic as was my host family and all of my fellow travelers. It felt like we explored every corner of Morocco, the cities, the forests, the beaches, the desert. It was so beautiful there, and the program director in Meknes was so kind and helpful. My only warning for those hoping for Arabic language immersion is that most of the people in Meknes don’t actually speak Arabic, they speak French and a local dialect.

Riding camels on our way to the desert camp

Grá Mór

December 13, 2023by: Drew Heineman - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Limerick, Ireland

4

My experience in Ireland was more than just a fun trip. It was a formative experience in learning about myself and pushing out of my comfort zone. I felt incredibly supported and safe the entirety of my trip by staff and peers. The town and campus were beautiful and well kept. I never once felt unsafe. I learned so much about different people and cultures and met people I will have a connection to for the rest of my life.

AcroYoga Community in GalwayBeautiful place, Beautiful people
Drew Heineman video

Amazing summer!

December 13, 2023by: Ella Holland - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

4

I had an excellent time during this program. It was a difficult time to travel due to COVID and we were one of the first programs to operate after the pandemic. ISA was very helpful in ensuring we all had the paperwork, medical testing, and everything else we needed to make it to Spain and return home safely and smoothly. We were introduced to Sevilla in a very engaging way and I really learned to love the city and feel at home. The dorms were amazing (including AC, updated bathrooms, big windows with great views), in a great location, and comfortable. I would recommend this trip to anyone!

El Guadalquivir

Life changing experience!!!

December 13, 2023by: Hannah Philips

Program: Study Abroad in Paris, France with WorldStrides

5

I spent the Spring semester of 2023 studying abroad in Paris, France. In 4 months I grew up so much and made life long memories. First of all, the other students who choose to study abroad come from such different backgrounds, have unique experiences, and getting to know them is so amazing. My host family that ISA got for me was exactly the experience I wanted. My host parents were both retired teachers and loved to help me get better at French, made unique French meals for dinner, and really treated me like family. One of the highlights of my trip was watching ‘Noubliez pas les paroles!’ with my host mom before dinner every night. It was her favorite TV show where they sang old French songs and she would sing along:) I got to travel around France, I got so much better at speaking French, and I already am planning on going back to France next year. 11/10 experience, just bite the bullet and commit to it, you will not regret it!!

I had an amazing time!

December 13, 2023by: Mitsuca Castelly - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Seoul, South Korea with WorldStrides

5

Hanyang University was very welcoming, and I enjoyed every part of the experience studying in Seoul during summer 2023! The activities prepared for us was enriching, fun, and complemented the experience. It was my very first time traveling to another country alone and I was well prepared for that experience. I did not have to worry about food, transportation, or housing. Everything was accessible. The professors were understanding and educated us on how to immerse into the culture and get most out of this trip. The student staff team showed us around and made us feel what it's like to live in this admirable and cherished city which is Seoul. This allowed me to see the world in a different perspective and feel more independent. I can surely say that I know how to prepare for my next solo trip! South Korea is definitely in my list of places to visit again and hopefully reunite with the friends I made during my study abroad experience!

Great time learning with Ticos

December 13, 2023by: Jay Arangan - United States

Program: Study Abroad in San Jose, Costa Rica with WorldStrides

5

"Por favor, no comas de la despensa" was my first introduction to my host family, a phrase that emphasized the importance of respecting house rules ("no eating direct from the pantry") and cultural nuances. I quickly understood the context and rules of my host mom's family. It was a non-stop learning experience for the next several weeks. My experiences in Costa Rica further enriched my understanding and respect for living among Ticos. I navigated daily life, sharing meals and participating in daily chores, all the while striving to learn the local language and culture. The "pura vida" spirit was contagious, and I was welcomed into their world with open arms. My host mom, in particular, taught me the value of patience, respect and cultural exchange, one day at a time. These experiences informed me how to be sensitive to cultural norms and show respect while having fun learning a foreign culture. It was transformative learning at Veritas University and I truly learned how to navigate in a foreign land and culture. It is a trip I can never forget and will someday return for new extended learning. Thank you ISA and the most helpful counselors.

Veritas UniversitySan Jose Park near my home

An Amazing Opportunity

December 13, 2023by: Bella Kaczmarek - United States

Program: Study Abroad at Korea University with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad in Seoul, South Korea, was such an amazing opportunity for me. It was so meaningful to be fully immersed in a different culture and live my new everyday life there. In Seoul there were so many fun and exciting things to do. I felt that I could never get board being there. With the support from TEAN I felt prepared and confident during my time abroad. If I could I would go back in a heartbeat! Studying abroad in South Korea has made a realize my true passion for international work and travel.

Hanbok at Gyeongbokgung Palace
Bella Kaczmarek video

Unforgettable Semester in a Land Down Under

December 13, 2023by: Tang Favish - United States

Program: Study Abroad at University of Sydney with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad at the University of Sydney through the TEAN program during the Spring 2023 semester was an unforgettable journey that exceeded all expectations. The academic facilities at the University of Sydney were top-notch, creating a fantastic study and learning environment that complemented the exceptional professors in my computer science program. Beyond academics, the program thoughtfully gave us the opportunity to attend surf lessons at Bondi Beach, offering newcomers like me an exhilarating introduction to the Aussie beach culture. TEAN curated a diverse range of activities, including the Sydney Opera House tour and the day trip to the Blue Mountains, which provided insights into the city's rich history and local natural beauty. Cultural Impact: One of the most remarkable aspects of my time abroad was the profound cultural impact it had on me. The TEAN program kicked off remarkably well by providing us with an incredible multi-day stay in Cairns, complete with a stay at one of the nicest hotels I had ever been to. We met other Americans in the program, learned more about the culture in presentations, and embarked on amazing excursions. This introduction to Australian culture was nothing short of exhilarating. The highlight of our time in Cairns was a fully organized visit to the Great Barrier Reef, an experience that left me in awe of the beauty of our oceans. Snorkeling amidst the vibrant marine life and stunning coral formations was a surreal experience, and for those who could or wanted to, scuba diving was also an option. We also had the chance to connect with the local wildlife by visiting a wildlife park where we encountered kangaroos, cuddled with koalas, and came face to face with crocodiles in another park. These encounters with Australia's unique fauna were amazing. The TEAN orientation in Cairns allowed me to immerse myself in Australian culture, interact with locals, and become better acquainted with my future housemates for Sydney. TEAN Staff and Support: The TEAN staff played an invaluable role in making this experience exceptional. From the moment we arrived in Cairns, they were there to ensure our comfort and ease of transition. Their warm welcome and organization of various events to help us get to know each other made forming connections with fellow students effortless. The support extended beyond the initial orientation and continued throughout the semester, addressing any questions or concerns we had. Housing and Arrival: TEAN took care of our housing arrangements, alleviating any concerns about accommodation. Upon our arrival in Sydney, our liaison was waiting at the airport to pick us up. Our housing was strategically located in the heart of Ultimo, just a short walk away from campus, with easy access to nearby groceries, coffee shops, and other conveniences. This setup further enhanced our overall experience, allowing us to study in a vibrant area and fully immerse ourselves in a walkable environment. I must admit that, at first, I was a bit hesitant and even a bit scared about making friends in a completely new environment. However, those initial worries quickly faded as we all meshed incredibly well. From participating in trivia nights at a nearby venue to celebrating milestones like my 21st birthday together, the camaraderie and warmth that developed within my group of housemates and with local Australians made my experience fulfilling and unforgettable. It's a testament to the power of stepping out of one's comfort zone and embracing the unknown during a semester abroad. University of Sydney: The University of Sydney itself is a remarkable institution. Not only were the professors exceptional, but the overall academic environment was stimulating and enriching. The vibrant campus and the cultural diversity of its student body added to the unique experience of studying in Sydney. In conclusion, my semester abroad at the University of Sydney with the TEAN program was an extraordinary adventure filled with academic growth, cultural enrichment, and lifelong memories. The combination of outstanding academics, incredible cultural experiences, and unwavering support from the TEAN staff made this journey an absolute highlight of my life. I would highly recommend this program to anyone seeking an unforgettable study abroad experience. It's not just a semester; it's a life-enriching adventure in another country, made even better by the experience provided by TEAN. Note: "Down Under" by Men At Work will become your anthem by the end of the term :)

Lady overlooking a zipline between a forest canyonWallaby in Cairns' wildlife parkSnorkeling at the Great Barrier Reef!
Tang Favish video

Best summer ever

December 13, 2023by: Kelley Beyer - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

5

I went to Seville, Spain during the summer to finish up my business degree. It was the best decision ever! I made so many friends and had unforgettable memories. Seville is one of the most beautiful cities in Spain! It’s a perfect place to immerse yourself into Spanish culture and language. My professor was so cool & I actually had fun in the class (shoutout Jesús). I miss my time in Seville every single day!!!

Took a day trip to Ibiza with my friends! It was so fun!!

Best pre-health experience possible!

December 13, 2023by: Madison Costes - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Lima, Peru with WorldStrides

5

I did a summer term in Lima doing community health, and I cannot recommend it enough. The Lima staff is top tier out of all of my experiences. The city has great variety and lots of options for immersion. The program I did was amazing!! We worked firsthand in a clinic with patients, doctors, community leaders, and professors and got amazing insight into health in Peru and overall. The excursions were perfectly tailored as well. Again going to reiterate how exceptional the Lima staff was. Felt extremely supported and listened to. They care a lot about making this program so great!!

Best Summer Ever!

December 13, 2023by: Aaina Kapur - United States

Program: Intern Abroad in New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

I really loved my intern abroad experience and the connections I made in my time there. It was definitely an experience that pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me become more independent. I loved the organized activities as well as the orientation trip and believe that I was able to learn so much about the culture and history of New Zealand. It was truly an unforgettable experience and I hope to make many more trips to New Zealand in the future.

Best ever!

December 13, 2023by: Golda Harris - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Florence, Italy with WorldStrides

5

I loved my time abroad. Florence was the most amazing city to become immersed in European culture. My professors were awesome and were very good about helping us navigate life in Florence - the dos and don'ts. Overall, it was so much fun and very exciting!

Barcelona

December 13, 2023by: Lauren Mackenzie Morgan - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Barcelona, Spain with WorldStrides

5

My six-week study abroad Journey in Barcelona, Spain with ISA was nothing short of extraordinary. At the beginning, I was intimidated and uncertain about what lay ahead. However, the experience turned out to be an an adventure that far surpassed my expectations. One of the standout elements of my time abroad was the support provided by the ISA staff. Whether it was navigating student living arrangements, seeking fitness recommendations or discovering the best local eateries, the ISA team was always approachable and willing to help, which enhanced the overall experience. Academically, I gained invaluable knowledge from my classes and loved my professors, but exploring the beautiful city of Barcelona was what truly enriched my learning. The local excursions planned by ISA enhanced my appreciation for Barcelona history and Spanish culture. Navigating the streets independently allowed me to absorb cultural nuances and gain a confidence in myself that I had not anticipated. Beyond the academic realm, the connections I made during my time with ISA have lasted to this day. I met some of the most amazing people during my program, and to this day, I cherish those friendships. My time in Barcelona was so amazing that I embarked on a second study abroad venture in London. This transformative journey boosted my confidence in immersing myself in new cultures, a skill that has proven invaluable in various aspects of my life. I am extremely grateful for the profound impact that ISA and the Barcelona program have had on my life. This experience has made me more open-minded and adaptable, qualities that continue to shape my personal and professional journey. I am filled with gratitude for the lasting memories, enduring friendships and the newfound passion for travel that will shape my future endeavors, all thanks to ISA.

Lady standing below the Sagrada de Familia, Barcelona.

Learning about Language and Life in Salamanca, Spain

December 13, 2023by: Veronica Shlyapnikova - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Salamanca, Spain with WorldStrides

5

I participated in a 6-month study abroad program in Salamanca, Spain where I took courses with the locals about topics related to my linguistics major. At first, I was terrified of leaving behind my seemingly perfect life in the US. But as soon as I arrived, I knew I had made the right choice. Salamanca was a beautiful, small city that was very different from every other place I have lived. It was easy to get around and I loved the university atmosphere. I stayed with a host family in a lovely apartment and although the language barrier was tricky in the beginning, the host mom quickly became my best friend. She helped me pick my outfits for school, she taught me how to cook some delicious meals, and she made my transition into a new culture fun and simple. Over the course of my stay there, my Spanish language skills improved tremendously. I never thought I would become fluent, but after being surrounded by the language every day I started to think and even dream in Spanish. The coursework was definitely challenging but it was also incredibly interesting and the program staff was always available to help me. I felt like I learned more in my 6 months there than I had in my 5 years of studying Spanish in the US. Not only did I grow academically from this trip but I also grew as a person. Living in a different country and having to adapt to a new culture expanded my mind in ways I wasn't expecting. I met amazing people from all over the world and I gained confidence that allowed me to take on challenges that I would have previously seen as too intimidating. I had so much fun during my study abroad experience and I made so many best friends that I decided to spend the summer in Europe after my program ended. I traveled to almost all of the nearby countries and I began to see the world with a new perspective. If I had the chance, I would do this all over again!

Me and my friends from the program taking a night stroll through Plaza Mayor.

Best Study Abroad Ever!

December 13, 2023by: Malia Warren - United States

Program: Study Abroad in San Jose, Costa Rica with WorldStrides

5

ISA’s program, staff, and activities made my trip amazing. This 4 week program made “school” everyday feel like a blessing! I learned so much and ISA made sure we had plenty of opportunities to explore the country as well. 10/10 experience with cultural experiences and Spanish language emersion. So much fun

Path walk in a garden

Best experience of my life!

December 13, 2023by: Rory McGuinness - United States

Program: Intern Abroad in Australia with WorldStrides

5

I was lucky enough to be placed in Perth, Australia last summer! I worked with a footy team as a sports trainer and got to learn so much! Everyone there was incredible and willing to go out of the way to make the experience even better. I got to learn hands on how to treat and prevent injuries and watch the footy games up close! It is now my new favorite sport! While abroad I was also easily able to travel to other places like Melbourne, Sydney, and even Bali. I was able to get the full Australian experience and play with koalas and kangaroos as well as see the Great Barrier Reef which they are highly known for. The views are breath taking and this was an experience I will never forget thanks to ISA by Worldstrides. Definitely recommend going if the opportunity arises!!

The team that I was lucky enough to work with for 2 months!Some of the kangaroos you get to play with!

Phenomenal Time w/ ISA!

December 12, 2023by: Jean Serrano - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Florence, Italy with WorldStrides

4

I enjoyed my time abroad and couldn’t have asked for a better team to arrange my studies, like ISA. In my semester, I got to study fashion design and sketch in the heart of where the Renaissance burgeoned. I met great people too and had the flexibility to also go to other areas of Italy. Strongly recommend as it will give you a boost in morale and has helped me learn a lot about global marketing and public relations.

An Amazing Experience

December 12, 2023by: Finn Hubbard - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Cape Town, South Africa with WorldStrides

4

I had a great time here. The housing was good, the excursions were fun and educational. The connections they had with local communities were great. I really feel that we were able to do some good. The one issue I had was that I did not like our two program coordinators, they were rude and unfair at times. I did not let them ruin my trip however!

The most unforgettable trip!!

December 12, 2023by: Ally Curry - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Barcelona, Spain with WorldStrides

4

I had the most amazing experience with ISA while in Barcelona! Our weekend trip to Valencia was organized and coordinated so well by the leadership team, and the travel resources offered outside of the program were so helpful for my friends and I. Also, our professor was so knowledgeable and captivating.

My best friend and I in a cafe in downtown Barcelona!

Best Experience Ever!

November 20, 2023by: Sofia Ledferd - United States

Program: Study Abroad at University of Sydney with WorldStrides

5

Choosing to study abroad was the best decision I ever made. I truly believe this is something everyone should do! TEAN made this experience unforgettable for me; we traveled to the Great Barrier Reef, explored our host cities and had an incredible team of people supporting us the whole time. If I ever needed help with anything or wanted a recommendation for a great restaurant, my advisor was super nice and always helpful! You won't regret it!

two people skydiving

Amazing Experience in London, Thank You ISA!!!!

November 16, 2023by: Annalise Kelly - United States

Program: Study Abroad in London, England with WorldStrides

4

I experienced London through the Summer 1 session with ISA, and my experience couldn't have been more positive! This was my first time overseas, so I was a little nervous before departing but once I arrived and met with ISA's staff and the other students in my program, my worries went right away! ISA did a great job introducing us to the city through excursions, and the marketing class I took was academically enriching. By the end of the trip, London felt like a second home. Thank you again, ISA!

Lady beside big phonebooth in front of Big Ben!

Enriching Adventures in Seoul: A Scholar's Journey in South Korea

October 19, 2023by: Logan Pender - United States

Program: Study Abroad at Korea University with WorldStrides

4

Studying abroad in Seoul as a McNair Scholar and a Benjamin A. Gilman Scholar was an extraordinary journey that not only enriched my academic experience but also allowed me to engage with high-level officials, diplomats, government leaders, and partake in a vital experience as an aspiring higher education administrator with a focus on global learning. South Korea, with its vibrant culture, technological advancement, and diverse landscapes, proved to be an amazing destination for my academic exploration. I am immensely grateful for choosing the program that facilitated my study abroad experience. The support and resources provided by the ISA/TEAN staff were instrumental in making this adventure as smooth and enriching as possible. Their guidance, from pre-departure orientations to on-site assistance, was invaluable, helping to ease the initial overwhelming transition into a new country. The activities, orientations, and social events organized by the staff not only made me feel more at home but also allowed me to connect with other international students, forming lasting friendships. One exceptional aspect of my study abroad experience was attending the CIEE Annual Conference in Seoul. This conference was not only an enlightening experience but also a crucial one for my aspirations as a higher education administrator with a focus on global learning. The conference provided a platform to network with professionals, scholars, and leaders in the field of international education and global learning. The knowledge and insights gained from the conference have been instrumental in shaping my academic and career path. It allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of the global higher education landscape, exchange ideas, and learn from experts in the field. Moreover, my study abroad program included an excursion to Busan, a picturesque coastal city. The private bus and guided tour provided a comprehensive exploration of the city, allowing us to experience its unique culture and stunning locations. Busan's blend of beautiful beaches, fish markets, and historical sites, such as Buddhist temples and colorful villages, made it an unforgettable addition to our study abroad journey. Seoul itself is a marvel, a city where efficiency and aesthetics are seamlessly integrated into daily life. The advanced technology and infrastructure in Seoul are beyond comparison, making everyday experiences more enjoyable. The city's vibrant atmosphere, bustling streets, and diverse activities offer something for everyone. From the captivating nightlife to leisurely cafe hopping, from shopping in the city to sightseeing, Seoul truly has it all. My time in Korea has not only broadened my academic horizons but has also given me a deeper understanding of the culture and way of life in this extraordinary country. Despite the language barrier, I felt safe and independent, a testament to the welcoming nature of the people in Seoul. As a McNair Scholar and a Benjamin A. Gilman Scholar aspiring to be a higher education administrator with a focus on global learning, I couldn't have asked for a more enriching and eye-opening study abroad experience. In conclusion, my study abroad journey in South Korea, particularly in Seoul, Busan, was a remarkable adventure that left a lasting impact on my personal and academic growth. The resources and support provided by the program, the vibrant city of Seoul, the diverse experiences in different regions of South Korea, the engagement with government officials, and the transformative experience of attending the CIEE Annual Conference made this experience truly unforgettable.

person looking down on the snow in front of a building signperson standing behind a podiumoverview of the temple by the sea
Logan Pender video

The best city ever!

October 18, 2023by: Elisha Telesford - United States

Program: Study Abroad in London, England with WorldStrides

4

I loved my study abroad experience. I felt at home in Kingston. Living in Kingston is a unique experience, as it's about 45 minutes outside of central London, so it is a much slower pace of living. One of my main objectives in going abroad was figuring out if I could live comfortably in another country, and after this experience, it is safe to say that I definitely can. It was very intimidating going abroad to a country where I didn't know anyone, but it also caused me to step outside my comfort zone and helped me gain confidence when facing unfamiliar situations. London is such a unique, huge city, and you'll find that each area is completely different. When it comes to going abroad to London, it definitely is costly. I applied for scholarships through ISA/Tean and my home university, which helped fund my experience abroad. To anyone going abroad, I suggest researching the scholarships offered through your home and host university and scholarships offered by private companies. Going abroad is an experience I will never take for granted, and I cannot wait to go abroad again.

Best time of my life

October 11, 2023by: Kareen Darwich - United States

Program: Study Abroad in San Jose, Costa Rica with WorldStrides

5

My experience in Heredia, Costa Rica was life-changing and I would do it all over again if I could. I stayed with a host family which was the best decision. I got to taste home cooked traditional meals rather than eating out all the time. There is something special about a hot home cooked meal and Spanish conversations with host families that makes study abroad unique. I have gained so much confidence in my Spanish speaking skills as well as in myself. Traveling and discovering on your own takes you out of your comfort zone and lets you enjoy more.

Life-Changing Summer in Busan

October 10, 2023by: MJ Bline - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Busan, South Korea with WorldStrides

5

I had an amazing experience studying abroad in Busan, South Korea. I felt that Busan, in comparison to Seoul, allowed me to immerse more into Korean culture and language. As soon as I met everyone in my TEAN program, it felt like we shared a sense of community, and we got along with well with each other really quickly. When you're studying abroad, you're often surrounded by like-minded people, who share a lot of the same basic interests as you! The resident director for TEAN Busan, Yeseul Park, is very kind, inclusive, and excited to help you get the best experience out of your program. I often felt that she went above and beyond to make sure that we were having an enjoyable and safe experience. Getting to talk to her and explore Busan and Seoul with her was a very happy experience. She gave a lot of helpful insights as a native Korean. The program at PNU was exciting and allowed me to get close with students from all over the world. We spent a lot of time together, and quickly started to hangout during our free time. The PNU campus is beautiful and sits in between mountains. There are a ton of fun restaurants, karaokes, stores, and sports venues to visit near/on campus. In terms of the Korean classes, the teachers were ecstatic and helpful. They were so passionate about helping us learn and enjoy ourselves! Looking back, I wish that I had known that when TEAN places you in the PNU summer program, it's not just TEAN students in the program. The trip begins with just TEAN students in Seoul, but when you get to PNU, you're immersed in PNU's program, with other international students. This was an amazing experience and made it better, I just remember that I was surprised when there were other international students in the program. Overall, I would highly recommend this program to anyone who is looking for an immersive and exciting experience in South Korea! My experience truly helped me grow so much as an individual. I will never forget my 2023 summer in Busan.

Selfie at the Gamcheon Cultural village "I Love" Gamcheon SignageThe streets of Busan

Best Experience Of My Life!!!!!

October 09, 2023by: Peyton Ray - United States

Program: Intern Abroad in Seoul, South Korea with WorldStrides

5

Going abroad was a transformative experience for me. Although I have traveled with my family in the past, this was my first solo journey. Despite initial nervousness, I found it easy to make friends among fellow travelers and locals. Along with new friends the abroad experience enriched me academically and personally. I'm glad I took the opportunity to go abroad and highly recommend it to others considering studying abroad.

All the reasons why I would love to go back

October 09, 2023by: Elizabeth Szajda - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Paris, France with WorldStrides

4

Studying abroad in Paris was so intimidating at first. Leaving family, friends, everything you know back home and travelling to a foreign country all by yourself. I was very nervous, but the ISA staff make it much easier to transition and help you with anything you may need. I had an awesome time and was able to travel to over 8 countries in my four months in Paris. The living situation was good, I had an apartment right outside of Paris connected to the Metro 1 Line. I studied at the American Business School in Paris, so all of my classes were in English (except one French language class) which took away from the cultural immersion. We had classes once a week for 3 hours per class which was amazing because I could travel for 5 days at a time! The food was delicious, and the location was perfect. Overall, it was a great experience, and I would love to go back!

Unforgettable experience!

October 06, 2023by: Catelyn Cox - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Paris, France with WorldStrides

4

I had never been overseas before studying abroad, so I was really nervous and overwhelmed at first, but the ISA staff were very helpful in laying out all of the steps I need to take in order to have a successful experience. Once I landed in Paris, people from the ISA Paris team met me at the airport and took me to the office, so I could get settled, then they paid for an Uber to take me to my host's house. I really liked being able to live with a French family who provided meals for me because I felt like I got to see how locals lived and ate. My university was also great. It was in a beautiful building with a cafeteria. I liked most of my professors, even though there was a pretty strong language barrier at first. The best part of the experience was being so centrally located and being able to visit a plethora of museums and monuments, and also being able to travel to other countries on the weekend. I did face some culture shock, which is to be expected, but all in all I LOVED my experience.

Eiffel Tower at night

The Wonders of Chile!

October 05, 2023by: Ashauna Francis - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Chile with WorldStrides

4

I came into study abroad eager and excited, looking to improve my fluency in Spanish. Without realizing though, I also came in treating study abroad as an item on a checklist, but it was so much more! From the warm & welcoming culture of the people, to the rich seafood, that I didn't know you could put in an empanada, to living a 10 minutes' walk from the beach, I fell in love with life there. My host family made me feel so at home and I loved walking and exploring the city every day. The public transportation was easy, though the Micro's were surely an adventurous ride!! Being immersed in this culture swept me off of my feet. Building relationships with the other students studying abroad, the local Chileans, and our residential director was a highlight for sure! While I knew that it was custom to kiss on the cheek when greeting, this still took me by surprise and I had to adjust. I would say that I started to get a bit homesick around week 6 and this probably lasted about a month or so, but our residential director did an amazing job with having these open types of conversations with us, always asking what kind of support we needed and having us reflect. But there was always something to do, whether a festival in Valpo or something hosted by UAI's student exchange team, so getting outside of the house and planning things to look forward to helps with that a TON! Honestly, my heart is still there, and I am seriously considering moving there. I visited the San Pedro de Atacama Dessert and it was stunningly breathtaking!...SO, if you're still debating, let this be your sign to say YES and DO IT!! ;) thank me later, I hope you have an amazing experience!!!

Woman standing beside her hitched horse in a jungleLady Standing in front of the beach sunsetLady in front of a fountain

Incredible opportunity and experience

October 05, 2023by: Ava Birdwell - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

I was able to study abroad through the TEAN program in Australia even when I thought it wouldn't be possible, and I'm beyond grateful for that. It was my dream to study abroad in Australia and the whole experience was insane!! Bond University is an amazing place for meeting many different people. I made best friends for life here. The Gold Coast is a super convenient location to travel around Australia and I was able to visit Byron Bay, Sydney, Tasmania, and more. I loved the classes as well, I wish I could've taken them all. I also appreciate TEAN's flexibility throughout the application process.

HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!!!

October 03, 2023by: Maggie Banhart - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Buenos Aires, Argentina with WorldStrides

5

I was very nervous before going into this process, I'd heard all about the things of culture shock and not having the best host family, but I could not be happier to say that none of this was true when I went to Argentina. I had the best experience getting to Argentina, meeting my host family, and adjusting to the culture. My host family went above and beyond to make sure I knew how to work public transportation and exchange my currency. The university had amazing teachers and I enjoyed both of the classes I took during my time in Buenos Aires. I met so many amazing people there; from my program, other programs, and even locals that I still talk to today. This was probably one of the most memorable experiences I've ever been able to be a part of and I hope that I get the opportunity to go back to Argentina someday. I highly recommend to anyone looking to travel abroad to do it, even if you don't go to Argentina, go abroad somewhere. I promise you you will not regret it and you will make so many memories that you will forever hold on to, I know I will.

Best semester at Korea University in Seoul, South Korea- Spring 2023

September 28, 2023by: Lisaidy Zabala - Dominican Republic

Program: Study Abroad at Korea University with WorldStrides

5

Being a first-generation college student and having immigrant parents, I believed that dreams were nothing more than an exaggerated expectation of what was possible and that we should never hope to realize them. My dream was to travel and my younger self would’ve never imagined that there would be chances for me that may support me in making aspirations come true. And I'm pleased I did because choosing to study in South Korea was the best choice I've ever made. Korea University in Seoul was the best place to continue my studies at, and TEAN was really helpful with paperwork and making sure everything was prepared properly. They also gave me more opportunities to learn more about the country and introduced me to some of the greatest friends I made while traveling. I would suggest this to anyone who has a desire to learn and travel because it was unquestionably the correct program and location for me. This is ideal for you if you enjoy Korean cuisine, the language, or entertainment, or even if you are just seeking for a place that has a lot of differences from your country. And if you are also considering Korea University in Seoul, South Korea, here are some suggestions based on my personal experience • Study the culture- Understanding the differences in culture is important for traveling and simply being respectful to others, so make sure you’re aware of customs and traditions of the country you are visiting. • Korea University is a fantastic school, and as a business major, classes can be competitive (most of the business courses are graded in exams and group projects/presentations). • Bring good walkable shoes, you will need them! • Bring an umbrella or you might end up buying multiple. • Public transportation is amazing and TEAN will guide you through it as well. • Koreans are curious people so if people come up to you or start a conversation, be open minded to them. I was approached multiple times but why were wondering where I was from, curious about what borough me to Korea, and my experiences. • Save up of course. There’s so much to buy and you will need space in your luggage for all the souvenirs so make sure you have a good financial plan for the time you will be there.

Woman Standing in front of Hanging Colored Lanterns, KoreaClient posing Peace Sign in front of the Korean University, Seoul Beach Group Photo of TEAN in Busan

Best Experience Ever

September 27, 2023by: Jackson Todd - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Studing abroad at Griffith University was the greatest decision of my entire life. Going through the TEAN organization was a blessing. TEAN is the way to do it, they offer immediate friends, support, and guidance. Without the TEAN program and the staff, my experience would have been lessened. I cannot express how incredible this experience was and I cannot recommend the TEAN program enough. The Gold Coast of Australia is such a beautiful place. The community is very welcoming and the city is great for new cultural activities. It is also close to Sydney and Melbourne if you're interested in a quick weekend there!

Summer in Barcelona!

September 24, 2023by: Brooke Delo - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Barcelona, Spain with WorldStrides

4

My summer study abroad experience in Barcelona was truly unforgettable! It was a transformative opportunity that expanded my academic horizons, deepened my cultural understanding, and fueled a lifelong passion for travel! Barcelona's central location allowed us to easily travel to lots of different destinations, adding even more depth to the experience. An amazing aspect of this program was the opportunity to connect with new people. Choosing to live in an apartment with girls also in the program was one of the best decisions. It truly felt like we were immersed into the energy of the city and became part of Barcelona. I absolutely recommend studying abroad through ISA, you will not regret it!

KU Winter 2022-2023

September 21, 2023by: Timothy Paczesniak - United States

Program: Study Abroad at Korea University with WorldStrides

4

When I first entered university I had a good idea about things I would see and do. Unfortunately, I started the year COVID hit and my college experience has been completely lackluster and miserable. I was beginning to think going to college in general is just a terrible experience. However, I took a chance in my junior year and studied abroad in Seoul. It was everything I imagined college should be like and more. I would 100% recommend taking that leap of faith to study abroad, it will definitely pay off.

The BEST experience ever!!!

September 17, 2023by: Meghan Taylor - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Florence, Italy with WorldStrides

5

My time in Florence, Italy with ISA was the best time of my life! I could not recommend this program more. I made memories to last a lifetime and I am so grateful for my experience. The ISA staff was wonderful and very helpful. The opportunity to live and learn in a new country is so special and I hope encourage everyone to do so!

Barcelona Study Abroad Summer of 2023

September 14, 2023by: Joshua Bilodeau - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Barcelona, Spain with WorldStrides

5

I highly recommend this trip. I think everything went as well as things could possibly go. My professor was funny, helpful, and very knowledgeable. I learned a lot in my class. It was challenging but not too hard. I felt completely safe in Barcelona. I was able to work out at a gym, go to the movies, go grocery shopping, and pretty much live my life how I do back in the United States. However, I was also able to see all of the museums, the sites, and get a good slice of Spanish culture. I had taken 3 semesters of Spanish which helped me greatly get around the city. This was my first time out of the country and the ISA staff gave me the best possible experience I could have hoped for.

I loved Florence!!!

September 13, 2023by: Regan Prieto - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Florence, Italy with WorldStrides

5

I would recommend this program! I had the best experience at Florence. The ISA staff were very helpful, and I learned so much. My apartment was nearby the city center which made exploring so easy. Florence is a smaller to medium city that was full of amazing foo and people. I loved being able to travel to new places and meet people from other universities studying there as well. I participated in the Chat Pal club as well when I was there. This allowed me to connect with locals and learn about their lives.

University of Auckland semester one 2023

September 12, 2023by: Kailoni

Program: Study Abroad in Auckland, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

I highly recommend every student to pull every string possible to study abroad. My personal bias is to do so in New Zealand. I fell in love with the country of New Zealand and grew more in this past semester than I have in my entire college experience. Studying abroad gives one the opportunity to be exposed to many new phenomenons of life. Studying abroad pushed me out of my comfort zone forcing much growth in my personal confidence while providing me the opportunity to explore my role in the greater scheme of the world. While quite intimidating, this exploration was freeing and exciting realizing that one could spend lifetimes exploring. Studying through TEAN gave me the privilege to explore on my own will having comfort in having the support of an onsite staff and community of other students in your same position. Our onsite director was so excited to share the Kiwi culture with us, from dinners to Rugby games she was more than willing to provide in suggestions for various activities. Additionally, due to the size of my field of study I was able to make friends that I am confident that I will stay in touch with for years to come. Every student should take the opportunity to study abroad. And if for nothing else, go for The Lord of The Rings sitings!

University of Auckland Semester One 2023

September 12, 2023by: Kailoni Christian - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Auckland, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

I highly recommend every student to pull every string possible to study abroad. My personal bias is to do so in New Zealand. I fell in love with the country of New Zealand and grew more this past semester than I have in my entire college experience. Studying abroad gives one the opportunity to be exposed to many new aspects of life. Studying abroad pushed me out of my comfort zone forcing much growth in my personal confidence while providing me the opportunity to explore my role in the greater scheme of the world. While quite intimidating, this exploration was freeing and exciting realizing that one could spend lifetimes exploring. Studying through TEAN gave me the privilege to explore on my own while enjoying the comfort of having the support of an onsite staff and community of other students in your same position. Our onsite director was so excited to share the Kiwi culture with us, from dinners to Rugby games she was more than willing to provide suggestions for various activities. Additionally, due to the size of my field of study I was able to make friends that I am confident that I will stay in touch with for years to come. Every student should take the opportunity to study abroad. And if for nothing else go for The Lord of The Rings sightings!

The best decision I've ever made.

September 08, 2023by: Delaney Kolar - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Florence, Italy with WorldStrides

5

I had such an amazing experience traveling to Florence to study fashion marketing! For me, going abroad has always been about getting to experience something that I could never do in the United States. I wanted to travel to a different environment to learn more about my future career, and also about the culture and beauty built around the world. I've always wanted to go to Italy, and after doing some research, I picked Florence because the city is known for its rich art and history. Everywhere I went, I was looking at art. I am so happy I pushed myself out of my comfort zone because I learned a lot about myself and have memories that will last a lifetime!

Spring in Valencia

September 06, 2023by: Isabella Arenas - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Valencia, Spain with WorldStrides

5

I went abroad to Valencia during the spring 2023 semester and it was one of the best experiences of my life! I learned a lot about Spanish culture, traveled around Europe & Morocco and met lifelong friends. While traveling, I was also able to complete credits at UCV for my kinesiology major. The classes I took were all interesting and we were given many resources if we ran into problems. Both of the advisors were also amazing and were there when we needed any type of help. I recommend going to study abroad in Spain!

Spring in Barcelona

September 06, 2023by: Charlotte Butterfield - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Barcelona, Spain with WorldStrides

5

I spent 4 months in Barcelona, Spain during the spring 2023 semester and it was an amazing experience! The city is beautiful and the people are so kind and welcoming. I was able to learn so much about the culture and broaden my Spanish speaking abilities which was a definite bonus. The programming through ISA provided me with great resources to resolve any issues (no matter the size) as well as some great excursions to other parts of Spain. I also loved being so close to such a large airport so that weekend traveling throughout the semester was as easy as possible. I loved my semester in Barcelona with ISA and would recommend it to anyone!

Living Life Up in Korea and at Korea University

September 05, 2023by: Taija Dudley - United States

Program: Study Abroad at Korea University with WorldStrides

5

I have never been outside in the United States and have honestly lived in the state of Ohio my whole life. So, leaving the country for the first time was extremely nerve-wracking. I could only think about the initial worries of how to migrate through a foreign airport and not knowing a single person arriving. Though, the TEAN program was very helpful. The amount of details and steps included in the directions per arrival genuinely helped me. I was efficient and arrived in the country where I will be studying for the next four months without majorly freaking out. As someone who struggled with high anxiety. Through the program I have probably met people that I will never forget. The way I want to achieve differently in school, I gained a sort of motivation I was lacking prior. I also went outside of my bubble and made the first move to create friendships. I loved how I was able to improve to be a different version of myself. With a different outlook of things and overcoming my anxieties. Even simple accomplishments like trying new foods, walking in new areas, and studying in different environments. Being able to adapt and improve my skill-sets is the best opportunity I could have received. Thanks to the program, I received a new love for traveling and hopefully I can go back to Korea soon.

BusanBusan TempleRoommate Picnic on Campus (KU)

A Time I will Never Forget

September 02, 2023by: Kainu'u Gavin - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Tokyo, Japan

4

Being able to return to Japan had been a lifelong goal of mine. It had been around 7+ years since I had last gone and I wanted to truly have an amazing college experience in Japan. I was lucky enough to find TEAN with my International Dean and was able to make it work out. The people with TEAN were always there to help me if I ever needed anything, especially medically. However, it allowed me to finally become more independent and be able to practice the Japanese I was learning in my Japanese I class at JF Oberlin. The results were that I was able to make some lifelong friends, both RJ and Japanese students, and experience some amazing sporting and cultural events. I hope in the future I can study in Japan for graduate school. I would highly recommend anyone who is interested in studying abroad in Japan to consider going through TEAN.

ISA Galway Service Learning

August 31, 2023by: Thomas Ward - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Galway, Ireland with WorldStrides

4

I had a great experience with ISA in Galway! I participated in their service-learning program, where, instead of taking an academic course with a university, I interned with a local community radio station. There, I gained a lot of valuable experience working in radio, and I met a lot of incredible people! The program is structured amazingly, and places an emphasis on cultural knowledge and the overall impact of study abroad programs. I learned a lot from my coworkers about wider contemporary Irish socio-economic culture, and current relevant problems and debates.

Life Changing Year in South Korea

August 31, 2023by: Abby Wilson - United States

Program: Study Abroad at Korea University with WorldStrides

4

Studying in Seoul through TEAN made a huge impact on my time in Korea! I was helped through the whole process, from getting my visa and setting up appointments for residency to preparing transcripts. TEAN also took care of university housing, which was a huge plus because my friends with other programs spoke about how difficult it was to get housing. There are also fun activities that TEAN organizes that take you to places in Korea you may not have thought to visit such as Nami Island and you can connect with other students and with the staff on these trips. I felt at ease knowing that the Seoul staff was there to help me with any issues that came up while I was abroad. I truly enjoyed living in Seoul and felt very safe even when walking alone at night, just remember to be aware! The public transportation is amazing, it is very clean and reliable and is usually around $1 per subway/bus ride. Even though Anam (where Korea University is located) isn’t in the center of Seoul having access to Korea’s public transportation system made the huge city of Seoul feel accessible and the journeys never felt very long. I loved hanging out in Myeongdong with my friends going to cafes and eating street food. For me, Myeongdong is the right amount of bustling without being overwhelming like Hongdae can be sometimes. It can be a bit difficult to adjust to living in a new country but knowing some Korean and making friends makes it a lot easier. I am very glad I decided to go to Korea after two years of learning Korea because I was able to navigate lots of events on my own and it helped boost my confidence every time I could. Being able to make deep friendships with both foreign and local students is something I will forever hold dear and would go abroad again with TEAN.

GO if you Can! You will not regret being a student at KU

August 31, 2023by: Daeun Mun - United States

Program: Study Abroad at Korea University with WorldStrides

5

I studied abroad in Korea at Korea University last semester and honestly, it was one of the best decisions I have ever made!! I met great people worldwide and honestly, I cannot think of any bad thing in Korea. It almost feels like I was on a vacation to meet new people. TEAN also offered a lot of activities for us and they were all very FUN! I thought people were being dramatic when they talked about their study abroad experiences and it used to bother me a lot. But I see myself only talking about my life in Korea NONSTOP to everyone I meet! 10000% Recommended!

Best month ever !

August 29, 2023by: Brynlee Stubbs - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Malaga, Spain with WorldStrides

5

I spent a little over a month in Málaga, Spain this past June and it was the best decision of my life! My ISA group had the very best guide named Iker who was a Málaga native & taught us Spanish while taking us on tours all over the city! He watched out for our safety by teaching us all about societal norms and how they differed from what we were used to. We went on phenomenal excursions including Sevilla, Córdoba, and the Alhambra in Granada! It was amazing to see different cities in Southern Spain and how they differed. I loved getting to live like a local and even participate in a local holiday celebration! I will never forget all of the wonderful people I met and everything Spain taught me.

2023 Study Abroad in Rome!

August 28, 2023by: Molly Paez - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Rome, Italy with WorldStrides

4

I loved my study abroad experience because the teachers were supportive and let us explore. One of my teachers would even have tea time with us and offer us sweets as well. I appreciated the fact that we could be open with them. Not only were the teachers considerate, the places were so beautiful and I liked how we could visit places for free because of passes our teachers got for us. Not only did we visit the sites in Rome we also visited places all over Italy such as Florence and Assisi. Even though those visits were school related, it was still easy to go away and have your own adventure. Not only did we visit sites for school it was also easy to go visit other places in Italy during the weekend which was appreciated.

Life-Changing experience

August 26, 2023by: Sarah K - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Florence, Italy with WorldStrides

4

My life-changing moment was exploring Florence, Italy through the culture and cuisine. I tried new dishes while learning about the culture! Immersing myself in another culture gave me a new perspective on life!

Hanyang University with TEAN

August 25, 2023by: Julia Yu - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Busan, South Korea with WorldStrides

5

I had an amazing experience studying abroad with TEAN during Spring 2023. With all of the fun activities TEAN prepared for us like touring Nami Island, going to Busan, and a Han river cruise, I definitely don't regret picking TEAN for my study abroad experience. It was also reassuring knowing that we could contact TEAN staff in Korea basically at any time and the onsite staff is very kind! South Korea is a great destination for study abroad as it's easy to travel around the country with its convenient public transportation and school life there is very dynamic! I would definitely recommend studying abroad in South Korea with TEAN.

¡Soy una Madrileña!

August 24, 2023by: Isabella Johnson - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Madrid, Spain with WorldStrides

4

ISA offered the perfect balance of guidance and freedom in my study abroad experience, making their resources for student success crystal clear. I absolutely loved attending excursions as the ISA staff were very knowledgeable about the history and amenities of Madrid and each city we traveled to. Outside of these events, the staff and my host family gave great tips and tricks for exploring independently and on a budget. One of my favorite parts of going to Madrid with ISA is that they have students in two different universities and a wide range of majors, allowing me to interact with students I wouldn’t have met in class. If you love a new adventure every day, I highly recommend heading to a big city like Madrid and taking the metro to wherever the map calls you!

La aventura te espera!!!

August 24, 2023by: Andrijana Nikitovic - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Granada, Spain with WorldStrides

4

My time in Granada was nothing short of enchanting, wonderful, and outright life changing. This program allowed me to see a whole new side of the world, and I just can't wait to go back already! From dancing in the streets of Toledo to visiting the beautiful Alhambra palace, to having the opportunity for travel on a budget...it couldn't have been any better. I made some of my greatest friends through this program, and saw so many new things and places I never would've been able to without it. The onsite staff were amazing and helped my friends and I at any time that we needed them, and they took us on so many tours of the city where we were given the opportunity to learn more about the beauty that is Granada. My language skills improved tenfold, I met people from all over the world, and most importantly, I learned more about myself and grew as a person. So what are you waiting for? Granada is the place to be!!!!

Weekend trip to Marrakesh, Morocco!Weekend in Morocco with friends!Excursion to Sevilla with ISA!

Abroad in Seoul

August 23, 2023by: Ava McKula - United States

Program: Study Abroad at Korea University with WorldStrides

4

Seoul was such an incredible city to experience during the Spring 2023 semester. I had great quality of life in terms of safety, affordability, and amusement! There are endless things to do in Seoul like explore the food scene, take in the city's green spaces, do some great shopping, or going to karaoke. The TEAN staff was very helpful in making me feel prepared prior to my program in terms of helping me get my visa, teaching me about the cultural expectations of Korea, and even just guidance on what to pack. I also felt reassured in that there were TEAN staff members on-site during my stay abroad.

Why Argentina is so great

August 22, 2023by: Edith Bradley - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Buenos Aires, Argentina with WorldStrides

5

The ISA program in Buenos Aires is a valuable experience! I cannot recommend going abroad, especially in South America enough. The city was welcoming and warm, and the metropolis always offered something to do. Whether you are more interested in music, art, science or history, Buenos Aires has options. The ISA staff (shoutout to Gaby) was always attentive and available to help with anything I needed. The University of Belgrano was housed in a safe neighborhood and had interesting course offerings. I was able to meet people from around the world there. It is a great environment to learn about Latin American culture and history, and the people are always friendly and willing to help you out with your Spanish. With lots to do in the city, a whole semester can fly by, but I appreciated that the ISA staff also had recommendations for trips to do in all of Argentina. I fully recommend not only coming to Latin America but seeing as much as possible while you are here. Even after a month back in the US, I find myself missing the life in Buenos Aires.

Make sure to visit San Telmo while you’re there!

Life changing experience!

August 22, 2023by: Kailynn Loughnane - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

4

Studying abroad with TEAN was just as life changing as they talk about during orientation. Obviously moving across the world with no one you know can be intimidating, however not once did I feel alone. They do an amazing job at introducing you to the new culture and world while also providing an environment to build friendships and a new sense of adventure. When talking about my experience abroad the best word to describe it was surreal. There was so much to see and do, yet that only enhanced my confidence in travel and independence.

Absolutely life-changing

August 22, 2023by: Raylin Domenech - United States

Program: Study Abroad at Korea University with WorldStrides

5

Going to Seoul with TEAN made a huge difference with my experience abroad! They help with visa processing, preparing transcripts, setting up our residence appointments, and more. A big plus was that TEAN conducted the housing process, which my non-TEAN peers said was very challenging and competitive. We had so many fun excursions planned out throughout the semester that it made forming friendships very easy, all while knocking things off our bucket lists. Attending university in the Spring, especially Korea University, means so many university events with music festivals being the highlight. The semester builds up to these events through iconic school spirit events such as Korea vs. Yonsei cheer competitions, I would say I feel more school pride for KU than my home university thanks to these events. Seoul has an endless amount of possible activities, from karaoke to making your own jewelry to accessible travel outside the city, one could never get bored here. On average I spent less than $10 for a good quality meal, and transportation was usually $1 per train/bus ride. Getting to Korea can be expensive, but the cost of living definitely makes up for it.

person standing with a jacket facing Korea University
Raylin Domenech video

A life changing opportunity.

August 19, 2023by: Carly Richardson - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Cusco, Peru with WorldStrides

5

I had the most incredible experience with ISA during my time in Cusco! From the moment I arrived in Peru, I was warmly welcomed by the program coordinators who made me feel right at home. The academic aspect was equally enriching; the courses were thoughtfully designed and provided a perfect balance between classroom learning and real-world exploration. Beyond academics, the program's cultural immersion activities allowed me to truly understand and appreciate the local way of life, traditions, and customs. The support system in place, including the dedicated staff and fellow participants, created a tight-knit community that made me feel welcomed and connected. This journey has not only broadened my perspective but also given me lifelong friends from around the world. I'm immensely grateful for this experience and would wholeheartedly recommend this study abroad program to anyone seeking personal growth, academic advancement, and unforgettable memories.

Machu Picchu

Greatest Time of my Life

August 18, 2023by: Keagan Lahart - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

5

My time in Sevilla during my study abroad with ISA was by far the greatest experience of my life. From the excursions to the course and the people I met through the program, my semester was packed full of excitement and life-changing experiences. I lived with a host family, and by the end of my time in Spain, they had become like a second family to me. With my host parents, I was able to become so immersed in the city of Sevilla, learning about its rich history, culture, and traditions. The ISA staff was also incredible! They are there to make sure you stay safe, but also to ensure you have the most fun possible on your study abroad. In my program, we did excursions to Morocco, Lisbon, Gibraltar, and a few other places, and the ISA staff was always right there with you having fun. As far as classes go, I took mine at a local university with many other international students. This was amazing because I became friends with students from all over the world. My time with ISA was truly incredible and it has left me wanting more and ready to plan another trip abroad.

ISA Study Abroad in Chile

August 16, 2023by: Caitlin Deffendall - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Chile with WorldStrides

4

While studying abroad with ISA in Chile, I had a great experience with my host family and made new friends through the program. I did not get as many opportunities to interact with Chileans as I'd thought and the schedule was rigorous but I had a unique chance to learn about Latin American healthcare and politics. It was different than I expected it to be but different is not good or bad-- it's just different. Overall I would recommend studying abroad to every student so that they gain knowledge about themselves and the world around them.

ISA Abroad at UCD

August 16, 2023by: Sage McBride - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Dublin, Ireland with WorldStrides

5

I had the most wonderful experience studying abroad at University College Dublin with ISA! Aside from loving every second studying at the university, I was able to have many experiences outside of Dublin. UCD quickly became home, and I will always cherish the friends and memories made during my time abroad. Excursions planned by ISA allowed me to see other parts of the country and connect with other studying with ISA. I especially loved the flexibility and support of the program as I was able to safely take trips outside of Ireland during the semester. This experience was something I will always miss, and I am so grateful to have had the opportunity!

Temple BarCliffs of MoherTrinity College Dublin

Beautiful Memories

August 16, 2023by: Ping Melchior - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Athens, Greece with WorldStrides

4

My time abroad In Greece was so much fun. I have made friends for life; I don't know how I would live without these people. The on-site staff is super friendly, and they are very helpful. It was a fantastic time, I was there during the fall, and I think this is the perfect time to be. We had about a month and a half of fantastic weather where we spent most of our free time on the beach, which are very quickly accessible. Then we had lovely fall weather and even got some snow towards the end. I never felt unsafe in the neighborhood where the dorms are super safe. It was also a pleasant walk from the school, so you got to explore the neighborhood a little, don't the way to the school. The school itself is very lovely; the teachers are all friendly and very helpful. IMPORTANT, as an American, attendance was not something super important in college classes, but here is it. You need to show up, and if you're sick, you need a doctor's note to get your absences excused.

DephiAcropolis

Cultural Explosion

August 16, 2023by: Ping Melchior - United States

Program: Study Abroad at Korea University with WorldStrides

4

I studied abroad during the summer, and I loved it. It was shorter, and I didn't get to meet as many students at KU, but I got to meet many other people from the USA who were there to study. The dorms are very close to the MRT; you can take it anywhere. You literally can go anywhere. I loved how we could explore so much of the city and how easy it was. The food is fantastic, and you can get a variety of the same food, whether it is tteokbokki, bibimbop, jjajangmyeon, and more. I went as the first group after COVID, so it was a little stricter, and we weren't allowed to do as much stuff. But it was so much fun just to be there and experience how beautiful the city is.

Friends I met

Best Place to Travel Abroad

August 16, 2023by: Ping Melchior - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

I loved Thailand so much, I have studied abroad multiple times, and this was my favorite place. I loved the country's beauty; the food and prices were cheap, and the culture was so beautiful. Only 15 of us were in my program, so we got to know each other very well. We also got to make friends with the further study abroad students and the Thai students, who were super friendly and wanted to hang out and make friends with you. Our resident director, Mamiaw, was terrific. She made it feel like she wasn't only our resident director but also our friend; she would go out with us and meet up with us if we were in the city. She took time out of her say to hang out with us, and it made such a big difference because I felt more comfortable talking and asking for help.

Phi Phi Island

TEAN: Bond University in Gold Coast, Australia

August 15, 2023by: Peyton Korzenik - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

4

I absolutely LOVED my TEAN experience studying abroad at Bond University in Gold Coast, Australia!!! The trip started out with an amazing TEAN orientation the week prior to the start of classes where I got to SCUBA dive on the Great Barrier Reef, skydive, and hold a koala bear at a wildlife sanctuary! Bond University’s campus is in the perfect location to take advantage of all that the Gold Coast has to offer! A number of famous Australian beaches, a huge shopping center, and tons of cultural restaurants were just a bus ride away! Whether or not you decide to plan any extra trips to other parts of Australia or other countries, you will find that there is so much to do near the Gold Coast alone! The natural landscape is so stunning and lush that you will want to be a part of it - there is ample opportunity to take surfing lessons, go on long hikes, visit breathtaking waterfalls, or just grab a book to read on the beach! An excursion to Sydney is a must! While there, I visited the world famous Sydney Opera House and the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge. Just a short bus ride over to the beach, I spent a day over at Bondi Beach, where the Bondi Icebergs Pool is located. Allegedly the most photographed pool in the world, the Bondi Iceberg Pool, which overlooks the Pacific Ocean, is an unbelievable sight. With the ocean waves splashing over into the pool, my swim in this pool was a highlight of my trip that I wish everyone could experience. All of these experiences could not have been possible without TEAN. My TEAN leaders were so welcoming and personable and were available throughout the semester if we needed help or just wanted to chat. I found the TEAN weekly Coffee Chats, optional field trips, and the variety of other activities to be impressive. While adapting to a new culture and environment, it was comforting to know that they were just a text or call away and were available to address any of my questions or needs. I made so many friends from all over the world and learned so much both inside and outside the classroom. TEAN knew exactly how to set my classmates and me up for success in Australia - I could not recommend an experience more!

SCUBA Diving in the Great Barrier ReefSurfers at Duranbah BeachBondi Iceberg Pool in Sydney, Australia

I loved this experience! Best time abroad!!!

August 10, 2023by: Shannon Auletta - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

4

I absolutely loved my time studying abroad during Summer 1 2023 with ISA in Seville! I got to meet so many other college students from around the US and we all became super close!! I also loved the city of Seville, as it was full of rich history, culture and beauty! I loved all the tapas bar and restaurants and how friendly the people are. The city is also super clean and feels really safe! There is a lot of Spanish spoken here, so I really got to practice and perfect my language skills! The ISA team was always so helpful and gave us awesome, immersive weekend trips! I lived in the student residencia, which was so big and nice, but I know my friends liked their accommodations as well. Classes were great and my professor was so sweet and knowledgeable. Couldn't recommend this program enough and wish it lasted forever!

My new favorite place on Earth

August 10, 2023by: Angelica Chaparro - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Chile with WorldStrides

5

The ISA program in Valparaíso, Chile was fantastic. The ISA staff were quick to respond to any questions or concerns that I had and helpful throughout the entire program. Anytime you needed anything, they were there, but it was never so much that the program felt guided; it is still quite independent. Public transportation was quick, cheap, and reliable so you could get anywhere in Valparaíso or Viña Del Mar with ease. The host families are incredibly kind, adaptable with their exchange students, and an amazing support system to have while abroad. The option to have independent housing is also available if you would like, so the program is very customizable. The academics are also able to be unique to the individual student so earning credit at home should be no problem. Beyond that the cities are full of gorgeous colorful buildings, murals, and stunning ocean views. You are sure to find some great places to eat, shop, and spend time with friends. The locals are typically very helpful and kind. You aren’t too far from Santiago so you can have fun at the Capital or travel easily to different cities in the country. If you love nature, the lakes region, Atacama Desert, and Chilean Patagonia are incredible places to visit. This program was the best part of my college experience and I will always remember fondly. I highly, highly recommend this program to anyone interested.

A view of Cerro Bellavista from a restaurant balcony near Pablo Neruda’s house

Study Abroad In Seoul

August 10, 2023by: Stella Cortese - United States

Program: Study Abroad at Korea University with WorldStrides

4

Studying abroad in a city like Seoul has offered me so many new perspectives. South Korea was an amazing destination to study abroad; with so many places to explore, eat, shop, and see, I believe Korea has something for everyone. I am glad I chose this program to study abroad because they have provided me with numerous resources to make this trip as smooth as possible. The ISA/TEAN staff was extremely helpful throughout the process, and their activities, lunches, and orientations made the first few weeks in Korea feel less overwhelming. This gave us the opportunity to meet and make friends with other international students. The on-site team was wonderful, and they had all the resources necessary to assist the international students. The staff planned fun excursions for the TEAN students and were very easy to talk to! One of the excursions included a weekend getaway to a city called Busan, where we had access to a private bus to take the TEAN students around the city and explore various popular travel locations. Seoul is a technologically advanced city where everything seems to make sense. Everything in Seoul is more efficient, aesthetically pleasing, and beautiful than anything I've seen in the United States. Seoul is buzzing with people and activities, with opportunities for amazing and fun nightlife, cafe hopping, city shopping, and even some sightseeing. The nightlife is a must-have experience for students studying in Seoul. Busan, a coastal city about 3 hours outside of Seoul, is a coastal town with incredible views and landscape, beautiful beaches and fish markets to try, and everything from Buddhist temples to small colorful villages to walk through. While Jeju is a small island off the coast of Korea, it is only an hour away by plane and has a completely different vibe than the city. It feels like a tropical vacation, complete with beautiful beaches, palm trees, fresh food and fruits, and amazing views. It has opened my eyes to the reality of the culture and way of life in Korea. I am happy to have experienced such a unique and advanced city, where I felt safe and independent despite the language barrier.

Hanbok & visiting the palaceIpselenti Concert

Best experience in my life

August 09, 2023by: Anya Noll - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Valencia, Spain with WorldStrides

4

Valencia was the best choice I have ever made. I studied abroad through ISA but I am a nursing major, and it was a little difficult to find a program that met my requirements so I could still enter nursing school. Valencia provided the opportunity to not only get into nursing school but learn so much about myself, how I handle difficult situations, and just be free to experience life and different cultures. I loved the friends I made, and the people I was with that made this experience the best.

Studying Down Under: Best Decision Ever!

August 06, 2023by: Noah DeCosta - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

4

My time abroad with TEAN at Griffith University in the Gold Coast, Australia was most likely the most fun and pivotal experience in my life thus far. This program allowed me to travel to and live in Australia, a country filled with culture, beautiful scenery, famous landmarks, and plenty of nature. TEAN allowed me to fulfill my lifelong passion of traveling the world while still working toward my education as well. TEAN’s support during the planning, moving, and living stages of my time abroad was also a great resource that contributed to the quality of my time down under. They had great staff always willing to help solve a problem and give recommendations for traveling. They also held great events including our program to help us meet our fellow travellers and get immersed in the Australian continent and culture. This program showed me how important it is to take steps out of your comfort zones and to follow your dreams and goals, even if working toward them may seem daunting at first. Overall, I fulfilled my passion for traveling, learning about new cultures, meeting new people, and continuing my education while abroad with TEAN. I will never forget the experiences I had and the memories I made during this trip.

Korea University!

August 05, 2023by: Adehl Bavar - United States

Program: Study Abroad at Korea University with WorldStrides

5

It was the best 4 months that I've ever lived. I highly encourage everyone to do a semester abroad! One of my favorite activities was going to a 24h spa at 3am and just relaxing there. I traveled a TON and had so many wobderful experiences! I got to see Jeju Island, visit many museums (a huge majority which was free), eat deliciois and cheap foods, and visit cute cafes. Seoul felt extremely safe. I traveled alone and never felt uncomfortable (also helps that people are respectful.) Once again come to Seoul because there is a lot to do (Im definitely going back) and it will be an amazing experience!

Best 4 months of my life

August 03, 2023by: Jacob Sienkowski - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

5

My semester in Sevilla was the best time of my life. I met so many great people and had countless experiences that I will never forget. Each trip I went on was amazing, and I am already trying to figure out how to go back. My host family made the experience even better, and I cannot wait to see them again.

Study Abroad Post-COVID

July 26, 2023by: Angelina Latin - United States

Program: Study Abroad in London, England with WorldStrides

4

I absolutely loved my study abroad experience, and I am so grateful that I was able to do it following the COVID lockdown. I studied abroad at the University of Westminster located in Central London and stayed in an off-campus flat (but still under the university) in Shoreditch, which is in East London. It was super easy to both adjust to and navigate the city whether it was through the Tube or by bus. I loved both living and exploring in the city. I got to go to Kensington Palace, watch Hamilton live (my first Broadway show), a London basketball game, Buckingham Palace, and more. All of my classes were experiential, so I not only got to learn a lot inside of the classroom through guest speakers, discussions with other study abroad or domestic students, or lectures from professors, but I also got the opportunity to explore London through an academic lens. Through my criminology courses, we had field walks where we learned about the history of criminality and the London underworld. I took Black London: From Tudors to Today where I went to the Museum of London Docklands, Black Cultural Archives, Bank of England, and the National Maritime Museum in Greenwich. England, specifically London, has an extensive history of colonization, but is also incredibly diverse racially. Unfortunately, however, there were a lot of strikes by both the train and lecturers, and as a result, I did not have a consistent academic schedule. Socially, I went to a couple of university-sponsored events, mainly through the dance team, but I primarily went to the excursions hosted by ISA. I went on the tour around London, Stonehenge, Brighton, Bath, the Shakespeare World Theatre, and Borough Market--all wonderful experiences that I am very grateful to have taken advantage of given that they are not close to London. I also went on a couple of day trips to both Cambridge and Oxford--both of which were doable because I lived close to train stations that went outside of London; I actually went to Cambridge with a couple of people through the ISA program. Overall, I am very grateful for my study abroad experience and would recommend it to everyone.

This is a picture of me at Stonehenge, an ISA-sponsored excursion. Following this stop, we went to Bath, where we visited the Roman Baths. It is a cute little day trip.

Good balance of school work and cultural experiences

July 25, 2023by: Julia Porter - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Cusco, Peru with WorldStrides

4

Something I was worried about with this program was being overwhelmed with school work and not being able to explore the city and learn through experiences, but the staff were very accommodating of that and while the work in classes was challenging for me (who isn't yet fluent in Spanish), I had more than enough free time and didn't feel burdened by the course load. That being said, I feel like I didn't learn that much in the actually classes, but they were still good experiences. My host family and staff were very willing to work with me and my schedule, they both wanted me to explore and learn as much as I could!

So glad I did it

July 24, 2023by: Q T - Vietnam

Program: Study Abroad in Athens, Greece with WorldStrides

5

I signed up for the program not expecting much, other than being at a place I've never been before, and I got back more than I could have ever asked for. ISA program have created a wonderful community, where through that, I was able to foster meaningful friendships that I will forever hold close to my heart. I met some of the most open-minded individuals . Also, the locals were extremely friendly towards study-abroad students, and were willing to help out since I didn't speak Greek. I took classes with other international students and Greek students. The classes were taught in English, and students communicate with each other in English. ISA was very helpful in helping me pick my courses. On the weekends, we would go on organized excursion trips to different sightseeing spots in Athens, and the surrounding areas, as well as attending cultural classes like dancing and cooking. Overall, it was a great experience and I'm so glad I did it.

Best experience

July 21, 2023by: Emily Antonik - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Barcelona, Spain with WorldStrides

4

Studying abroad has been one of the best experiences I could have ever imagined being a part of. When deciding to study in Barcelona I had no idea how fun and eye opening the experience was going to be. From the lifestyle to culture and atmosphere of Barcelona I couldn't have asked for a better place to live for four months. ISA was able to provide me with the best support and guidance before, during and even after my time abroad. During the application process ISA was there to help with any question or concern I had as well as during, as the office was right down the street from my residency. ISA even provided us with excursions and put together a soccer league which brought together so many students

Lewis in Rome

July 18, 2023by: Christian Malagon-Bravo - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Rome, Italy with WorldStrides

4

Participating in the Rome Study Abroad opportunity was a huge step for me. I was the first one in all of my family to go to Europe. I wasn’t sure what to expect when I first arrived, but right away I felt safe and supported throughout the program. There was so much to do around the neighborhood and the transportation from our living quarters was great! I would highly recommend this program to freshman at Lewis University because it’s the only program a freshman can do their second semester. I would love to go back some day!

Going to an AS Roma match!

Best Experience Ever

July 16, 2023by: Taylor Ball - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

4

Going to the Gold Coast in Australia was the best experience of my life. I had so much fun and met so many new people. I especially loved being able to experience the nature and beauty of the Great Barrier Reef the very first week I arrived. Seeing all of the animals native to the country is something I will never forget. Gold Coast is the perfect location because of its many beaches and superior schooling. It also has a vibrant nightlife. I had the best time ever living on the Gold Coast. If you have the ability to study here, do it!

Spring 2023 in Barcelona Spain through UPF

July 06, 2023by: Andrea Stancescu - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Barcelona, Spain with WorldStrides

4

My semester abroad in Barcelona at UPF was arguably the best semester of my undergraduate experience. The pre-departure organization and communication was great with lots of individualized help and attention. It was really easy to schedule meetings and get in contact with Anna since I had many questions and logistical problems prior to departing. The course offerings weren't too flexible and once you register for your classes you cannot switch them either. I tried to drop a class I found out was no longer necessary and I was not allowed to after the first day of the program. I also didn't get my top 3 course choices. So please be flexible and be prepared to not get your first choice class. Do lots of prior research to find the most flexible program with the best classes for your major. The things I learned and experiences and opportunities I had made up for any sort of complication or struggle I had. I learned so much more in my semester abroad than I ever would in a classroom. I highly recommend this program to everyone!

University of Sydney with TEAN!

March 06, 2023by: Homa Askari - United States

Program: Study Abroad at University of Sydney with WorldStrides

4

Studying abroad in Australia during university had always been a dream of mine and I am so happy I was able to go with a TEAN/ISA program! This program was extremely helpful and supportive throughout my application process, once I arrived in Sydney, all the way until it was time to head back home to the US. The staff are always available to answer any and all questions applying students may have and provide thorough instructions on how to complete the application process. Once you arrive in Australia, all students attend a 5-day orientation packed with so many fun activities where you get to know your peers and how to best assimilate to the Aussie lifestyle. Throughout the semester, the program hosts multiple different cultural experiences and events. The program provides many resources and point of contacts students can utilize throughout their stay to make their stay as enjoyable as possible. I would highly recommend for everyone to study abroad during their time in university, and if you choose to do so, go with a TEAN/ISA program! You will not regret it, the memories will last a lifetime!

Sydney Opera HouseSydney Harbour BridgeThree Sisters walk in Australia
Homa Askari video

Granada is simply the best!

March 04, 2023by: Kyle Shively - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Granada, Spain with WorldStrides

4

Studying abroad in Granada gave me the ability to connect with Spanish locals and other Europeans as there are so many students here! There are so many restaurants and shops to be explored as well as unique places to discover with your new friends! The best part was the included excursions and the ability to travel with others! If you are considering Spain for your study abroad destination, Granada should be a top choice!

Best time with amazing people!

January 24, 2023by: Lytzy Hernandez - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Lima, Peru with WorldStrides

5

This program was full of adventure and amazing experiences. I loved all the excursions from Ica/Paracas and Iquitos. Not only that but during our free weekends ISA team supported us to safely travel to Cusco because it became unavailable to us as an excursion that would be included in the program. This showed how willing they were able to help us really enjoy our time. As far as academics, the program allowed me to fulfill my Spanish minor in a fun way!

One trip, endless memories

December 07, 2022by: Thanh Nguyen - United States

Program: Intern Abroad in Vietnam with WorldStrides

4

My experience in HCMC, Vietnam, was so impactful that some days I just get random flashbacks and memories that make me ache to be back there. It makes me feel so grateful and happy to have gone through this life-changing event in my life. I went to Vietnam to finish an internship for school out of academic obligations, but because of it, was able to make many beautiful memories and important decisions. From getting to travel to various cities to eating delicious food to learning more about my native culture/customs, I had an amazing time in Vietnam. I dearly miss all my relatives, friends, and colleagues I made abroad. I hope to return someday because being in Vietnam was so magical that I'll never forget it. For viewers reading this, you should check out my Instagram which details my traveling experience!

canyoning in Da Lat, Vietnam

Supporting and serving women in Morocco at Al Amal while engaging with locals and the culture!!!

July 29, 2022by: Nadine El Maalem - United States

Program: Community Engagement in Meknes, Morocco with WorldStrides

5

I had an amazing time on my service-learning + study abroad program in Meknes, Morocco with ISA! The local organization I was placed with served to help women continue or complete their education, as well as served children and young adults alike in learning English, tech skills, etc. I not only taught a weekly English class to local Moroccan students (ages 7-15), but I helped support my organization through clerical tasks, DIY projects like repainting the classroom, and developing and maintaining their social media presence. The ISA Meknes program is a fantastic one in terms of how great the included trips/excursions are, but the resident staff are beyond helpful, caring, and dedicated to helping students, and the service-learning team is just as committed to helping us have a good experience. The staff at my organization treated me like family and were flexible with my hours, letting me work from home, and if I did come in, we often ended the day with tea and snacks :-) Best volunteer/work experience I've had throughout my time in college!

English classroomSunset in Marrakech
Nadine El Maalem video

Excellent international experience!

May 10, 2022by: Lydia M - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Malaga, Spain with WorldStrides

5

ISA focused on the key aspects of life and allowed for a seamless transition to life in Spain! The ISA staff and program managers are eager to show you their city and give us the Malagueñan experience. They were available consistently and supported us through our education. We were able to have a truly Spanish experience and see the key parts of the culture in action. The ISA sponsored excursions allowed us to the country outside of our city and expanded my cultural horizons.

International Studies Abroad (ISA) program was a life safer and gave me the opportunity to gain cultural perspective.

April 08, 2022by: Samantha Sanchez - United States
5

Unfortunately, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, my study abroad program was canceled. Despite this, the Gilman Scholarship offered options to use our award for virtual learning opportunities. I decided to look for programs through International Studies Abroad (ISA), which had many virtual learning choices. I was excited to find a program that aligned with my major in San Jose, Costa Rica that focused on health psychology. Through virtual learning, I engaged with a diverse team from different nations including my Costa Rican professor which broadened my general understanding of health psychology, social context, influence, health, and illness from a cultural perspective. For instance, I presented a case study about the issues of child labor in the U.S and Costa Rica. I discovered that child labor was outlawed in both countries at different times; the U.S in 1938 and Costa Rica not until 2020.The main reasons for the time gap were poverty, lack of education, and lack of healthcare in Costa Rica. Although, I would prefer to study in Costa Rica in person, it was certainly a cultural exchange and a great opportunity to meet individual from different nations who are interested in the same issues I am.

Amazing experience

February 28, 2022by: Gabriella Winters - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Rome, Italy with WorldStrides

4

I studied abroad during the midst of the pandemic. I was able to see and explore Rome when it was empty of tourist. Museums and restaurants were still open so we were able to experience the culture without any problems. We lived outside the touristy area of the city where all the authentic restaurants were. The school and the teachers were great as well! I really enjoyed learning from them.

A lif-changing experience

January 28, 2022by: Dylan Beattie - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Barcelona, Spain with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad with ISA has been a life-changing experience. I am now a global ambassador for ISA as well as planning to study abroad again. Studying abroad was the best decision I have ever made! I had an amazing host mom which did more for me than she needed to. I was very immersed in the culture and the classes offered all related to spain in some way. I primarily went for the skateboarding and I met so many locals throughout it. I went to 9 different countries and without ISA's help, it wouldn't have been as relaxing and fun as it would have been.

My experience in Granada

August 30, 2021by: Sabrina Casias - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Granada, Spain with WorldStrides

5

My time studying in Granada with ISA was an amazing opportunity. The ISA residential coordinator in Granada was extremely helpful with any questions and getting accustomed to a new culture. The office was right around the corner from the CLM (where classes were held) which was convenient. We got to do a cultural activity every week for the summer program plus the residential coordinator gave us a paper with more cultural activities we could do on our own. Granada is a smaller city so it was nice that almost everything was in walking distance. I am glad I chose to study abroad with ISA and to such an amazing city.

My study abroad experience

August 26, 2021by: Kirsten Blaha

Program: Study Abroad in Florence, Italy with WorldStrides

5

I was lucky enough to travel to Florence, Italy this past summer for studying abroad. The class I took was Fashion Design which was one of my favorite parts about being abroad. I was only there 3 weeks and I wish I could have stayed longer because it was such an amazing experience. It is probably one of the best times my entire life and now I am so excited to keep traveling. While I was studying abroad, I got to travel on weekends to different places in Italy by train! Also, I have become obsessed with paninis, risotto, and croissants; the food there was too good. If you are thinking about studying abroad, I highly recommend. (:

Amazing experience!

February 02, 2021by: Ashlyn Smith - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Barcelona, Spain with WorldStrides

5

ISA in Barcelona was an amazing study abroad program! I had the best host mom and stayed in what ended up being my favorite neighborhood in all of Barcelona: Gracia. I felt very prepared with ISA going into the semester and when we first arrived. Our point of contact for the program was also super quick to respond to any questions I had. I highly recommend this study abroad program. Barcelona is a beautiful city, and you really get the chance to experience the city's culture and history.

A life changing, eye opening experience I highly recommend!

December 31, 2020by: Chauntel Jewett - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

TEAN is and was an amazing program. They were so helpful and friendly and really wanted each student to have the best experience possible. TEAN is a great study abroad program that encouraged academic learning as well as exploring the area by immersing yourself in the culture. They offered many resources and were wonderful at communicating to make sure your experience was everything you dreamed of. TEAN did a great job teaching us the local language, types of food that are popular, as well as the do's and don'ts. Everyone in the area and at university was welcoming and friendly and excited to get to know us as much as we were excited to meet them and other locals. TEAN did a good job making everyone in the program comfortable and at ease with the social and cultural integration. Studying abroad is 100% worthwhile. The experience allows you to gain independence and a sense of freedom to live each and every day to how you see fit. I gained new knowledge and different perspectives from attending university. I met new people from across the states as well as locals that I still call friends. I think everyone should study abroad because its an experience that you cant explain but highly recommend!

A life changing experience

December 12, 2020by: Marissa Owens - United States

Program: Study Abroad at Korea University with WorldStrides

5

I do not regret choosing TEAN for my time abroad. They made everything so easy and amazing. I also loved being able to go see the DMZ as well as other events they hosted for us. They really made my time there count and I want to return again someday. They are the best people to go with for undergraduate students 100%.

The best semester on the Gold Coast with TEAN

December 12, 2020by: Layla Hindiyeh - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

TEAN was the best decision that I made while choosing to study abroad. This program helped me through the study abroad process every step of the way. They sent FAQ's every step of the way and had open lines of communication at all times. The first week in Australia this program set up and "introductory week" where we had fun excursions and learned more about the Australian culture. This included scuba diving in the Great Barrier Reef and a dinner learning about the Aboriginal culture. The program had fun activities throughout the semester that I was have not sought out by myself. I loved learning to surf and the fun dinners that were planned. We had mentors that were available whenever we needed assistance and helped us adapt to our host country. I met so many great people through this program that I consider best friends today. I also loved this programs sustainability initiatives!

Best 5 weeks of my life !

November 24, 2020by: Kendall Scholl - United States

Program: Intern Abroad in Australia with WorldStrides

5

Despite being sent home due to COVID-19, this experience was one of the best. I got to study and intern in what I think is one of the most beautiful places in the world. Perth is a wonderful place to study abroad because the culture is fun, weather is great, and professional networking is similar to the US. I got to intern for an Aussie Rules Football team where I was a sports trainer. I learned a lot of hands-on skills and gained a lot of clinical experience. TEAN was a great program to work with because they make sure you are all set before you leave your home country, they get you set up once you are there and are available for support whenever you need it when you are in the host country, and they make departure a breeze also. TEAN sets you up for nothing but success.

Best experience of my life!!

November 18, 2020by: sydney degiacomo - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Sydney, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad was far and away the best experience I ever had. I am the type of person who needs to know every detail about something before I feel comfortable doing it, and TEAN went above and beyond to make sure all of my questions were answered. I was a bit nervous going in and not knowing anyone but once I got to orientation I made some of my best, and forever friends. Studying abroad made me go outside of my comfort zone and do things I never would have ordinarily done. The programs organized through TEAN taught me so much about the culture and really bonded me with the other students on the program as well. Learning to take control of my finances, my health, grocery shopping and my studies really overwhelmed me at first, but by the end of abroad I can confidently say I learned all of that and so much more. Immersing myself in the culture and becoming friends with locals really showed me a different side of Sydney that I would not have otherwise seen. I loved being abroad so much that I transferred to study full time at UNSW, and I owe that all to TEAN! <3 thank you for the best and most unforgettable experience!!!

Sydney opera house

Study in Welly!

November 16, 2020by: Pete Tsipis - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Wellington, New Zealand

5

Studying abroad in Wellington was one of the best decisions I've ever made. The city is beautiful, the people are super friendly, and Vic is an amazing school to study at. Personally, I'm really into exploring different cafes and Wellington is full of them. No matter where you are in the city, you will be within walking distance of a good latte and pastry. I'm also a really big sports fan and Wellington is home to two really fun teams to watch. The Hurricanes (Rugby) and the Phoenix (soccer) both have discounted student tickets and are a great way to meet new people so if you're into sports Wellington is a great city to be in. TEAN did such an amazing job organizing the program and they will always be there if you need them. The program's orientation is in Queenstown and it was a life changing experience for me. Getting to spend a week in one of the most beautiful places on earth was an amazing way to start my experience abroad.

The coffee really is better!

November 09, 2020by: Madison Walker - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Melbourne, Australia with WorldStrides

5

To explain my title, before arriving in Melbourne, I wasn't a huge fan of coffee. But the my program advisor from TEAN told me I had to try the coffee in Melbourne because American coffee is actually not very good. So I did! And then immediately became a coffee addict! This is about how the entire semester went. I honestly cannot find a bad thing to say about Melbourne. The people were friendly and I know I am going to remain friends with them for years to come. The TEAN staff was also very knowledgeable about all things Australia and made sure we knew the best spots to go for something as simple as a coffee. I am so happy I chose TEAN and recommend it for anyone thinking about studying abroad

Living like a Local

November 09, 2020by: Madison Walker - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

This was my second semester abroad in Australia. Even on my second time around, TEAN was beyond helpful and helped me figure out tips and tricks for my new location. The friends I've made over the past semester (both local and international) are people that I know I will be talking to for many years to come. Even with COVID hitting right at the beginning of the semester, TEAN was on top of things keeping us up to date and letting us know what was going one at all times. I really am glad I decided to go through TEAN, and I am really happy I decided to go through them again for my second semester abroad.

Greatest experience yet!

November 07, 2020by: Brandon Brazao - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

This study abroad experience to the Gold Coast of Australia was definitely one of my greatest experiences I've had. TEAN was super helpful and was able to help me make dreams of traveling to Australia possible. The administration and advisors were very helpful in making my experience mine. Griffith University is a very diverse and welcoming campus that hosts people from all over the world. I was able to meet some of my Australian mates there and they are people that I still stay in touch with today. The overall vibe of the Gold Coast was very welcoming and relaxing. Everyone that I had run into would want to strike a conversation and get to know me more. I was able to branch out and learn more about myself and a new culture that I had always wanted to see for myself. I truly believe that there is no better place to study abroad at due to how happy and welcoming everyone is.

TEAN: Korea University was the best semesters of my college experience!

November 05, 2020by: Sonja Waitkus - United States

Program: Study Abroad at Korea University with WorldStrides

5

My entire experience abroad was amazing. The TEAN program really went above and beyond with the orientation, the semester excursions, and the support while I was over there. I felt like I was in great hands being a part of their program, and was able to see and experience so many different things. I learned so much about Korea and Korean culture, and my whole experience really helped me mature and come out of my shell. The academics at KU were incredible, considering it is one of the top universities in Korea, and I was really able to get a lot out of my academic classes in addition to learning so much about Korean culture. It was absolutely worthwhile, and I would do it again in a heartbeat.

The best semester abroad in Korea!!

November 04, 2020by: Myani Grey - United States

Program: Study Abroad at Korea University with WorldStrides

4

I had the best study abroad experience in Korea with the TEAN-Korea University program. I enjoyed going on the excursions and the lunch/ dinners planned by TEAN. My favorite trips were the temple stay at Jeondeungsa Temple and going to Busan. Even though it rained a lot during our time in Busan I made the most of it with my best friend in the program. The food was delicious. Korean barbeque is so good and the atmosphere is great. In Korea, it is pretty safe at night. So, a friend and I would like to go for late-night walks or just sit outside really late to people watch.

The best decision I've made!

November 03, 2020by: Haley Brennan - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Townsville, Australia with WorldStrides

4

If I were to study abroad for a second time, I would absolutely do it through TEAN again! They were extremely kind and helpful throughout the entire process, from the application to orientation to my return home. TEAN’s orientation in Cairns was both fun and informative as we learned about aspects of daily Australian culture, such as slang, that we would likely be confused by otherwise. They also planned activities throughout the week that were incredible, such as a cultural dinner, an excursion to the Great Barrier Reef, and a trip to get up close and personal with crocodiles, wallabies, and koalas. Orientation was key in helping study abroad students find people who were going to the same school and start making friends. Once in Townsville, TEAN put us in contact with their resident director, who gave us a tour of the campus, planned outings, and was easy to touch base with whenever we had questions. The James Cook University campus was beautiful, with tropical plants and unique Australian wildlife everywhere. Everyone on campus and in the community was very nice and welcoming to international students. When we had to return to the United States early because of the Covid-19 pandemic, TEAN was extremely helpful and easy to communicate with. Thank you TEAN for a great study abroad experience!

Literally best experience possible!

November 03, 2020by: Daniel Korotkin - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Auckland, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

TEAN Abroad made going abroad to the other side of the world incredibly comfortable and easy! Everything from pre-departure planning to cultural immersion in your host city is made easier by TEAN Abroad. The mix of academics and amazing experiences that TEAN abroad helps you experience is unmatched by anyone. Definitely choose TEAN for your abroad experience!!!

Greatest time of my life!

October 26, 2020by: bbrazao - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Traveling to the Gold Coast of Australia was truly a remarkable experience. I have always been a traveler but the opportunity to live a semester in a different country was the icing on the cake for me. This opportunity really gave me a new perspective on life and helped show me the different lifestyles that people live in these other countries. The classes offered by Griffith University were great and helped with my major and were able to be applied to my home university. My professors were great and from all over the world, they were able to give me more insight on my degree as well. Overall you will not be disappointed in your decision in coming to Australia for your study abroad experience!

If I could do it again, I would!

October 26, 2020by: Emma Newman - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Wellington, New Zealand

5

If you're going to study abroad in New Zealand, do it through TEAN. They provide multiple opportunities to make the most out of your time abroad: orientation in Queenstown, mid-semester excursions, and several cultural events in your host city. They also provide an abundance of support from start to finish. Preparing to study abroad can be overwhelming, but TEAN's website guides you through the process in six easy steps, and they also provide a checklist for documents to submit. Although I would've preferred not to have the virus affect my time abroad at all, it did show how capable TEAN is: I felt like I could trust TEAN when I was deciding on whether to go home or not. They made it clear that they would support students whatever their decision was. Studying abroad with TEAN means unique opportunities and continuous support.

An amazing experience

October 26, 2020by: Jacques de Carbonnieres - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Sydney, Australia with WorldStrides

5

This TEAN abroad program was absolutely outstanding. I went to New Zealand with a group of 30 people from TEAN before we arrived in Australia and had an unbelievable time. Everything was run very smoothly and it was a great way to meet people before getting to Sydney. TEAN did a great job with that trip, and the orientation experience at the Great Barrier Reef. The TEAN staff did a wonderful job in getting everyone acclimated and dealing with the logistics and little things, giving us more time to enjoy Australia. This was most definitely a trip of a lifetime and I highly suggest anyone whose interested in studying abroad to choose TEAN (and do the pre trip excursion!! Great great way to meet people).

My global remote internship and my personal creative project

October 25, 2020by: Troy'nia Douglas - St. Kitts and Nevis

Program: Intern Abroad in Australia with WorldStrides

4

TEAN’s programs always stand out to me, I feel like they try their best to accommodate a student’s needs to the best of their ability. Just overall, very understanding and dedicated to a student’s safety, personal and professional development as well as their interests. I say this because, throughout the course of my global remote internship, I organized and hosted a virtual conference which was classified as my own creative project where I interned for a very prominent NGO known as Teaching North Korean Refugees (TNKR) based in Seoul, South Korea. Where the project I created was a virtual conference centered around spreading awareness about female North Korean refugees and fundraising for TNKR’s new program designed to provide refugee women with the opportunity to gain work experience, a stipend, and adequate health insurance.

The Lives of North Korean Women Virtual Conference Flyer

The best remote expirience

October 21, 2020by: Paula Morales - Colombia

Program: Intern Abroad in Australia with WorldStrides

5

During the 4 week global remote internship I was placed with an Australian company, Aspect Studios, I along with 3 other team members worked on a market research project. I would not trade this experience for anything as I was able to gain real world experience in my field without the financial burdens that come with traveling.

Spring 2020 Valencia!

October 20, 2020by: Becca West - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Valencia, Spain with WorldStrides

5

This year has obviously been a rollercoaster for all of us, but the way ISA handled my study abroad experience during this uncertain time was very professional and gave me the best experience of my life. I had so much fun being immersed into the culture in Spain! I was able to visit other cities in Spain during my time abroad, but by the end I called Valencia my home away from home!

The best decision I've ever made!!

October 18, 2020by: Rachel Fryefield - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Sydney, Australia with WorldStrides

5

I am so grateful that I chose to study abroad with TEAN! Navigating studying abroad and all that comes with it can be an extremely stressful process, but with TEAN that was not the case. I felt prepared, organized, and supported from before I even chose a program to when I returned home, thanks to TEAN. I didn't need to worry about figuring out which visa to get or finding roommates I felt comfortable with. Through orientation and other programming that TEAN organized, I felt connected to my peers and ready to conquer a new country the second I got there. I made lifelong friends, countless memories, and gained a newfound confidence and independence throughout my time abroad. I have nothing but good things to say about TEAN and would recommend anyone studying abroad goes with them!

Forever thankful for TEAN and SMU!

October 16, 2020by: Emmala Alfaro - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Singapore with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad in Singapore with TEAN was one of the best decisions I have ever made. Before classes began, we had a week of orientation with TEAN where we got a tour of the city, ate delicious food, and got all of our registration complete for school. TEAN made what can be a challenging transition very smooth. I loved everything about Singapore from the food, the people, to the plethora of activities to do. One of the highlights of my time abroad was going on one of the TEAN excursions to Sentosa Island with everyone in my program. Another perk of going to Singapore was that travel to other countries in the Southeast Asian region was so easy! I would recommend TEAN + Singapore to just about anyone!! Incredible program that will leave you with memories and stories for a lifetime!

Downtown SingaporeChiang Mai, ThailandJava, Indonesia

An experience I'll cherish for the rest of my life!

October 16, 2020by: Cooper Woolford - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Sydney, Australia with WorldStrides

5

The educational experience that I received at the University of New South Wales in Sydney, Australia was absolutely incredible. Being a neurobiology and psychology double major at my home institution (UW-Madison) I was unsure whether or not study abroad would be possible for fear that relevant science-based courses would not be offered. I ended up enrolling in a course on psychobiology of memory and motivation and two humanities based literature and writing courses. In regards to advising and planning, The Education Abroad Network Administration team was constantly available for me when I had questions about planning and organizing my academic interests, travel interests and making sure that I had all relevant documents and payments fulfilled. TEAN ensured that there were constant efforts to maintain a safe atmosphere throughout our entire time abroad. Safety protocols were specifically outlined in the orientation as well as a study abroad safety course that I was required to take through my home institution (UW-Madison). While studying abroad I felt well integrated with the local communities and culture in Australia. The people could not have been nicer frankly. My American friends and I noted that politeness and friendliness in general are two qualities that are priorities for Australians. I had very enriching conversations with Uber drivers (who I believe in America can be a little standoffish at times. Students at the university and locals I would encounter while at beaches, restaurants and sightseeing spots were very friendly as well and willing to get to know me and help me out with any inquiries that I had. I learned a lot about my willingness to jump into deep waters (literally and figuratively). I challenged myself, I tried new foods, I made lifelong friends, and I learned what it means to represent your culture while learning about one different than your own. I’m so proud of myself for sticking with the decision to study abroad and making it work with my academic career.

Studying abroad with TEAN was the best decision I ever made!

October 14, 2020by: Kerry Shanahan - United States

Program: Study Abroad at University of Sydney with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad with TEAN was one of the best experiences I have ever had. The orientation went above and beyond to make me feel comfortable in a country halfway across the world, the staff was friendly and very welcoming and the city of Sydney had so many opportunities to take advantage of. While living and studying in a new country I gained a newfound sense of independence and confidence in myself. The friendships I made through TEAN have followed me back to the US and the unique experiences of seeing the Great Barrier Reef, Blue Mountains, and the Great Ocean Road will stay with me forever. I had never left the country before this adventure and because of my experience with TEAN I am excitedly looking forward to my next one!

An unforgettable, life-changing experience!

September 24, 2020by: Alayna O'Keefe - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Florence, Italy with WorldStrides

5

My study abroad experience was hands-down my favorite and most rewarding semester I had while in college. The mini weekend or day excursions around Italy included in the program were a great way to expose students to regions all over Italy. The excursions also included educational and fun tours and made the trips that much more enjoyable. ISA also offered cultural lessons, such as tours around the cities or cooking classes! I am very grateful for the ISA staff as they were always understanding, kind and available whenever my roommates or I needed them. The friendly and hospitable nature of the staff made it an easy transition living abroad on my own for a few months. While I thoroughly enjoyed my days and trips around Italy and other countries in Europe, I would say my favorite experience abroad was volunteering to teach English at a local primary school. ISA works with a few local primary schools around Florence to send study abroad students to help teach English- an opportunity I immediately jumped on. I loved the idea of immersing myself in the Italian culture by teaching at a local school, and it is always my favorite memory to talk about. Highly recommend this program and to take advantage of everything ISA has to offer. This program inspired me to want to work in the study abroad industry and to be able to provide an amazing experience for students, just like I had received.

View from Piazzale Michelangelo, Florence

Living among the Gods and Goddesses

August 12, 2020by: Erica Mittenzwei - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Athens, Greece with WorldStrides

5

My semester in Athens, Greece was the best time of my life. It is a beautiful country that has everything you could imagine, from the snow covered mountains, to the sandy beaches, to the bustling city, and ancient ruins around every corner. My favorite thing to learn about in history class was always the Greek gods and goddesses, so visiting their ancient temples was like an out of world experience for me. My ISA advisors were some of the kindest people I know and made a real effort to expose the students to their culture. The food was incredible and I could probably eat gyros for the rest of my life. My classes was a great mix of American and Greek students, where we could often debate about our ways of life. The thing I will value the most is the lifelong friendships that I have made. I still talk to my friends often and meeting them gives me a new excuse to travel more often to see them.

Erica Mittenzwei video

Incredible experience!

August 08, 2020by: Paloma Parker - United States

Program: Study Abroad in San Jose, Costa Rica with WorldStrides

5

I absolutely loved my time abroad. ISA did such a great job of being there for us, but also giving us freedom to explore and do what we wanted! It was so helpful to have all the resources and community that they provided. 10/10 would recommend studying abroad in San Jose with ISA!!

Best decision I've made in college

June 14, 2020by: Jennifer Marinov - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Sydney, Australia with WorldStrides

5

My time abroad was very fulfilling and thrilling. I learned so much about the culture and history of Australia and TEAN played a major role in that discovery. The staff were all incredibly helpful and contacted us frequently before and during our trip. We had the opportunity to go on extra excursions throughout the semester from touring the Opera House to surfing on Bondi Beach. Additionally, I had the chance of a life time to take a weekend trip to Melbourne and a week trip to Fiji before my semester. The TEAN staff were incredible there as well. UNSW was an amazing university and I miss it every day. I highly recommend this trip and all the added benefits.

Better than I could have ever imagined!

May 31, 2020by: Jenna K - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Dunedin, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

Living in New Zealand for a semester was one of the best decisions I've ever made. I met friends that I will have for a lifetime and left a bit of myself in that beautiful country. Before going, though, I was definitely a bit nervous as I contemplated all of the unknowns. TEAN made the entire process manageable and their staff was so much more helpful than I ever could have imagined. From advising me on which university to go to, to helping me get classes pre-approved, to answering all of my other questions, the TEAN staff was so kind and patient with me. They responded to my emails very quickly and gave me many useful resources and advice. Upon getting to New Zealand, TEAN staff met me right in the airport and brought myself and some other TEAN students to our hostel. I could tell that they cared about us and wanted us to have the best experience possible. Their enthusiasm was contagious. The TEAN staff periodically checked up on us throughout the semester and asked all about what we were doing, what we were learning, and what we were going through. They were so kind and available! I felt as if I could go to the staff in my host city with any problems and they would help me through it.

Wish I could go back!

April 07, 2020by: Stephanie Boice - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Shanghai, China with WorldStrides

5

From the moment that I applied to the minute I stepped foot of the plane in Shanghai TEAN had always been there to support me with any questions or concerns that I may have had pre-departure. Since I didn't live close to an Embassy they helped me with applying for my China Visa before I left. The on-staff team is always there for you, from the program director to the local students that you may live with if you choose to live off campus whether it be help enrolling into a class or advice on where to go in Shanghai. During our time we were given a lot of cultural immersion opportunities provided through the program free of charge such as a trip to Chengdu and Beijing and various local experiences within the city. Throughout my time I was able to gain a true insight into how it is like to be a student in China. I was able to make a lot of lifetime friends because of this program and I wish I could go back and start over again!

Gold Coast and good times

April 03, 2020by: Abby Mathai - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

The TEAN program brought me experiences I never thought of, in a country I never traveled to before. They provided me the best kind of support that allowed me to explore on my own, travel extensively and see the world through so many different people's eyes. I learned the value of exploring on your own and taking risks to experience more of the world. Definitely worth it and I would do it again in a heartbeat. Bond University was beautiful, the classes were interesting and not a burden at all. All my teachers were super experienced and willing to help by any means possible. Gold Coast was the perfect blend of a city - there were always events going on, public transport was easy to access, and the beaches were beautiful!

Beach

Best decision ever!

April 01, 2020by: Katie Lagana - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Thank you TEAN for giving me the experience of a lifetime! Four months after my study abroad I still think about Australia every single day. I dream about my daily beach walks and swimming in the aqua waters. Pretend that my drip coffee is as good as their lattes and make my own smashed avocado toast and wonder what they do different. I text my abroad friends daily and we reminisce on the good ole days. Somehow all the trips, beach days, classes, and movie nights in the apartment helped me develop into a more independent and open-minded person. None of this would’ve been possible without TEAN. They made helped every step of the way starting with helping find us deals on flights, organizing an orientation where we spent a couple days meeting everyone in the program, setting up the best housing, and even having fun events throughout the semester before helping us get back home. I have struggled to find a critique for TEAN but my only complaint is that I am graduating and can’t do it again!

Best experience of my life!

April 01, 2020by: Lauren Knott - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Dunedin, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

I must start by saying that my time abroad in New Zealand was absolutely the best experience of my life. I traveled all around the country, made some of my best friends ever, and had incredible outdoor experience (walking on a glacier, surfing, canyoning, etc.) I stayed there for the full 6 months that my student visa allowed me to, and I am so grateful to have gone through TEAN's program. TEAN was absolutely amazing. They were always just a quick email or phone call away if I needed anything. My university did not have any courses pre-approved for the University of Otago, but TEAN helped me immensely throughout this pre-approval process. Additionally, I was very unsure about what university I wanted to study abroad at in New Zealand. I switched around three times before settling on the University of Otago! TEAN was so incredibly flexible and understanding and helped me ultimately decide on Otago (which was undoubtedly the right choice for me). The TEAN representatives at the University of Otago were also outstanding. They were Kiwis (from New Zealand), and were a great resource for any questions about Kiwi culture, recommendations for travel, food, or just about anything! They went above and beyond to plan fun outings for their TEAN students. What I really appreciated was that they were there if we needed them, but they also let us explore and have our own individual experiences. Planned events were frequent enough to keep in touch and check in, but spaced out enough to let us explore on our own. I really can't say enough good things about how TEAN takes care of its students while they are abroad, while still allowing them to be independent with their experience. Thank you TEAN!!

A group of people in Queenstown NZ at the Skyline

Amazing experience

March 17, 2020by: Allison Miller - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Dunedin, New Zealand with WorldStrides

4

TEAN was an amazing program to go to an amazing country with. They supported me from pre-departure to arrival and all the way through the semester. If I ever had a question, there were plenty of people to ask that would get me the right answer. Dunedin itself was a dream. I never thought I was one to enjoy the ocean, but I miss having it 15 minutes away. The mountains were a little more of a drive, but the drive never felt long because of all of the beauty along them. If you wanted a night out, the Octagon had plenty going on. I've been home a few months and already have a list of things to do when I go back. It's impossible to do everything.

The best decision of my life!

March 14, 2020by: Lucy Almberg - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Brisbane, Australia with WorldStrides

5

My study abroad experience began with TEAN orientation in Cairns and included a boat trip to the Great Barrier Reef, going to Hartley's Crocodile Zoo to see lots of crocodiles, kangaroos, and koalas, and skydiving. This was an awesome opportunity to embrace Australian culture as well as meet other students who were also going to be studying abroad at schools in Australia during the same semester as me. Once I was settled in Brisbane, our TEAN advisor was very helpful with seeing if we needed anything and making sure we were adjusting to this new atmoshpere. I loved all my classes at the University of Queensland and there were so many different opportunities to get invovled and join clubs such as the surfers club! TEAN was always helpful throughout the process of selecting schools and deciding which school in Australia I wanted to study at. We also had scheduled events such as going to the Steve Irwin Australia Zoo and going to footy games that were coordinated by our TEAN advisor in Brisbane. I would highly recommend this program and would definitely say it was the best 5 months of my life and such an amazing experience!!

Best three weeks!!

March 13, 2020by: Meghan White - United States

Program: Study Abroad at Korea University with WorldStrides

5

This program is one of the best short term winter programs I have done. Korea University has a beautiful campus and great facilities. The professors were also amazing. I was able to take a class accredited for my major (Communication major) and have the chance to learn and then participate in Korean culture. I got an insight into Korean popular culture and how it is influential worldwide. I understand now. It is worthwhile to see the love for Korean culture (kdrams, kpop, Korean health and beauty products) and where it comes from. The Education Abroad Network (TEAN) also was very supportive. They provided support pre-departure and in-country. Before departing, there was a pre-departure orientation where we got to hear about the logistics upon arrival and during the program. We had a welcome and farewell dinner from TEAN. Also, in-country, the resident director was amazing. They gave great recommendations and were always responsive through Kakao Talk (Korea's messaging app). TEAN also had cultural activities as part of the program. We had a movie night were we ate Korean pizza and watched a Korean movie. There was a day where we went to the DMZ and Korean War memorial museum. I felt very supported by TEAN and my home university when going abroad. Overall, it was a wonderful experience thanks to TEAN and my university for making it happen! I would go back and do it all over again.

KU graduatesLocal streets and stores

Seoul, the city of possibilities

February 09, 2020by: Ana Camargo - United States

Program: Study Abroad at Korea University with WorldStrides

4

During the Summer, the Korea University campus is full of greenery. The campus architecture makes the University look like a modern-day castle. In the Summer, the temperature is scorching, and the sky is mostly sunny. Located in the campus underground area, there is KU study rooms, a Morning Glory (stationary store), a CU (convenience store), cafes and restaurants, a cafeteria, and KU Optical. While classes were in session, I got to connect with knowledgeable professors in their field and learn in a small class setting, which facilitated the learning process. Professors hold office hours in addition to teaching classes, which are very useful. If you take third to fourth-year level classes, it will be difficult, but I learned great study habits during my time abroad. I loved the food in my location. Honestly, Anam (where Korea University is located) has the best meal options in Seoul -from Korean-Italian fusion food to Indian to amazing Korean fried chicken. There are restaurants on top of restaurants. There are so many restaurants down the main street and sides that it is impossible to get tired of your options. All of the food is completely affordable since it is meant to cater towards Korean college students. Additionally, if you head out in the nights to Myeongdong, the streets are littered with street food stalls. My friends and I would head out to Myeongdong once a week and spend the night hopping from stall to stall, eating food from different vendors while talking. My study abroad experience in Seoul, South Korea was phenomenal. From animal cafes to nightlife the city of Seoul has a lot of extraordinary events. During my time in Seoul, I got to step out of my comfort zone and learn while living in a completely different culture. Each week Korea University hosted cultural events to immerse students into new and fun experiences. From the first to last day in Seoul, TEAN staff were always there and ready to help whenever. TEAN hosted its own orientation of Anam and Korea University before our official KUISC orientation, which I found more efficient and helpful than the one provided by the university. During orientation, TEAN gave us T-Money cards for the metro, which were godsend to our time studying abroad in South Korea. During the course of KUISC, I made amazing friends that I cannot picture my life without now.

Wouldn't change a thing

January 26, 2020by: Sarah Shafer - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Auckland, New Zealand with WorldStrides

4

I wouldn't change anything about my experience studying abroad in Auckland. Growing up in a small, rural town, I was worried I would be overwhelmed by the big city, but everyone I met made me feel so welcomed and I never felt unsafe. Auckland definitely isn't for everyone if you want to be more consistently immersed in New Zealand's stunning countryside, but getting out of the city rush is very easy and the entire Auckland region and surrounding regions are full of natural beauty. The public transportation within the city is great and there are plenty of affordable bus charters that will take you around the whole north island, and getting to the south island is only a 1-2 hour flight. ISA also provides excellent cultural experiences to help students adjust to the New Zealand lifestyle, as well as fantastic weekend trips throughout the semester. Highly recommend this program.

Such an amazing city that feels like home!

January 24, 2020by: Allison Johnson - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Salamanca, Spain with WorldStrides

5

Deciding to study abroad in Salamanca was easily the best decision I've ever made. The city itself is so beautiful and lively at all hours of the day, especially in the Plaza Mayor where you can sit for hours at a cafe and not be disturbed. The cost of living was very fair and made it easy to spend time eating or walking around the city. The ISA staff in Salamanca were so kind and accommodating! They arranged fun activities each week and made their office a great resource for us to either pop in to ask questions or talk, hang out or print travel itinerary.

Incredible location, great on-site staff, amazing experience!!

January 19, 2020by: Stella Roth - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Buenos Aires, Argentina with WorldStrides

5

This ISA program is absolutely incredible. Buenos Aires, Argentina is a wonderful city to study abroad. It is a city that is full of fun cultural events, opportunities to learn Spanish, and there are countless beautiful places to travel. The ISA staff both in Buenos Aires and in their main office are incredible helpful and make sure you feel supported before, during, and after your program. I highly recommend going on this program!

My heart is in Morocco

January 08, 2020by: Nadine El Maalem - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Meknes, Morocco with WorldStrides

5

My time in Morocco was simply invaluable in every single way. Not only is the pre-departure process with ISA thoroughly, informative, and truly user-friendly and sufficient, but upon getting to Morocco, I soon learned why study abroad is such an important aspect of one's college experience. The program was excellent, as I took amazing classes with some of the best Moroccan professors from the local university who had first-hand knowledge of the material we studied, and I excelled in my Arabic classes, gaining a year's worth of Modern Standard Arabic in only three month's time! The excursions were eye-opening and were a blast, and the Meknes on-site team were truly like family - I miss Younes, Iman, and Oussama even now (best program guides EVER!) Cultural activities were nothing less than a blast and nothing less than educational. I'm currently looking for ways to go back! Hands-down, the most important experience in my life - my heart is in Morocco! (FYI - Best sunsets in the world!)

Sunset  in Meknes

Best study abroad program experience ever!

December 16, 2019by: J L - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Tokyo, Japan

5

Before even arriving in Tokyo, the ISA advisors contacted me to make sure all of my questions were answered and eased any worries I had about traveling to a foreign country by myself for the first time. When I arrived, the room amenities were exactly as described and I enjoyed having a balcony which allows a lot of sunlight into the room! Also the dorm is about two minutes away from the free shuttle bus to school and to the train station! As far as the program activities and excursions go, I couldn’t have asked for a better program advisor! They went beyond my expectations by answering any questions I had (especially by giving reminders of completing important documents),and making sure my group had a great time in Japan! I will never forget this experience and the friends that I have made through it!

Join clubs, make friends

December 15, 2019by: Cassidy Yates - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Newcastle, Australia with WorldStrides

5

The Education Abroad Network made preparing to study abroad easy! They were always just an email or phone call away before and during my semester abroad. At the University of Newcastle I joined two student organizations that really defined my experience and made it unforgettable. In the Newcastle University Mountaineering Club I met a bunch of really cool Australians that were welcoming and willing to teach others. The University of Newcastle Exchange Student Network was great for meeting students from Australia and all over the world.

Experience of a lifetime

December 14, 2019by: Carlyn Kranking - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Perth, Australia with WorldStrides

5

In just three weeks, we were able to do and see so much in Australia! From Byron Bay to Sydney to the Blue Mountains to the Daintree Rainforest to Cairns to the Great Barrier Reef (!), every part of the trip was thrilling, and I learned so much about conservation and ecology in Australia. I'll never forget hiking in the Blue Mountains or snorkeling on the Great Barrier Reef. But we learned about more than just conservation: In Byron Bay, we took a walking tour with an Aboriginal guide and learned about Aboriginal culture and history in Australia. We read about the history of the Australian continent and had a lesson on coral reefs. And the class pushed us outside our comfort zones – I learned how to surf! I arrived nervous about going to a new country without knowing anyone else on the trip, and I left wishing that we'd had more time there!

Person sitting on a cliff

Change of pace

December 07, 2019by: Bianca Kinder - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Paris, France with WorldStrides

4

If you are trying to decide which studying abroad program to use definitely use ISA. They plan many cultural and transitional excursions and activities while you are in Paris, which I found beneficial! If you are trying to decide which city to study in go to Paris, I think you will be surprised with this city. Paris is not a big “busy” city like New York. Everybody is much more relaxed and moves at a slower place which makes it much less intimidating. All of the little neighborhoods within the city are very charming and quaint. Additionally, it’s a very good city to leave from to travel to other places because Charles de Gaulle Airport is so big. Overall I would definitely recommend using ISA Paris! You will be amazed with how welcoming they are and how amazing France is!

Monet’s garden and house, Giverny

A great way to explore a new country

December 07, 2019by: Breaun Lawrence - United States

Program: Study Abroad at Korea University with WorldStrides

5

Attending Korea University over summer was probably one of the best Summer Sessions I have had before. From the free weekend trips and cultural activities, to group dinner and amusement park excursions; Attending Tean's summer in Seoul program is something I would recommend to anyone interested in Korea. Honestly,Summer school was never this fun. I never got to go to summer camps when I was a kid but this made up for all of those lost experiences! I was able to make so many new friends from around the world, and exploring a country I'd been interested in for years; all while getting credits toward graduation! All of the Tean staff were super nice and helpful and made the entire experience feel simple and easy. Knowing that they would be available for me to come to with any questions or difficulty that I was having made me feel a lot more comfortable in my new setting. Sandy (the on the ground staff member) was especially great, she responded to all my silly questions and really helped us whenever we couldn't pronounce the dishes they we wanted to order at restaurants. Interesting classes, delicious food and good company; I'm not sure what else I could have asked for from a Study abroad program.

Best six months exploring the wilderness of the South Island

December 04, 2019by: Sarah Grace Payne - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Dunedin, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad in New Zealand through TEAN (The Education Abroad Network) was hands-down one of the best academic decisions thus far. As an outdoorsy person, Dunedin was a perfect match. Almost everyone at the university loves exploring which makes it super easy to find an adventure to a nearby glacier, mountain, or beach most weekends. On top of that, having an American-Kiwi transplant residential advisor nearby at all times made my semester 110% better. My TEAN RA was like a supportive aunt for all of us; she was always there to get a meal or talk if we needed a hug or any advice but wanted us to have our own adventures separate from the other American students we came over with. I couldn't have asked for a better semester abroad experience.

Best summer experience

November 18, 2019by: Michael Slagle - United States

Program: Intern Abroad in Australia with WorldStrides

5

I have had the privilege of study abroad (2018) and interning abroad (2019) with TEAN. The experiences that I have had with them have been a dream come true. From the start, the application to both programs were easy to understand; any questions that I had while doing them were answered quickly by the friendly and supportive staff. The first few weeks of both experiences began with an incredible orientation: fun activities, time to meet new people and of course learning the culture of the country. After orientation, the studying and interning began. I quickly grew to love the cities that I was living in; the support of TEAN staff made sure that I new all the ins and outs to make sure that I was having the best experience. I must admit, TEAN made it hard to say goodbye and head home; why would someone want to leave a paradise experience? If you are looking for a program to study or intern abroad, TEAN will be the one for you.

Australia, my second home

November 11, 2019by: Ashley Goveia - United States

Program: Study Abroad at University of Sydney with WorldStrides

5

Every day I miss Australia and the people I have met there more and more. It is crazy to imagine that just a few months ago I was traveling around the world and making friendships that will last me a lifetime. Within 131 days I learned so much about different cultures, work-life in other countries, and most importantly myself. I cannot thank the TEAN staff enough for making this entire trip possible for me. After multiple calls with staff members talking about the logistics of the program and what was right for me, I ended up making the best decision of my life. That is all thanks to the help of the TEAN staff. I watched myself adapt to my surroundings abroad and ultimately I found the best version of myself while I was there. The education I received at the University of Sydney was challenging but I could not have seen me study anywhere else. I hope sometime in the near future I can come back to Sydney to work, but as of right now I am so grateful I made the decision to study abroad in Australia. For anyone considering to study abroad here, go through the Education Abroad Network TEAN!

Wellington was a dream

November 01, 2019by: Kendall Spreen - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Wellington, New Zealand

5

The entire experience feels like it was a dream. TEAN gave me the opportunity to live in the coolest city and introduced some of the most genuine people I have ever met. The staff at VIC were incredibly accommodating and you could see how much they enjoyed working with the students. Each house in University Hall was unique which just added to the charm of Wellington. I could not recommend this program enough. I felt entirely connected to this program that, even leaving for weekend trips I would always have Wellington in the back of my mind.

South IslandTwo people lying on the ground

Best semester ever

October 30, 2019by: Sophia Armstrong - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Sydney, Australia with WorldStrides

5

I absolutely loved going abroad with TEAN. They were available every step of the way to make sure I got all the information I needed and more! They helped me choose a program, pick housing, enroll in classes, and any helped with any documentation I needed for the country and school. TEAN allowed me to make friends before starting class, making the transition easier. I could see some of these friends becoming life long friends. I am so happy with my experience with TEAN and anyone thinking about going abroad should choose TEAN.

A wonderful experience in a beautiful country

October 22, 2019by: Brian Gage - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Dunedin, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad in New Zealand was the best choice I made during my college career. I was able to explore the majority of both of the country's largest islands and see natural beauty unlike anything I had ever seen before. Being based in Dunedin gave me a great deal of flexibility in terms of travelling to some of the foremost hiking locations that the country has to offer. Weekend trips into some of the South Island's National Parks were an integral aspect of my time spent in New Zealand. I visited Abel Tasman National Park, Fiordland National Park, Mt. Aspiring National Park, Mt. Cook, The Lakes District and several other ridiculously beautiful regions. TEAN was a massive help in preparing me to move abroad as well as settling in once I got there. I wouldn't change anything about how they handled the process and would absolutely recommend their services to any potential future students.

At the top of Roy's Peak outside of Wanaka

TEAN: The source of lifelong friendships

October 17, 2019by: Olivia Hamilton - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Wellington, New Zealand

5

My experience with TEAN was extremely helpful and supportive. The people I met in the program became some of my best friends. The TEAN orientation for New Zealand, which brought together students from all of the New Zealand universities, was a huge highlight for me and gave me access to locations throughout New Zealand. Meeting people from all of the New Zealand universities gave me friends to stay with across New Zealand, and I ended up exploring the country with close friends I made there. Once we were moved in at our universities, TEAN was very good at being supportive to us and provided several memorable outings. The outings were really fun and allowed me to do activities and see places that I wouldn’t have seen otherwise. Overall, the TEAN staff and fellow students in my program were crucial to my wonderful experience abroad in New Zealand.

Fjordland fieldsMount cook bridgeNelson lakes

Best semester of my life!!

October 16, 2019by: Lee Amanda - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Sydney, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad in Sydney was one of the best decisions of my life! There is so much to do in the city from exploring many beaches to trying many different amazing restaurants to cultural activities like seeing a show at the iconic Sydney Opera House. TEAN was an incredible program provider that offered other cultural excursions such as surfing lessons at Bondi Beach, touring the Sydney Opera House, a weekend trip to Melbourne, and a 10 day trip to New Zealand before the program started! They were great experiences because everything was planned out very well. The staff is extremely helpful whenever you have any issues or concerns! When my flight was delayed for a few days, the staff worked tirelessly to help me navigate the situation and figure out logistics while running their orientation program at the same time! I am incredibly thankful for all of their hard work, which made me feel more comfortable abroad. Additionally, I really enjoyed UNSW! The professors were interesting and engaging. I was able to meet many locals and make some long lasting friendships with people I still keep in touch with today! Overall, I would highly recommend studying abroad at UNSW, especially through TEAN!!

Amazing experience in Wellington

October 11, 2019by: Jess Holmes - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Wellington, New Zealand

4

I could not have picked a better program for me in choosing to study abroad in Wellington, New Zealand through TEAN. The program administration answered all questions I had beforehand, and was easy to reach once I got there. The city itself had a great mix of urban and rural activities, there was always something to do. I definitely recommend checking out the farmer's market and the local chocolate factory! Victoria University had all the courses I needed for my major and I found the classes to be very interesting. It was easy to get involved through their club fairs and student hub events. I also found the locals as well as the overall culture to be very welcoming.

Would go again in a heartbeat

October 10, 2019by: Isabelle Wheeler - United States

Program: Study Abroad at Korea University with WorldStrides

5

TEAN's Summer in Seoul far surpassed my expectations of studying abroad. I was really nervous about picking the right study abroad program to go on. My university did not offer a study abroad program for South Korea so I had to look at outside programs. I saw TEAN at a study abroad fair one day and after talking with the representative I decided that I wanted to study abroad with TEAN. The application process was very easy to navigate through and if I had any questions, I could reach out to my TEAN advisor. Korea University was amazing. I took two classes over there; Sociology and beginner Korean. Two classes was the perfect amount of workload. My professors were extremely knowledgable and engaging. I never found myself bored in class. For my sociology class it was mixed with study abroad students and actual students from Korea University. It was nice to be able to get to know my Korean classmates. I lived in the Frontier Dorms. The rooms had plenty of storage and were modern. My room reminded me of an Ikea display room. It was clean, new, and compact. Anam was a great neighborhood to be in. There's tons of great restaurants and cafes nearby- most of them inexpensive. The subway is also only a 5 minute walk from campus and the dorms. There's also a lot of great stores within walking distance such as Daiso, Etude House, and endless convenience stores. I'm from Baltimore and I'm used to being very wary when I go out. I never once felt unsafe in Anam or anywhere in Seoul. Sandra who is the in-country TEAN member was so supportive and helpful throughout the entire process. This really is a great study abroad program and I don't have one complaint about it.

The experience of a lifetime!

October 09, 2019by: Clarice Bouvier - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Perth, Australia with WorldStrides

4

I had the experience of a lifetime studying abroad with TEAN in Australia! The staff was so helpful in preparation for the trip, the professors were engaging and really cared about their students, and our field trips helped add to our understanding of the course material. It was so amazing to learn about the different environment and wildlife of Australia in the classroom and then to see it for ourselves out in nature. My favorite part of the trip was learning about the different flora and fauna of the Blue Mountains and then actually hiking and seeing the countryside with my own eyes. I will never forget this experience and all of the friends that I made along the way!

An unforgettable 5 months

October 07, 2019by: Rachel Stone - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Dunedin, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

I studied abroad in Dunedin, New Zealand during the spring semester and I have TEAN to thank for how smooth and stress free my travels were. I felt more than prepared packing up and traveling across the world by myself for 5 months with all the help and support I received from the TEAN staff. I was fortunate enough to make lots of friends during my week long pre-semester orientation in Queenstown which made my transition to a new school that much easier. The program staff was always checking in and treating the group to lunch as a way to catch up and see how everyone was doing. By the end of the semester, we had become a close knit group who were always looking out for one another which made this experience so special.

The Tongariro Alpine Crossing

Best semester ever!

October 07, 2019by: James Piechnik - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

TEAN made my study abroad experience the best it could possibly be. They made the travel and packing process and flawless as it could have been and truly made me feel prepared to fly half way across the world despite not knowing anyone in my program. Thanks to their orientation at the beginning of the semester, I was able to meet people who will be life long friends. If it wasn't for TEAN, I would have never been able to go skydiving or scuba on the Great Barrier reef. They gave me the opportunity to experience things that I would never have been able to if I didn't go abroad. The local food is great and I never felt like I had nothing to do on the weekends. I cannot recommend TEAN and Gold Coast enough!

Absolutely unforgettable

October 07, 2019by: Rachel Zurcher - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Going abroad with TEAN for the semester was one of the best decisions that I made throughout my time in college! The process was really easy and their highly communicative team works with you every step of the way. They were organized and detailed, and made me feel comfortable and confident throughout the whole application process. Upon arriving abroad, they have an orientation program that will help you get accustomed to the culture, meet new friends, and learn everything you need to know about being abroad. Throughout the semester, there are several fun events to hang out with other students and check in with people from the program if you have any concerns. It was a great way to be independent, but still have people looking out for you if you need any help. Being on the Gold Coast was incredible because of the beautiful setting, the perfect balance of city and nature, and the close proximity to an airport for any other travel. Additionally, TEAN provided so many new opportunities such as going to an AFL game, taking surfing lessons, diving on the great barrier reef, seeing crocodiles and kangaroos, and so much more. I would recommend everyone spent time on the Gold Coast with TEAN.

Best decision I ever made

October 06, 2019by: Josh Irving - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

4

My time abroad was amazing and left me speechless. Bond University is such a beautiful campus and living on the Gold Coast is like living in a movie. You are 10 minutes away from multiple beaches, local shops, cool attractions, and almost everything you can think of. Bond has a beautiful campus and has very community feel to it. I couldn't even imagine going abroad if it weren't for how simple and easy TEAN made everything. From the moment I was filling out my application to the moment I arrived on campus TEAN was there helping and assisting me with things I need to get done and everything need for pre departure arrivalTEAN was very supportive and helpful from the application process to the moment I arrived on campus. TEAN was there to support me 100%. I couldn't even imagine going abroad if I didn't go with TEAN they made my experience something I will never forget.

Most amazing place in the world!!

October 06, 2019by: Eliza Wilson - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad in Chiang Mai was easily the best decision I have ever made. The culture in Thailand is unlike any other place in the world and I gained a whole new perspective. I am so happy I chose to study abroad with TEAN because they made the entire experience easy and that much more enjoyable. I especially loved all of the excursions that TEAN planned for us as a group like the elephant nature park and Doi Inthanon National Park. Food and transportation in Thailand is extremely affordable which was a big positive as I never had to limit my experiences while abroad. Overall, Chiang Mai is the most amazing place I have ever been and I couldn't have asked for better staff than TEAN!

TEAN is an amazing program!!

October 06, 2019by: Kaylee Lanczycki - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Dunedin, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

TEAN is an amazing program. They go above and beyond to prepare you for your trip abroad. I went to Dunedin NZ for a semester abroad and the TEAN staff is so supportive. They prepare you very well before departure and help you get to know fellow study abroad students. The orientation program when you first arrive in your country is full of fun and educational experiences. TEAN goes above and beyond to make sure you are prepared and enjoying your experience. There is staff present in your country who plan activities and are there for support. I highly recommend you study abroad through TEAN.

Best program ever!!

October 04, 2019by: Melissa Fischer - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

My semester in Australia was truly like a dream. It was astounding to me that I was half-way around the world making new best friends and traveling to the most amazing places all while being able to receive a full semester worth of credits. Not only was the trip filled with amazing experiences, it was full of wonderful life lessons as well. Being half-way around the world really instills a sense of true independence, there’s no going home or having your mom around to help when you run into trouble. I learned to do things on my own which pushed me to enjoy doing things on my own as well. If nobody was around to head up to the beach or go to dinner, I found myself going on my own instead of sitting around doing nothing thanks to this new-found sense of independence. That being said, my time in Australia also taught me how important it is to take advantage of opportunities when they present themselves, no matter how big or small, even if they scare you. Looking back, I am so happy I didn't back out of sky-diving, scuba diving, or our hike in the Bali heat because those experiences were some of my favorite times, not only my trip, but of my whole life.

A once in a lifetime experience!

October 04, 2019by: Kathryn Raeder - United States

Program: Intern Abroad in New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

My summer interning in New Zealand through TEAN was truly one I will never forget. The application and interview process supported by TEAN’s excellent staff was smooth and I was placed in the appropriate field in which I wanted to gain work experience. I had a blast on the orientation with the other interns; it was a great way to make new friends and get to see the country before settling into the internship. I lived in a beautiful apartment that TEAN organized with other interns, balanced working hard during the week and exploring NZ on the weekends, and established connections with my supervisors. I learned so much about my field, gained real-world skills, and pushed myself out of my comfort zone. It was a summer full of personal and professional growth and I highly recommend TEAN!

Best six months of my life!

October 03, 2019by: Jelitza Gonzalez - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Auckland, New Zealand with WorldStrides

4

Going abroad with TEAN was one of the best decisions I have made. Because I had never been outside of the United States, the idea of going abroad made me nervous. TEAN helped me adjust and become comfortable with my surroundings. I am so happy I chose TEAN!

Chiang Mai is everything!

October 03, 2019by: Ann Carroll - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

4

I did not know what I was looking for when I first applied to study abroad in Chiang Mai, Thailand other than the mountains and cheap delicious food. While I got the mountains and cheap food, I also got immersed in Thai culture and the history of Thailand. I often look back at my time studying abroad and have to ask myself if it was all a dream. I have never tried so many new things and learned so much in such a short period of time and fell in love with it. Thai people are the nicest people and love when you speak (or at least try to) Thai. TEAN informed us of dos and don'ts in Thailand and helped us meet Thai students to help further immerse ourselves in the culture. TEAN went above and beyond when providing us with resources to live successfully in Thailand. I learned more about myself than I ever expected to and grew into a better version of myself. Because of the resources TEAN provided, I was an informed student studying abroad and was able to be culturally respectful. I thank TEAN for playing such a huge role in helping me grow as a person and I cannot wait until I can return to my second home. I love you Chiang Mai!!

I had the time of my life!

October 03, 2019by: Lily Bensko - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Wellington, New Zealand - Massey University

5

Studying abroad is a must do, and New Zealand is the perfect place. It truly feels like another, happier, more adventure-filled world! The classes were very research-based, which I loved. There are so many places to hike-beautiful, popular tracks through famous national parks, local walks through the forest, or brief paths from the side of the road to a lookout or waterfall. There are hot pools to sit in, oceans to surf, and beautiful beaches to picnic on. I made awesome friends-some local kiwis, some other American students, and some other international students, which struck a balance of getting to know my area, having suggestions of where to visit, and having friends to travel with. New Zealand is the place to study abroad, and TEAN is the program to do it through. They help you find a program/university that meets your needs, they outline every step of the process (applying, getting your visa, when to book airfare-all the niggly things I would otherwise mess up!), and they offer so much support while you're away. Being 9,000 miles away from your friends and family seems a lot less scary when you have all of the help that TEAN offers.

Most rewarding experience

October 03, 2019by: Jenna Hodgkin - United States

Program: Intern Abroad in Australia with WorldStrides

5

I loved my internship experience in Australia! The first week at the Cairns orientation was spectacular! We went snorkeling and diving in the Great Barrier reef, went on a walk through the rainforest with an Aboriginal guide, and had a chance to skydive, raft, bungee jump, or hot air balloon. My internship in stem cell research was really beneficial for furthering my education and experience and I know it will help my resume and graduate school application be more competitive. I also had a great time in Adelaide going to Australian Football games, going to the beach, spending time in wine country, and spend time in the city center. The TEAN staff were amazing and always there if I needed help or support! The local TEAN staff in Adelaide had great connections and coupons to get discounted or free meals or events. I will always remember the sites I saw and the friends I met!

Spring in Korea

October 03, 2019by: Mei Snow - United States

Program: Study Abroad at Korea University with WorldStrides

5

Going abroad to Korea University was my second time studying abroad with TEAN, and it was absolutely amazing! Korea was a lot of fun and the school was absolutely amazing. We had orientation with TEAN where we could fight jetlag with fighting people in Taekwondo, watch a jump show, dress in Hanbok, and eat amazinggggg food. I am vegetarian so food was delicious when I could eat it, but I was able to meet fellow non-meat-eaters and we went to eat together. I will say its difficult, so just know that going into it. Its not impossible but do not expect it to be like America. TEAN was great with making me feel supported with everything I loved, I really connected with the in country adviser, Sandra. She is amazing and we still talk to this day and just catch up and talk about running races together. TEAN is wonderful at making sure you have someone to talk to and give you resources to find things you love and can get involved with.

Trickeye museum in Hapjeong areaHan river with christmas decorationUniversity

Amazing time in Shanghai

October 03, 2019by: Mei Snow - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Shanghai, China with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad with TEAN was the best decision I've ever made. Studying abroad in Shanghai was my first time studying abroad, I have traveled around but not for more than a week or two so living there, I had a lot or worries at the beginning. From the entire application process, I probably emailed 100 times just to ease my stress and TEAN was amazing at responding to emails and making sure I had all the information I needed and more. Once I got to shanghai, I had an amazing time. TEAN orientation was great at really letting us students bond before classes started. I love my shanghai group, everyone was absolutely amazing and they became some of my best friends. Shanghai is amazing for everything you could think of. There are older parts if you like history, there are bars and clubs if you like nightlife, there are cafes and restaurants for every type of food and dessert you could want (even vegan/vegetarian/halal)! TEAN takes you on amazing excursions to different places in China and allowed me the opportunity to do things I never would've thought have. 10/10 you should go, and trust TEAN will take care of anything you could possibly need. They are amazing resources and friends.

Student with ID at Guanghua Tower in Fudan UniversityNight stalls in ChengduSunrise

Melb baby! The chance of a lifetime

October 03, 2019by: Michael Herlihy - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Melbourne, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad in Melbourne, Australia was amazing and so impactful. TEAN helped me get all my paperwork done in a timely manner and were very helpful in making sure I was on time for everything. Melb itself is a beautiful city that has so much to offer on every corner. It is full of rich culture and has incredible food, coffee, art, and music. The place has something new waiting for you always. If you love the arts then Melb is totally for you. You don't need to look at a phone at any point as there is just so much street art or someone performing on the street. I attended RMIT University which was right in the CBD. Its modernism was cool to see next to some historical buildings. The city is thriving with new buildings going up everywhere. It truly is booming. I met some pretty awesome people as well and was able to create friendships that will last forever. Overall, the experience was superb and going through TEAN was easy to do. I recommend Melbourne to anyone.

ISA made my first trip overseas an incredible journey

September 29, 2019by: Alexander Azar - United States

Program: Research Abroad in Leuven, Belgium with WorldStrides

5

I chose the Euroscholars program through the ISA company to study abroad because I was impressed by the academic opportunities offered. I was not disappointed. I was able to work directly with a professor and conduct a thesis paper. I was given a great residency with friendly staff that helped me adjust to living on my own. Leuven, Belgium been a university town for about 600 years and has a historic and current international community that opens doors globally. I became with people from all six inhabited continents. Everyday I was able to ride my bike past castles and thriving communities. I recommend this program

Amazing time abroad

September 28, 2019by: Gearld Smith - United States

Program: Intern Abroad in Seoul, South Korea with WorldStrides

4

Spending time abroad was amazing. Meeting different people and living in another culture was super amazing! Id love to do it again. The atmosphere before was professional setting and working with my original degree and profession. The foods and traveling abroad make it more of a high side to try interesting and new things.

Participant in Seoul

Monash University in Melbourne

September 27, 2019by: Omar Khodor - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Melbourne, Australia with WorldStrides

4

In a TEAN study abroad program, you get to know the staff on a more personal level. The week long orientation in the beginning is filled with meeting new people and hearing new stories, not excluding the TEAN staff (who have many exciting study abroad stories to tell)! These personal connections extend when you are relocated to your host city, and the TEAN staff always check up on you throughout your semester and plan unique outings to attend. They make sure that the opportunities are always there for you to have one of the best times of your life.

An experience that changed my life!

September 26, 2019by: Veronica Rodriguez - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

5

Everything about my trip abroad was an amazing experience. I loved all the people that were there to host the program and the teachers. As well, all the trips that were preplanned were incredible. I took the opportunity to go on the optional Morocco trip and that was an experience of a lifetime. I strongly recommend studying abroad in Sevilla!

The wondrous city, Seville

September 25, 2019by: Emily Berry - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

4

The staff is beyond amazing. I loved going to Madrid, Toledo, Granada, Cordoba, Lisbon, and Morocco with ISA, the experience with them was unforgettable. So caring and informational!! I learned so much and saw so many things. ISA rocks!

I had the time of my life in Chiang Mai!

September 23, 2019by: Skylar Yee - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

I was extremely apprehensive in my decision whether or not to go abroad; however, it ended up being the best decision that I have ever made. Not only was my world view broadened, but I also learned so much about myself and my role as a global citizen. I had no prior experience in international travel, but now I consider myself a pro traveler. Chiang Mai is so different from what I am accustomed to in the US, which is what attracted me to want to study there; we were able to experience the slow pace of life first-hand through the homestay, which allowed us to get integrated into Thai society. This was one of my favorite parts of my time abroad; we planted rice and learned a traditional Thai fingernail dance. TEAN was extremely accommodating, right from the start of the application process up until the program ended. They prepared us for assimilating into Thai culture, which was greatly appreciated considering how intimidating it was to go to a country in which I didn't know the language. They kept us busy during orientation (such as taking us to an elephant sanctuary or visiting Wat Doi Suthep!), which helped immensely with jet lag. The excursion to the Golden Triangle was also very enjoyable for me, as I feel like I learned so much from this trip that I would not have experienced if it were not for the program. Over the course of 5 months, I made so many friends and countless amazing memories. No matter any concerns that you might have, do not let that stop you from making the decision from coming here! You will not regret it.

6 months that change the way I see my last 20 years

September 18, 2019by: Tom Bloxam - United Kingdom

Program: Study Abroad in Melbourne, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad in Melbourne through TEAN was a remarkable experience. I took trips to a variety of exciting places in nature and in the city. Melbourne is a beautiful place, the people are for the most part welcoming and enthused with visitors; the food is varied from delightful cheap dumplings to gourmet crocodile burgers to chicken parmas (a pub staple); the culture takes influence from both Europe and Asia, culminating in an exciting mix unique to the city. Through TEAN I gained an immediate group of friends and explored parts of the city and surrounding areas (including going to New Zealand with a fellow TEAN student), all with whom I still keep in touch. We were guided and helped throughout my time there by the TEAN location advisor, who was a spectacular asset. The trips offered were also very cool, we went on a walking tour of the whole city, watched an AFL game, and took a tram down to St. Kilda to dine and watch some comedy. They were helpful through the entire trip, and I very much recommend studying through TEAN.

Semester full of unforgettable memories!

September 12, 2019by: McKenna Moody - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

I made the choice to study abroad because I wanted to push myself outside my comfort zone while seeing the world from a new perspective. Going through the TEAN: Semester Program in Chiang Mai, Thailand has been the highlight of my college career. It was a bit intimidating at first, as it’s not a popular location, and I did not know anyone going, but the TEAN staff on site had us jump right into things! Without the opportunities and excursions TEAN gave us, I might not have experienced what it was like to live like a local for 5 months. If I could go back and do it all over again, I would not have changed one thing. My favorite part was our homestay in Baan Sri Khum village with a local family who hosted us for a week. My entire experience abroad would have been so different if it weren’t for that one week that TEAN had set aside for us to integrate ourselves into the culture!

To travel is to live!

September 11, 2019by: Catrina Crowe - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Sydney, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Hands down the best experience I have ever had! I chose to study abroad with TEAN because of the immense amount of opportunities they offer. Everything from touring the Opera House, attending a traditional Aussie rugby game, learning to surf at the iconic Bondi Beach.. you name it, they offer the event to students for free! TEAN also offers off campus housing in which I chose and was able to live on Coogee Beach, 15 minutes outside of the city. Living off campus, on the beach was a huge advantage for TEAN students looking to be more part of the community and live a truly independent lifestyle while abroad. Furthermore, TEAN offers amazing pre-excursions and spring break trips that allow students to travel as much as they can while abroad. TEAN staff organizes it all so you don't have to worry about anything. I attended the New Zealand pre-excursion which allowed me to meet more people within the program and explore so much more of New Zealand that I would not have seen by myself.

Fantastic opportunity of Australian culture while learning sports psychology

September 09, 2019by: Nick Robinson - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Perth, Australia with WorldStrides

5

This program was only about 11 students which was perfect for easily getting to know everyone in the group. We had a really close relationship with each other and the professor on the trip because of this. The group size allowed us to do the majority of events together and travel around the cities we stayed in with ease. The course we took was Sports Psychology and we were able to relate the course to the sports we got to see while on the trip which added a lot of value to our learning. The course gave me a look into the psychology behind sports and athletes. Methods used to perform optimally in sports and things that can affect the mind when competing at the highest level. This course was great in discussion-based assignments and learning while in the country of Australia by seeing different sports played in person.

Great Barrier Reef in Cairns, Australia

The summer of a lifetime!

September 07, 2019by: Nicole Foster - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Perth, Australia with WorldStrides

4

I am so happy I decided to go on this particular trip to Australia. If I had not, I would not have made the friends that I did. These friends made me the more confident and outgoing person that I am today. On top of that, I learned so much about Australia and their healthcare system, along with the Aboriginal people of Australia. The hands-on learning approach was very helpful in learning and keeping it exciting considering it was a study abroad. I really enjoyed visiting the Royal Flying Doctors Service, the Aboriginal unit of St Vincents Hospital, and the Health Lodge of Byron Bay. Any other Public Health class wouldn't even compare to this amazing experience in Australia.

My Singaporean experience

September 07, 2019by: Caroline Shepanzyk - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Singapore with WorldStrides

5

Amazing study abroad program located in the heart of Singapore. The class rigor, weekend trips, and cultural events made it a spectacular semester abroad. I have made some of my life long friends here and mentors for life. If you wish to explore for of Asia and see how quickly Singapore has grown in a span of fifty years, it is a one in a lifetime opportunity.

An unforgettable experience

September 05, 2019by: Sarah Hachman - United States

Program: Study Abroad at Korea University with WorldStrides

5

My summer in Seoul was extraordinary! South Korea is unlike any place I have been before. The people are genuine, the food is amazing, and there is a neighborhood for everything you could ever want. With TEAN's program, I studied at Korea University, one of the most prestigious schools in the country, and I found that it really lives up to its name. My class was incredibly engaging and fun, but was still informative. I was excited to attend lecture every day because my professor made the effort to make the content interesting and really pushed for class discussion. KU also provided a buddy program where you would be put in a group with a local student, who was there to answer any questions or to show you cool places around the city. Campus was beautiful, and while it is large and in the middle of the city, it is easy to navigate. If you do happen to get lost, people are most always willing to help you if you ask. My experience with applying to the program and planning my departure was easy. TEAN ensured that students would be successful by providing them with checklists and other helpful materials before the start of the program, and even had a pre-departure orientation, where they discussed everything from finding healthcare in the country to budgeting and finances to little tidbits of culture, such as the call buttons for service in restaurants. My summer in Seoul was absolutely life changing, and I am so incredibly thankful to TEAN for facilitating it. I recommend this program, 100%.

The best experience ever

September 04, 2019by: Mallory Harr - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

Imagine going snorkeling, kayaking, rock climbing on a beautiful Thai beach for College credit!!! This is exactly what this course offered! I was excited for every single day of this class! Pierre (My professor) is a delight & such an endearing soul. I definitely recommend this class, especially if you are really active!! I am a student-athlete so I thoroughly enjoyed all of the activities and did not find anything too challenging. Not to be dramatic or anything, but this class was the best three weeks of my life!!! If you are somewhat interested in health, or holistic health studies, I would take this class to expand your horizons! I am a business student so it was a great change of scenery.

Friendly staff, incredible city, opportunity of a lifetime!

September 03, 2019by: Sabrina LeDone - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Sydney, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad with TEAN was the best thing I ever did and Sydney was the best place I've ever been to. I know that studying in a new place can be overwhelming and scary, but not with TEAN. TEAN made everything so much easier to handle. From the application process to arriving in Australia, all of the pre-departure tasks were made simple. TEAN helped me to establish my housing, my flights, my classes, and much more. Once I got there the help continued. They introduced me to the city by immersing us in the culture. We went surfing at the iconic Bondi Beach, attended a rugby game, ate authentic foods, and much more!! I never would have gotten so much out of my experience without TEAN. If you're looking for an authentic experience, you should study with TEAN. You will have the time of your life!!!

The TEAN program in South Korea is amazing!

September 01, 2019by: Takara Askew - United States

Program: Study Abroad at Korea University with WorldStrides

5

The best decision that I could have ever made in my choice to study abroad was choosing this wonderful program, TEAN or The Education Abroad Network. Everything that they offered and did for all of us students always went above and beyond our expectations. From taking a taekwondo class, going to popular and entertaining amusement parks, to having monthly coffee shop meet-ups, I always felt like our advisers truly cared for us and would be there if we ever needed them. As I went into this program and even my university, Korea University knowing no one at all, I was understandably very nervous about whether I would actually find any friends or enjoy myself for the long 4 months. However, these worries were quickly put at ease due to the many activities TEAN my fellow travelers and I did during the first week we were in Korea, making a bond between all of us that lasted the entire time studying abroad, and even until now, about 3 months after we all returned back to the U.S. I am truly so appreciative that I was able to have this adventure with the TEAN program, and everyone who wants to travel or study abroad should go through this program also.

TEAN participants holding Korean food in bowls

Once in a lifetime opportunity

August 30, 2019by: Sophia Selino - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

This program was absolutely incredible. I had help with every step leading up to my departure. It was a smooth and stress-free process. The excursions ISA brought you on were the most memorable experiences I have ever had. I was brought to places I never would have gotten to on my own. This included going to North Stradbroke Island, Byron Bay, and national parks with hidden glow worm caves and beautiful waterfalls. ISA set me up in my own apartment just a short walk away from the campus at Bond University. The cost was very similar to my tuition at home making the entire experience very cost-effective. Bond University itself is a beautiful private school with a diverse population of study abroad students. I made friends from France, Korea, Denmark, Norway, Brazil, and more. The staff there was amazing and the campus was always holding events for their students, including free food on the water every Wednesday! The ISA staff in Gold Coast were my rocks while I was abroad. I went to them for all kinds of questions and they helped me through any problem I had. I had lunch with them on a few occasions because that's how comfortable I became with them. While I was abroad, my grandfather passed away. Cole and Maggie (ISA staff) helped me book flights back home and file insurance paperwork so I wouldn't have to worry about the cost. I am eternally grateful for their help. They will never know how much easier they made my grieving process. They helped me contact teachers for accommodation. It allowed me to focus on my family and nothing else. I will always remember their help and kindness. I can't think of a better place to study abroad than the Gold Coast. It is a vibrant city with lots of young people. The beaches are phenomenal and there were always things to do. My time in Australia was so special and I hope other people choose to go. Any logistic obstacles can be overcome. I wouldn't trade my time abroad for all the money in the world.

Participant with Cole and Maggie

Australia, a land of discovery and relaxation

August 30, 2019by: Kavya Kavanakudy - United States

Program: Study Abroad at University of Sydney with WorldStrides

4

After weeks, maybe even months of looking into different study abroad programs, I finally found the Education Abroad Network (TEAN) and that was when my dream started becoming a reality. Throughout the entire process of filling out papers and getting my classes together, TEAN was very supportive and open to helping me. Even while abroad, the support didn’t stop. The occasional check-ins and activities were great additions to my study abroad experience. Sydney is also a very safe city. The transportation system continued very late into the night. I felt safe walking around Sydney at night, much safer than I ever would at home. With the village housing and living among other internationals and Australians, it was easier to integrate with Sydney culture. The village housing came with a kitchen equipped with a stove and oven. There's a convenience store nearby and the Macquarie shopping center is a 20 min walk with multiple grocery stores. The food on campus is also very good. There's a good diversity of options. The village housing was okay but the community was better. It was a great community for international students and there was always something going on and to do. In regards to Macquarie University, the grading system is definitely harder than at home, but I felt comfortable enough reaching out to my tutors and professors for help when needed. Sydney has a high cost of living but Macquarie Uni is just outside the city so it's a little bit easier but still costly. Also, the food on campus is GREAT Shopping at Aldi was definitely cheaper than any other store. Try to use public transport as much as possible. A good junk of my money went towards Ubers. I learned that I love to travel and I'm not afraid to travel on my own anymore. I hadn't really lived on my own or on a budget before. It was definitely worthwhile I liked the support I had from TEAN before, during and after the program. I also liked the number of opportunities I had to travel and try new things. Sydney is the right city for me and I can't wait to go back.

Participant riding on a big crocodile figureSydney Opera House

Experience of a lifetime!

August 30, 2019by: Victoria Guasco - United States

Program: Study Abroad at University of Sydney with WorldStrides

5

My experience with TEAN was amazing and I recommend going abroad with them for many reasons! First, they made the transition in and out of Australia very smooth. Second, they were there if anything went wrong and I could always count on them to help me get adjusted. Third, they held events for TEAN students to get acclimated and make friends. They never left any of us empty handed and they did everything they could to make us feel safe and comfortable. Everything was very organized with the program and if you needed something you could get ahold of them within minutes. My experience with TEAN and studying abroad in general was amazing! Those four and a half months I was there is a time I will never forget and always cherish. Leaving your home and started completely new is very hard, but with TEANs help you will not regret your decision to go. This is an experience I will never get back and its something that I am very proud of. I cherished every second I was there and I did things I don't normally do. This was my time to live and I took advantage of every second I was given.

Me on the top of famous mountains in Queenstown, New Zealand

An unforgettable experience

August 27, 2019by: Rachel Wajda - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

4

Studying abroad was more than I could have ever hoped for. It was a big step for me to move across the world, all by myself. As intimidating as it was, I am so grateful I took the chance and trusted TEAN as my guide into such a big decision. I always felt as though I had TEAN's support from the moment I started thinking about going abroad, until my flight landed back home. I learned so much about myself along the way and the memories I have made I will definitely hold onto forever.

View from SkyPoint climb on the Q1 tower in the Gold Coast - buildings

Fall semester 2017 at Konkuk University with ISA

August 27, 2019by: Nick Simons - United States

Program: Study Abroad at Korea University with WorldStrides

5

I thoroughly enjoyed my time abroad with ISA and had the opportunity to grow personally, academically, and professionally. Through both Konkuk University and ISA itself, I was able to experience the local culture and meet people from all over the globe, receive a world class education in my major(International Business), and gain valuable experience interning as an English Teacher, through correspondence with ISA and my host university. This allowed me to learn to work with a diverse group of people and understanding the business and social culture of a nation the United States is not traditionally familiar with, providing me invaluable knowledge in my chosen field. I have also made lifelong friends and contacts and expanded my social network in more ways than one. Outside of academics, through excursions and my own personal efforts, I was able to see much of South Korea and experience every aspect of it's rich culture from the sprawling metropolis of Seoul to the smaller, historical city of Suwon. Much of the convenience of the program can be summed up in my previous statement. With ISA, a student has the option of attending excursions that will allow them to see every part of the country and really dive in to it's history. Conversely, if a student wishes to strike out on his or her own, that is perfectly acceptable as well, providing basic safety guidelines are followed(such as notifying on-site staff when one is leaving the city of the host university, carrying one's passport with them, etc.). Overall, the experience is truly what one makes of it, and ISA provides the support and flexibility to truly make a semester abroad one's own.

A true cultural immersion experience!

August 26, 2019by: Kate Klygis - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Bilbao, Spain with WorldStrides

4

The ISA Bilbao Program is perfect for students looking to get the most out of their study abroad experience. A combination of prestigious art and history museums, easy and manageable public transportation, and a nurturing educational environment made it the perfect place for me to meet locals, practice Spanish, and learn about a completely new culture to me. For those looking to occasionally travel outside of Bilbao, there is an airport, train, and bus station that allows you to do so--although it may become pricey depending on the season and destination. Situated within the rolling green Basque Mountains and a 30-minute metro ride out to Spain's Eastern Cantabrian coastline, there was always something new to explore around the region. On the academic side, the course-work was challenging but very manageable and super applicable to the greater social context of living in the Basque Country. I chose the ISA Language and Liberal Arts program, so my classes were focused on bettering my reading, conversation, and writing skills while learning about the history and culture of Bilbao and its surrounding regions. My university provided a ton of extra-curricular opportunities (sports and hobbies) that all students (both international and local) could participate in together. I went on a couple hikes with the hiking club and they were some of the most memorable experiences of my semester. ISA offers a home-stay or independent housing option for living, and I would 100% recommend a homestay. My host family made my experience so much more incredible and it was a very easy way to understand the city better. My host family has given me a personal connection to the city, and I already can't wait to go back to visit them some day!

I lived my best life in Paris, and I have ISA to thank!

August 26, 2019by: Rebeca Avila - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Paris, France with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad with ISA was the best thing I could have done for my experience. Even if you choose to go abroad alone or live alone, you will never truly be alone with this program. I met one of my best friends in the world in the same program (the Sorbonne) and got to see some really cool places I don't think I would have seen on my own if we had not had the excursions provided by ISA. The ISA staff is very lovely, and you can tell they deeply care about your well-being and safety, and make it clear that it is their goal to ensure you get the best experience while you are abroad. I had a home away from home with them, whether it was enjoying their planned activities like Thanksgiving dinner, or coming into the office after class to get some studying done (they even helped me with tutoring)! What I like about ISA is that I was able to have enough independence and do/enjoy many things on my own, but there was also a lot of support and company provided when you wanted/needed it. I made so many friends and memories that I will never forget, and that I would not have if I did not have ISA with me every step of the way. I would do it all again if I could!

Local architecture

Nothing can beat this. Read if you want the experience of a lifetime!

August 26, 2019by: Nina Petrillo - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

In my notebook, I kept a section titled “moments” where I logged pages on pages of all the small, but impactful, experiences I had in Thailand. As I read through it now, attempting to answer this question, I can’t help but tear up. You don’t realize how far a simple smile can go until you experience it in place of words, and I don’t think there was one day I didn’t feel the radiating kindness. From the wholesome, simple lifestyle in the village, to the music blasting at Zoe in Yellow, each person reflected pure joy in what they were doing because they did it surrounded by those they love. It just goes to show how little we need to truly find happiness, and how important it is to hold onto it once we’ve got it. In Thailand, it was never about who had the next best thing, but instead how can we help someone feel a little bit better today. My biggest takeaway from studying abroad in Thailand was a shift in perspective and newfound appreciation for all that I’ve had and have the potential to receive. It’s eye-opening, and one day the whole world will see it too. Orientation was easily my favorite part of the trip. We learned the culture of Thailand, specifically in Chiang Mai, by becoming fully submerged within it. I don't think a day has gone by where I haven't talked about my village homestay experience. Whether that be running out of the shower at the sight of a cockroach, planting rice in the family fields, cooking with my Mom or riding our bikes around the close knit community. I will admit it, seeing the homestay on the program itinerary made me a bit nervous, but I think it's fair to say it shaped my entire trip. I fell in love with the Thai people and their simple, beautiful lifestyle where I was welcomed with open arms. I've never felt so much love, and yet almost no words were spoken. I keep in touch with my village sister to this day, seeing what her and her family are up to and reminiscing on the time I was lucky enough to have there. I went to every TEAN activity I was in Thailand for (I traveled to quite a few countries!) and I'm happy I did. It gave our program a chance to just be together outside of school and bond over the pure fact that we’ve been living in Thailand for so long! Specifically, the Thai buddies was my favorite experience. I actually became very close with a few of them (as well as some Muay Thai instructors) who brought us out at night to local Thai bars, amazing food stalls and answered any questions we had, no matter how many there were. Whenever I’d get a little homesick, I’d remind myself of this community I had here in Thailand and how lucky I was to have it. TEAN did all they could to make sure we knew we weren’t alone over here, and that’s a special feeling.

ISA Salamanca summer 5 program: absolutely perfect

August 25, 2019by: Greggory Nekrasovas - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Salamanca, Spain with WorldStrides

5

My goal for my sophomore year of college (the summer going into my junior year to be specific) was to study abroad. I am a music industry major at Rowan University, so I wanted to find a program that was economical, but also going to provide academic, creative, and personal opportunities. Ultimately, ISA's Summer 5 Program, based in Salamanca, Spain, provided all of those opportunities at an affordable rate, but also allowed me to obtain 3 college credits towards my Spanish minor, plus, made me a better person and allowed me to travel and appreciate not just Salamanca, but the entire country of Spain and have a desire to travel more as well.

5 months of unimaginable adventure

August 25, 2019by: Stephanie Huynh - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

Choosing this particular program and destination was hands down the best decision I've ever made. The experience itself was challenging, fulfilling, heartwarming, immersive, and crazy fun. I would go back right now if I could. I'm Asian American and going back to a region that has a lot of familial history was eye-opening and an opportunity of a lifetime. I learned a lot about myself and I think I'm a better person because of the way I got out of my comfort zone (physically, mentally, spiritually). The highlights of my time there include going on the TEAN organized excursions, exploring waterfalls, traveling on the weekends, and eating khao soi in between classes. Do this program if you want to not only go on an adventure but also learn so much about the rich culture of Thailand along the way.

Participants near a waterfallBuildingsTwo people at the White Temple in Chang Rai
Stephanie Huynh video

Best semester of my life

August 24, 2019by: Emily Cesario - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Prague, Czech Republic with WorldStrides

4

I studied at the University of Economics in Prague fall 2018. It was one of the most enriching and exciting adventures I have ever been on. The staff for both pre-departure and at the ISA location in Prague were the kindest, most helpful people that really wanted us to succeed in the study abroad. The ISA staff in Prague were incredibly approachable and I felt completely comfortable talking to them and asking questions. Prague itself was an amazing place to go to school. There is always so much to do in the city and the country has such a unique history that is amazing to learn about first hand. ISA offers a high amount of independence, which I loved because I felt like I could do things my own way. This does mean that any immersion into the culture is really up to you and what you make with your time. Make sure to take advantage of being in such a cool city!!

I loved my experience with ISA

August 22, 2019by: Mia M - United States

Program: Study Abroad in San Jose, Costa Rica with WorldStrides

5

I loved the process of studying abroad with ISA starting from applying, getting credits approved, being in Costa Rica, and even coming back. Applying was easy by doing it online and ISA's employees consistently checked in on me while I was deciding. Their options for Spanish-speaking countries with classes that would transfer back to my school were great. Other options from other programs kept me from studying abroad with them. Being in Costa Rica was also the most fun summer I've had. I learned so much about the culture because of the cultural activities ISA had for us. We walked to the Jade Museum in San Jose, and I thought that was a nice touch because that's probably how locals get there (because it was so close, unless they had a car). I also did service-learning, which helped me get to know other locals from different backgrounds. When I returned to the US, I even chose to become a Global Ambassador so that I can speak about my study abroad experience with my fellow students and convince them to go with ISA!

Mia M video

A home in Auckland

July 01, 2019by: Lauren Rezak - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Auckland, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

Deciding to travel abroad is a beautiful first step in the right direction towards adventure, independence, and growth. If you are having a difficult time deciding on a study abroad location or program well I am here to report that you will have a glorious experience with The Education Abroad Network at AUT University. I spent many days deciding which city in New Zealand that I wanted to be centered in for school and to pursue my academics, but I ultimately decided the city is where I wanted to explore. Auckland provides an upbeat social scene with city events and happenings occurring on the daily! After finishing class for the day, I found myself trying a new eatery, checking out thrift shops, hiking to Mt. Eden, going on coastal runs, attending a poetry slam, listening to street performers, and so on! These are just some of the few things I did close to my new home for the four months I was abroad. Of course, one of the main reasons you are going to NZ is to witness its scenery and awe-inspiring landscapes as well. There are several outdoor destinations accessible via transportation from Auckland. On the weekends and during the mid-semester break were when I planned larger trips with new friends and peers that I met in my program, through my dorm, or in my classes. TEAN does a beautiful job in getting students acquainted with others in their program during orientation which is held in Queenstown of the South Island. Here, you have the opportunity to meet peers who will become your support system. During orientation, you have the chance to ask all of your questions about the country you will be living in. All initial concerns can be addressed before students then disperse to their chosen universities all across the country. At my university, I was close with my new TEAN buddies and I became quickly acquainted with international students and locals living in the dorms at the Wellesley Student Apartments. Being in a diverse city, I was thrilled to meet so many different people! I am very grateful to have met amazing individuals from across the globe and explore sights I could only dream of. TEAN does an amazing job in keeping you updated and informed about all that NZ has to offer while guiding you to do so in a smart and safe manner. The courses at AUT were great and if you are looking to learn about the Maori culture then take the International Noho Marae course! I loved it and gained a family through this course!

All stars for Auckland

June 29, 2019by: Lauren Rezak - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Auckland, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

So you want to go abroad? I am beyond excited for you! If you have the desire to explore New Zealand with The Education Abroad Network, well then I am here to tell you that you are in for a spectacular journey! I had no idea where I wanted to be centered for study abroad, but I would like to share with you all the glorious reasons Auckland proved itself a suburb place to be centered. I was drawn to New Zealand due to the country's scenic beauty and rich culture. I ultimately chose Auckland as it is the diversity hotspot of the country. Going to classes in the city and having the opportunity to explore all the events or happenings that the city has to offer made for a very social scene! I was quick to make friends who I would later journey with on the weekends and during the mid-semester break. I know the transition may sound daunting, but I must say TEAN does an excellent job in assisting you with this change! The beginning of your experience starts with TEAN students and staff in Queenstown where you explore the South Island city and meet other people in the same program as you. This week helps establish a network of friends who are just like you and it allows you to learn who your support system will be for the next few months. After you make these connections, you disperse to your school of choice with those attending the same university as you and your adventure in the North Island will begin! Auckland will not disappoint as there is always something to do. When I wasn't in class I spent my days exploring the city at weekly farmers' markets, running along the coast, finding a new restaurant to try, or planning my next out-of-city adventure with friends! Since the city and school are both so diverse, you'll have the opportunity to meet both local and international students! If I can offer advice to you is that any abroad experience depends on you! If you have the urge to journey in a beautiful country, make new friends, learn about a new culture, and learn more about your growing independent self well then Auckland is ready for you and TEAN will be by your side every step of the way!

Mystic meadow on the way to Milford Sound in South Island, New Zealand

Bloody ripper!

May 31, 2019by: Marina Renzi - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Brisbane, Australia with WorldStrides

4

I absolutely loved living in Brisbane, Australia. Everyone was so incredibly friendly, the weather was perfect and sunny, and the academics and living situations were great. I enjoyed going into the city on my off days and just exploring everything that Brisbane had to offer. The best part about the city is its close proximity to many of the larger Australian cities. It made for the perfect home base and definitely exceeded all of my expectations. I would choose to live in Brisbane in the future if I could because it is family-friendly, safe, and definitely packed full of fun activities and events for everyone to enjoy. I hope to return to Australia soon!

My semester in Shanghai was superb

May 31, 2019by: Rugile Kasperiunaite - Lithuania

Program: Study Abroad in Shanghai, China with WorldStrides

5

It was absolutely worthwhile: I was able to gain a new perspective on various subjects thanks to my peers and professors at Fudan University and experience what it's like to study, work, and live in Shanghai. I fell in love with this city and I don't think I could have picked a better program to go there with.

Chiang Mai was an unforgettable experience

May 30, 2019by: Devan Matthews - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

Not only am I glad that I studied abroad, but I am beyond pleased to have studied with TEAN in Chiang Mai. This program was very helpful in pre-departure and were also always available to assist while I was actually in Thailand. The program included many field trips that immersed us in the culture, something that I think was unique to this program versus other programs in Chiang Mai. They took us to the famous temples, the Golden Triangle, waterfalls, and much more. The week we arrived we had so many program events that took us around the city to the best restaurants while also informing us on how to have the best experience abroad. The actually courses had a high rigor that was similar to my home university; I definitely received a quality education. I took Buddhism, Thai art, Thai language, and a Rights & Activism course. All of the classes were very informative about Thailand and I enjoyed all of them for their ability to help understand the culture better. The Thai language seems intimidating but it was VERY fun and ended up being my favorite class. It is a cool thing to be able to come home with some knowledge on a completely different culture.

Looking through temples for art class

100% perfection, I'm going back!

May 23, 2019by: Jenna Chipkin - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

4

My study abroad experience couldn't have gone any better. Going through TEAN was the best choice i made without a doubt. w With TEAN we got so many extra things which made the experience that much better. Living in the Gold Coast was also the best decision for me, right near the beach. There is so much to do there and so many little beach towns nearby, including Byron bay, surfer paradise and Berligh Head. Bond University was such an amazing university and a beyond beautiful campus, everyone there was really helpful. Tean helped me to meet some of my beat friends and see and experience things i've never could've of imagined. I also got to travel outside of Aussie to NZ. TEAN was the best choice to help me go abroad and I tell that to everyone who's thinking about going. I'd love the whole experience so much I'm most definitely going back to Aussie after I graduate.

It was great, mate

May 21, 2019by: Mariah Ouellette - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Brisbane, Australia with WorldStrides

4

I studied at the University of Queensland in Brisbane. From the application process to the day I left, TEAN advisors were there to help if I needed them. They helped me adjust to life in the city and resources if anything were to go wrong. Luckily, I never ran into trouble. Brisbane was a very safe and beautiful city. After traveling to many different locations in Australia, I was pleased with my decision to pick Brisbane as my host city. By the end of the trip, I felt like a native Australian and I hope to visit again someday.

Studying abroad in New Zealand with TEAN was the best decision I've ever made!

May 17, 2019by: Amy Chan - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Dunedin, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

I loved studying abroad with TEAN! I was super nervous to go all the way to New Zealand for a semester last fall, but TEAN made my experience really enjoyable. The first week/orientation was primarily meeting other students in the same program and learning a bit about the culture in New Zealand. The fact that I was able to know a bunch of students before actually going to class was so helpful because I was able to recognize people on such a large campus. Additionally, TEAN was very organized and really cared about their students. Every month, we had the opportunity to meet with our Resident Advisors for food or for an event and just talk with them about life and things we were doing which I truly enjoyed. Words cannot describe everything that TEAN did for me!

University clubs are the way to go!

May 13, 2019by: Cassidy Yates - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Newcastle, Australia with WorldStrides

5

I had an amazing experience with TEAN at the University of Newcastle. TEAN staff was extremely helpful in getting situated and throughout the semester. The university had great classes, professors, and resources that allowed me to continue my education as if I had never left the US, while also gaining a more global perspective on things I commonly study. I also met amazing people from Australia and all over the world through several clubs on campus that also allowed me to take small trips to explore the area.

The experience of a lifetime: Australia

May 08, 2019by: Bowen Daileader - United States

Program: Intern Abroad in Australia with WorldStrides

4

After completing my internship this past fall, I knew that this experience would always be memorable in my life. I was able to work at a sports trainer + first aid in Perth. Australia. I worked with kids of all different ages and that played all different sports such as Australian football, soccer, basketball, netball and more. This internship provided me with multiple techniques and tools that I will continue to use during my career path. The atmosphere was phenomenal , the people were friendly and I felt like I was at my second home. Overall, I will recommend this program and this amazing country to anyone who is considering either. I also thank TEAN and everyone else who helped me through the best three months of my life

Participant enjoying the beach in PerthA guy interacting with a QuokkaHarbour bridge

I loved Chiang Mai so much, I want to move there!

April 08, 2019by: Margaux T - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

My time abroad in Chiang Mai with TEAN was an experience I will never forget. I took so many intriguing courses from Buddhism, International Relations in SE Asia, Rights & Activism, Thai arts, etc. TEAN immersed students into the culture through various excursions like the Elephant Nature Park, homestay in rural village, and hiking in Doi Inthanon National Park. My favorite thing about the program was its close attention to respecting the culture and supporting local businesses. We learned about how to be respectful when entering temples, cultural etiquette, different foods, religious customs and so forth. I loved that we got to witness the Yi Peng and Loi Krathong festivals which many tourists travel to the city just to see. It was really helpful to be able to practice Thai everyday outside of the classroom to communicate with locals when buying food or bargaining at the markets. All of my professors were really encouraging and dedicated to their fields of research. I enjoyed how our excursions aligned with our academic lessons and we were able to visit historical sights like the Golden Triangle. I could not highly recommend studying abroad with TEAN - throughout my whole time abroad I was impressed with how well organized all activities were and how easily reachable our program coordinators were.

Wish I could stay forever! Best 4 months of my life!

March 19, 2019by: Hailey Praska - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

My study abroad experience truly exceeded all of my expectations. I am so glad I chose TEAN as my program because without them my experience surely wouldn't have been as great as it was. TEAN provided an incredible orientation at the beautiful Great Barrier Reef which was truly a dream. I also got to live in my dream city, Gold Coast. Gold Coast is a fun city that provides so much including both big city vibes along with chill beach town vibes. You can head into Broadbeach and Surfers Paradise for some gambling, a delicious dinner, or a fun night out at the clubs or you can head to Miami or Burleigh Heads and enjoy a nice beach day or watch the beautiful Aussie sunsets. Bond University is such a great university. The professors are top notch and really invest their time in the students and help with whatever they can. The campus itself is something incredible with beautiful modern architecture and a lake right in the middle. Bond also provides social events pretty much weekly which were a fun way to meet new people, especially some local Aussies. I honestly could not speak more highly of TEAN and how incredibly helpful they were throughout my entire study abroad experience. If I ever have the opportunity to study abroad again, I will definitely do it through TEAN.

A unique opportunity for growth and a change of perspective

March 11, 2019by: Maire Klein - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

As a whole, studying abroad was the best choice I’ve ever made. Being exposed so many different people, opinions, places, challenges, and perspectives allowed me to grow immensely as an individual. Speaking to people from countries such as Norway, South Africa, Denmark, Sweden, Spain, and (of course) Australia broadened my mental horizons about the world and challenged some prior misconceptions that I held. TEAN made this whole experience effortless as they helped with setting up phones, navigating the public transportation, arranging meet-ups for socialization, and offering suggestions about the best places to see/go in and around Gold Coast. It seems cliché to say that I met some life-long friends, but I truly believe I will stay in close contact with a group of fellow TEANers that made my experience the best that it could be. Gold Coast is also the most unique city, with a plethora of hikes and outdoor activities to do just inland, and a wide range of fun to be had on the gorgeous beaches.

Going abroad with TEAN is amazing!

February 26, 2019by: Sydni Tokuyama - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

I will always recommend going abroad with TEAN! They made the application process so easy on me. They replied super quickly and always made me feel like I could never ask a stupid question. When I was in Australia, they kick started my adventurous semester and made adjusting to being away from friends and family a lot easier! Then as the semester went on, TEAN planned fun events for all of us to go through and were super accommodating of all of our schedules. I always felt safe with them and they made me feel like I had a family while I was abroad! I can't express how appreciative I am of TEAN and I do not think I would have had the same experience that I did without them. TEAN is amazing and so lovely!! Highly recommend to anyone!

Amazing experience abroad

February 12, 2019by: Jennifer Rossi - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Dunedin, New Zealand with WorldStrides

4

Before traveling abroad I was definitely nervous about the process and meeting new people. The Education Abroad Network helped that by making the process a smooth transition and gave me a good group of people to make a basis of friends with. From form completion to arrival at the airport, orientation and even during the semester. Someone was always available to assist whenever questions arose. Once settled in, the experience was absolutely amazing. The support provided from TEAN allowed me to have to confidence abroad that was a life changing experience.

A life-changing experience

February 10, 2019by: Abby Milza - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad has always been a dream of mine. The months leading up to my departure date were exciting and optimistic; however, when it finally came time to leave America for Thailand, I was beyond nervous. Living in a country I had never been to, halfway across the world, knowing no one, was such an intimidating concept. I quickly realized that if I was going to make this experience a great one, I needed to change my attitude completely. Once arriving in Thailand, my nervous energy soon turned into excitement. Countless possibilities of my future time in Thailand raced through my mind and I was eager to try any and everything I could. Studying abroad not only enabled me to meet and form close bonds with friends from across America, but along countless countries in Southeast Asia. These individuals changed my mindset for the better, allowing me to be more open to new experiences. The knowledge I gained from my friends, along with the locals, country itself, and school work, has only enhanced my perceptions of things around me, embracing and looking forward to new opportunities while keeping in mind cultural differences worldwide. Going abroad with TEAN was not only the best decision I’ve ever made because of the amazing country I studied in, but because of what I have learned from those who surrounded me.

Studying abroad at Bond University is an experience not to be missed!

February 01, 2019by: Kaitlin Carroll - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Hi everyone! My name is Kaitlin and I studied abroad in the Gold Coast of Australia at Bond University in Fall 2018. I loved every second of my abroad experience. I lived in a beautiful location just steps from the beach, went to an awesome school and met amazing people who I went on to travel around with. Everyday abroad exceeded my expectations. I would highly recommend choosing TEAN as your study abroad program if you are thinking of going. The staff in both America and Australia were easily reachable and would quickly respond to any question I had about the abroad process. They provide spectacular living options for all budgets and even put on fun events throughout the semester like surfing lessons and jet-boating. I was able to travel to a country I had only ever dreamed of visiting and checked so many activities and sites off my bucket list while abroad. And thanks to TEAN, I was able to make this big move stress free and ready for the adventure. I am so thankful for my outstanding abroad experience and would recommend it to everyone considering! The only downside was that it couldn’t last forever.

An experience like no other!

February 01, 2019by: Rachel Semple - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Dunedin, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

I had an incredible experience studying in New Zealand with TEAN! From the moment I arrived in the airport, I was welcomed by a TEAN representative and guided through the foreign country. TEAN really does think of every detail; they provide you with a SIM card, and place you in intentional housing so you can like with like- minded others! TEAN's orientation program is unparalleled, it included a weeks worth of great food, bonding with others, cultural lessons, safety tips, and an overall perfect balance of structure and free time to explore. TEAN representatives were always available when I was in need of advise; I met with one of my local representatives and she helped me plan my semester break road trip! Overall, I have nothing but great memories with TEAN.

Life-changing adventures and growth!

January 31, 2019by: Joanna Barton - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Auckland, New Zealand with WorldStrides

4

I could not have asked for a more life-changing or positive experience than the one I had with TEAN (as cliche as that might sound). While abroad, I grew as an outdoorswoman, aspiring ecologist and independent adult. I could not have done so without the aid of the incredible TEAN staff, who were there for every step of the way! They helped me fill out all the required forms (such as my student visa) and find and acquire affordable housing. Once in Auckland, they were just a message or coffee outing away if I ever needed help or someone to chat with. The orientation in Queenstown was a unique experience, where I got a headstart in making friends that would be studying all over New Zealand. It featured a well-organized day trip to Milford Sound, where I got my first indication that I had ended up exactly where I needed to be. If you have the opportunity to abroad with TEAN, take full advantage because you will definitely not regret it!

I fell in love with the 'gong

January 31, 2019by: Kelsey Young - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Perth, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Going abroad with TEAN gave me the best and most memorable months of my life!! TEAN helps every step of the way- from initial application to applying for and tracking your visa through your final days abroad. Orientation was amazing! If you have the chance, DO IT! I will never forget scuba diving on the great barrier reef or talking to my friends about their morning skydiving! From there, TEAN arranged a shuttle to take me to my home uni in Australia which made everything super easy! I loved living in Kooloobong Village right off campus, and my Australian roommates are like my international brothers and sister. I loved the coffee and dessert catch ups and cultural experiences (Opera House tour anyone?!) with Jenn, our local TEAN advisor. Wollongong was there perfect location to travel! Our weekend trips included: Sydney (many many times), the Blue Mountains, Hyams Beach, Kiama (multiple times), Alexandria, the Gold Coast, Thirroul beach, the Glowworm Caves in Helensburg, the Seacliffe Bridge and many more! We spent Spring Break in Tasmania and New Zealand to explore Honeymoon Bay, Hobart, hot springs, Mount Wellington, Christchurch and anything else we could get ourselves into! My time in "The 'Gong" will never be forgotten and I hope it is not over! I can't wait to return one day.

Summer in Shanghai!

January 17, 2019by: Gianna Gronowski - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Shanghai, China with WorldStrides

5

TEAN was without a doubt the best option when choosing a study abroad program. Going to a foreign place can be scary, especially when you don't know anyone and don't speak the language. TEAN held a predeparture video conference as well as maintained regular email contact and answered all questions I had, no matter how trivial they might have been. I felt confident going into the program, something that wouldn't have happened necessarily without TEAN's help. On this trip, I was fully immersed into Chinese culture, and I even got to do experiences like go see an acrobatics show, ride a river cruise, learn how to make dumplings, and visit the tea fields! I also made friends from all over the world that I still keep in touch with to this day. What a rewarding experience!!

Gianna Gronowski video

An unforgettable experience

January 14, 2019by: Gabrielle Leung - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

4

I arrived in Chiang Mai with a few Thai words under my belt and an overly stuffed suitcase. I left Thailand with an experience I didn't know how to express. I was able to live with a Thai student in the Chiang Mai University dorms. On the first night, we ate hotpot for dinner, met some of her friends and went to the student night market. This welcome was just the beginning of the friendliness and kind welcome I would receive in Thailand. From the village homestay to the Krabi excursion over spring break, TEAN allowed us to discover the many aspects of Thai culture and the natural beauty of the country we were grateful to live and study in. The courses we took applied directly to our everyday experiences. I learned to walk slow, listen deeply and always smile.

The best decision I've ever made!

January 05, 2019by: Jessica Sidhu - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Dunedin, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

Going abroad to the University of Otago in Dunedin New Zealand with TEAN was the best choice I have ever made. There are many like-minded amazing students who are also embarking on this adventure right alongside you. TEAN does a great job of helping organize the logistics of studying abroad and always made me feel supported without ever taking away my freedom. It was hard to decide what to do each weekend between camping in beach caves along with penguins, hiking amazing mountains, swimming in clear blue rivers, hanging out in the awesome college-town of Dunedin, and more. I met some of the most amazing peers I have ever met in my life. TEAN provided us with a week to get to know one another in an orientation before the semester started. This made such a difference because once I arrived at school I already had 40 amazing new friends. During the semester I also traveled with TEAN to Thailand and had an amazing time on that trip as well. I am so glad that I took the leap and went abroad to the University of Otago with TEAN.

Best Experience of my Life

January 04, 2019by: Madison Burt - United States

Program: Study Abroad at University of Sydney with WorldStrides

5

I had the most amazing time at ICMS. It is a smaller school, however, it is such a great community. Everyone is welcoming and I learned so much about many other cultures all around the world. I made friends that will last me a lifetime here. One will probably be in my wedding. The professors go out of their way to make sure you get the most experience possible. One of my courses we learned a computer system for event management and one we went down to the beach to observe the surfing competition and the aspects of that event. I took Gastronomy and got to go on a Food Safari with my class throughout Sydney. ICMS truly made things so fun with all of their events that constantly allowed you to meet new people. If I could go back I would in a heartbeat.

The best four months of my life!

January 03, 2019by: Kristen Dove - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

My semester abroad would not have been as amazing as it was without the help of The Education Abroad Network, TEAN. TEAN made every aspect of my semester abroad as easy-going and as fun as possible. From the beginning, a TEAN staff member worked alongside my home university advisor in order to make my application process as painless as possible. The helped by setting reminders of the tasks I had to complete and the deadlines which they had to be done by. They also helped me book my flights by connecting me with a travel agent who set everything up for me including the flight and the baggage. Before departure TEAN held a very helpful pre-departure orientation in which TEAN staff and the TEAN global Ambassadors from my university provided insight on the four months to come by proving important knowledge and recommendations. TEAN started off my semester abroad with a bang with an unforgettable orientation in Cairns, in which I was able to hike a trail with an indigenous tribe, sky dive and dive in the Great Barrier Reef. All of these experiences were unforgettable and have made for great stories. After the orientation concluded, TEAN helped provide accommodations to where we would be staying for our semester abroad and helped us to get settled by giving us tours of our city and answering any questions we may have. The living accommodations provided by TEAN were beautiful and the staff at the places were friendly and helpful. I had the luxury of staying in Peppers in Broadbeach. The apartments provided a breath-taking view of the ocean and city and the the high level security left no doubt in my mind that my belongings and myself would be safe. Throughout the semester our host country advisors were available to answer any questions of provide any support we may have needed. they were there to provide recommendations of restaurants or fun things to do, ways to get involved at our universities or in our cities or to just be someone to talk to. They hosted events throughout the semester such as milkshakes at Cowch, a local ice cream place or doing the famous Q1 climb in Surfers Paradise and lastly our very fun but sad farewell dinner. Throughout the entire application process and four months abroad, TEAN provided the absolute best service and was an absolute pleasure. I am sure my experience abroad would not have been as amazing as if was if it wasn't for TEAN and their amazing staff.

The land down under full of aquatic beauty and culture!

January 02, 2019by: Ruth Smith - United States

Program: Study Abroad at University of Sydney with WorldStrides

4

Australia was an amazing adventure that I would do all over again in a heartbeat. soon after we first arrived TEAN arranged for a trip into the outback to see Ayers Rock and do some hiking as well as learn about the Aborigines culture. It was definitely a highlight of the trip for me and a humbling experience. While studying at ICMS I took business and event management courses that were requirements for my major at my home University. We only had classes two days a week which left plenty of time for traveling up and down the coast and even to New Zealand. So many great adventures and the landscapes are truly breathtaking. TEAN helped us make plans to travel if we needed it and they also arranged immersion trips within Manly and Sydney such as a tour of the famous Opera House, or surfing lessons on the famous Manly Beach. TEAN did a great job at helping with any questions we may have had.

Couldn’t have imagined it any better!

December 31, 2018by: Trevor Jansma - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Dunedin, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

TEAN made my and so many other people’s study abroad experience amazing. They made the whole process of flying halfway around the globe and learning and hopefully immersing into a new culture so much easier and more fun than expected. They led me to meet people that I will be friends with forever, and showed me a country and filter that I will one day have to show my family

Great school, livable city, beautiful country!

December 31, 2018by: Jill Howard - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Wellington, New Zealand

5

My experience at Vic was wonderful not only for the beautiful, easily accessible campus, but the extremely friendly and knowledgeable professors. The city of Wellington itself was so fun to live in as it was extremely walkable yet filled with a variety of restaurants, cafes, shops, museums, and other activities. Everything the city had to offer was colorful and unique and there was never a shortage of things to do! Being at the southern tip of the North Island made Wellington the perfect home base for travelling throughout New Zealand. I can attribute my preparation beforehand and comfort throughout the experience to the kind and helpful TEAN staff who were always accessible and happy to support their students in any way possible. The program provided an unforgettable experience that I would recommend to anyone looking to go abroad!

Amazing from start to finish

December 29, 2018by: Claire Lechlitner - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

4

My experience with TEAN was amazing from start to finish! During orientation, I learned to scuba dive for the first time, on the Great Barrier Reef. Later, traveling with TEAN through Thailand, I was able to take a Thai cooking class, bathe elephants, hike up a waterfall, and kayak through costal islands. So thankful to have lived in Australia and to have traveled all around with the support of TEAN staff. My housing was beautiful, as was the beach only a block down the street. During the semester, I took a 25-minute ride on the G:link to my classes at Griffith University three days of the week. The rest of the time, I was free to visit the beach or explore local cities easily via public transport. There was always something to do on the Gold Coast!

Best experience I could have had abroad!

December 28, 2018by: Elizabeth Chung - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Shanghai, China with WorldStrides

5

I always knew I wanted to study abroad for a full semester in college and TEAN made the experience as incredible as possible. Right from the beginning of my search process, I reached out to TEAN asking questions and trying to get a feel for the program. They immediately made me feel as though I was choosing the right program because of the quick communication and ease of the application process. While in Shanghai, we had a weeklong orientation in Shanghai that was chock full of excursions and activities to get us settled in China (SIM cards, metro passes, local registration, etc). As for the academics, we were given clear pathways for getting used to our new university and classes that made it such a seamless transition. The TEAN apartment that I lived in for the semester was incredible! I loved being able to live in an apartment that was part of an actual Chinese community so I could fully integrate with the community. Furthermore, the apartment put me smack in the middle of incredible shops and restaurants that I was trying out all the time. Studying abroad can be a stressful process, but TEAN made it so easy for me to enjoy myself and get the most out of this unique cultural experience. If you choose to study abroad with TEAN, you will not regret it!

Incredible program, Incredible trip

December 26, 2018by: Kyle Steenport - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Dunedin, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

The Education Abroad Network is full of people who want nothing but the best for you. They are there for you no matter what. From the moment you start the process of choosing a place to study to the moment you step foot back home after your travels, they have got you covered. They provided me with an experience that has been life changing.

Formative and rewarding in so many dimensions

December 25, 2018by: Amanda Bednarick - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Dunedin, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

Study abroad was certainly the most worthwhile experience I have ever pushed myself to undertake. I learned all the cliche lessons that you read from study abroad alumni - they only sound so cliche until you take the jump and do it and realize they are all true. I feel more independent, more self-sufficient, and confident in my ability to navigate the world. I learned that people from other countries are FAR more similar to me than they are different, and that every single experience is either a good one, or a lesson learned. The TEAN staff were incredibly helpful and served as an invaluable resource before, during, and after my semester in Dunedin. You'll be in very good hands if you study abroad through The Education Abroad Network! The experience has inspired me to want to live abroad after finishing my undergraduate degree and continue to lead a different, mind-expanding life and seek to better understand the world and its people.

Amazing semester abroad!!!!

December 20, 2018by: Lauren Dundore - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Auckland, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

I can't say enough good things about TEAN and their program in Auckland! I felt entirely supported along the way from when I first applied to when I was over there. TEAN has people there to help you the whole way, including amazing staff in the city to check in on you if you need it, and to take you on amazing excursions throughout the semester, like a rugby match and hiking a dormant volcano!! I met some lifelong friends as a part of this program, and I can't believe that it's over. The best experience of my life, and I would choose TEAN again in a heartbeat. Can I go again?!!!!

An amazing experience

December 19, 2018by: Nathan Legault - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Perth, Australia with WorldStrides

5

This program was one of best, if not the best, experiences of my life. The course material was very interesting and was only made better by the professors, who are simply incredible, both as professors and as people. As the program moves around the east coast of Australia, we got to see a wide range of what the country has to offer, from the major city of Sydney to the surfer town of Byron Bay. The various excursions helped to expose us to the areas and topics that we were studying. Scuba diving the Great Barrier Reef was something I thought I would only dream of doing and this program gave me the opportunity to do so. One of my favorite memories, however, was hiking through the Blue Mountains with a guide who was one of the local Aboriginal people, an experience that only an established program like this could arrange. This program was an amazing experience and TEAN made it all possible. The hardest part of the entire program was convincing myself to go home because I could have stayed for much longer.

The time of my life!

December 18, 2018by: bailey house - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

TEAN was the best possible program I could've gone through. They were there throughout the whole entire experience, and were very supportive and made sure you knew that people cared about you. Once you get to Australia, they stay by you the whole time, and make sure you know that they are always there for you to talk to. TEAN also does a great job with orientation and getting you situated in another country. The orientation is a great way to make new friends and meet other people who are studying abroad. Not only that, but it gives you a great opportunity to go to the great barrier reef and scuba dive! It was the most amazing four months of my entire life and everybody at TEAN helped to make sure it was.

Melbourne became a second home!

December 17, 2018by: Emily M - Ireland

Program: Study Abroad in Melbourne, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad with TEAN was one of the best decisions I've ever made! The adventure began immediately with our four day orientation where we saw kangaroos and koalas, went scuba diving at the Great Barrier Reef and even got to go bungy jumping. During these first few days everyone got to know each other and I made friendships that lasted not only the whole semester but continue after coming home! The housing accommodations were up to date, clean and were in the heart of the CBD which was a great location! I loved the campus of University of Melbourne, it was the perfect mixture of old architecture and modern design and the classes offered were interesting and different from the options available at my home university. TEAN provided fun activities throughout the semester and a network of support! I would recommend this program to anyone wanting to study abroad :)

An experience that makes everyday feel like a dream: Gold Coast through TEAN

December 17, 2018by: Leah Lavin - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

TEAN made sure we were never alone throughout the whole process from choosing a program to landing back home after the program was over. As soon as we got off the plane in Australia, we were greeted by several TEAN staff that made somewhere so far away feel like home. Every week, they would update us on events going on in the community that I would've never been able to take part in without them. Having a resource just a phone call or 5 min walk away was something that made my abroad experience exponentially better. My living arrangements were the nicest living arrangements I will ever get in my whole life. For the four months, I lived on the 22nd floor of the 5-star hotel Peppers Broadbeach. I highly suggest you look up pictures because you surely won't be disappointed. We were a minute walk from the beach, the bus stop that could bring us across Gold Coast, a large mall with a grocery store, and countless opportunities for adventure. The location and the actual housing itself felt like a dream. I have heard nightmares of people's living arrangements while they're abroad but the only nightmare I experienced was leaving mine! The Australian culture is extremely welcoming which made it easier to integrate into the local culture. Utilizing the advice from TEAN to join an on-campus club was one of the best pieces of advice I got throughout my experience. By interacting each week with students at the university outside of the classroom, I was able to form connections with these students that allowed me to immerse myself fully into the culture. They invited me to family outings and friend activities that allowed me to create my own family within their culture. If I could do this a million times over, I would still choose the same program. TEAN made each individual student that came through the program feel as if they were part of a bigger family. I always felt as if I had someone to go to and rely on for anything from travel advice to a hug when I was missing home.

Best semester of my life on the Goldie

December 07, 2018by: Hannah Morgan - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad is a once in a lifetime chance-unless you’re lucky enough to be able to do it multiple semesters in college-and TEAN is the program to go through!! I studied abroad in Gold Coast, Australia at Bond University and would do it again if I could. I was living my best life every day on the Goldie! Thanks to TEAN for some amazing events with great photo opportunities like snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef to the Q1 Skypoint Climb above all of the Gold Coast coastline my Instagram game was continuously on point! I’m so thankful for the support from the staff once I was in Australia they really helped it become my home away from home. TEAN is a study abroad program that offers the maximum help every step of the way and is worth every penny you have to pay for the program!!

Good experience

November 29, 2018by: Lara O.

Program: Community Engagement in Chile with WorldStrides

4

I chose AFS because I have friends from other countries that went on a AFS exchange program and said it was the best experience of their life. When I was abroad they helped me through my hard times.

A dream come true

November 21, 2018by: Rachael Durand - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

TEAN Study Abroad on the Gold Coast was by far the most professional, comprehensive, and caring program to choose for my study abroad experience. From the introductory e-mail, to the first step off the plane, to the tearful departure back home, TEAN made me feel profoundly comfortable to leave home for four months entrusting them with a truly formative experience in my life. TEAN was exceedingly transparent and thorough with each and every leg of my abroad experience. They also had remarkable communication to ensure every phone call and e-mail was returned without fail. Studying on the Gold Coast was absolutely picture perfect. The convenience of the public transportation system allowed us to enjoy the coastline of sensational beaches, rainforest scenery hidden in the mountains, or the nooks and crannies of urban culture scattered in each city. There are plenty of coffee shops filled with locals catching up over a cuppa, kabob shops blaring music for the nightlife goers, or a local artist’s markets on the weekends intriguing your inner tourist. There is absolutely something for everyone. The apartment style living I was fortunate enough to live in on the Gold Coast was luxurious to a tee, and I felt so blessed to be able to call Peppers Broadbeach my home. We were treated like family by the staff at Peppers, and they were considerably generous to all our needs and concerns. If you don't mind a quick public bus ride to school every day and living 30 seconds from one of the most beautiful beaches ever... I strongly recommend. Studying at Bond University during my time in Australia was much like my home university. The buildings were all in one cohesive location, the classrooms were modern, and the campus was aesthetically pleasing. The transition of coursework from American style teaching to Australian was a bit of a transition, but TEAN students rallied together to help one another and I never felt alone or lost thanks to them. I am extremely grateful to have chosen TEAN for my study abroad experience because I now have a network of people who are considered family. Thank you TEAN for being the gift that keeps on giving to everyone you meet.

Great summer!

November 18, 2018by: Emma S - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

4

It was a great experience! I'm so glad I went to Thailand with a study abroad program so I could learn about the country more in-depth, and this program was a great way to do it. I loved being able to stay in the dorms, and the class was really interesting. The timing worked out great with my schedule so I was able to do other things over the summer as well. And of course the food was amazing!

Most spontaneous five months of my life!

November 16, 2018by: Madi Hayes - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Melbourne, Australia with WorldStrides

4

TEAN Abroad was incredibly helpful in my transition from my home university to life abroad. They guided me in the entire process of applying for the program at my dream destination of Melbourne, Australia. Not only did they organize a fantastic orientation in Cairns, Australia, but they also​ continued to enhance our experience by showing us around our chosen city and brought us to different events throughout the semester. Because of the incredibly nice people at TEAN, we got to see a live footy match and sport the hometown gear in the fan section. We got to see a comedian at the International Comedy Festival and a concert at a local music venue. They tailor each program so that everyone can experience something they enjoy and make everyone feel right at home. Not once did I feel unsafe in my apartment or ignored from the TEAN staff. I got to spend my five months abroad in an apartment right in the city center with great new friends who I still remain in contact with. If anyone is looking to study abroad in Australia, New Zealand, or Asia, I highly recommend they use TEAN as their third-party organization to help make their experience remarkable right off the bat.

Mesmerizing city, incredible academics, and perfect support system

November 16, 2018by: Sabrina Murray - Australia

Program: Study Abroad in Sydney, Australia with WorldStrides

5

I always knew I wanted to explore the vibrant scenes of Sydney, Australia, but I could never have been prepared for the pure magic I experienced. Sydney was the most incredible home away from home. From the perfectly crafted flat white coffees I got daily at various local cafes, to the beautiful scenic hiking trails I explored with international friends in my free time, and the exciting night life beside the iconic Opera house at dusk. If I could go back now, I would. One day I will find my way back. If Sydney wasn't compelling enough on its own, UNSW and TEAN made the study abroad experience the most impeccable and memorable it could be. UNSW is an impressive university of engaging professors teaching subjects they are passionate about to students from around the world. The campus was homey and welcoming which made studying late at the library or meeting groups for projects out in the grass between classes so much more enjoyable. TEAN has left me nothing but good things to say. I will admit I was reluctant at first to let them help with registration as I felt like I was being disconnected from the process, but by the end I was so thankful for their support. They made the transition from UW to UNSW seamless through registration, to picking me up at the airport, hosting me in Cairns for an indescribable orientation, and planning group events in Sydney throughout the semester. I couldn't have lasted through the end of the semester without TEAN when I was unexpectedly diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes and sent to the emergency department. My TEAN adviser in Sydney was the single most helpful, supportive, kind, and caring person through the whole process. She made the uncomfortable and rattling experience so much more manageable by helping me to schedule doctor's appointments, navigate insurance, and giving me the courage to stay in a different country without the comfort of my family. This truly solidified my feeling of Australia and TEAN as a home and family away from the states.

Complete scam of a program!! Use any other company!!

November 12, 2018by: Anon ymous - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Tokyo, Japan

1

I'm currently on ISA's Tokyo program and I'm extremely let down and disappointed. Rude and incompetent student advisors, basically nonexistent student activities, and horrible living conditions. My student advisor spends her time attempting to police students and give arbitrary punishment, and for the price (~$16,700) this program is a complete scam. I have to pay my own utilities and plane ticket, which should have absolutely been included for that price. The quality of my classes is absolutely horrible and the teachers don't take any of their classes seriously whatsoever. The dorm rooms are small and modest, the kitchens are filthy, and for the price I paid I'm horrified. The rooms only cost $500 USD a month, and for such an expensive program I expect much more. The only good thing has been the Japanese friends I've made along the way. My incompetent student advisor and ISA have only made my time in Tokyo miserable. I wish I chose another program instead of ISA.

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WorldStrides responded to this reviewDecember 14, 2018

Thanks for your review of our Tokyo program. It is in our best interest to ensure every students' experiences are as enriched and as meaningful as possible. Have you shared your concerns with your on-site director or program manager in the U.S? We would like to extend our sincere apologies regarding your experience with our Tokyo program and encourage you to reach out via email/call your program manager.

10/10 recommend

November 12, 2018by: Claire Arakaki - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Shanghai, China with WorldStrides

5

TEAN made the study abroad process as easy and painless as possible. The staff was very patient and helpful with any questions and concerns I had before leaving. I had nothing but good interactions with everyone in TEAN. They made sure we settled into our host country by taking us to get a SIM card, bank account, class registration and even an internship if you wanted one. Orientation before school was a lot of fun and gives you the chance to make friends right at the beginning of the semester. The friends I made and the experiences I had in Shanghai were amazing and I wouldn't trade it for anything. TEAN's housing was unreal and I will probably never live in such prime real estate again. There were plenty of restaurants and cafes around the apartment making it convenient to hang out with friends and study after school. It was also pretty close to a metro station which made it easy to get around the city. While I was in China, I traveled with TEAN to Beijing and Chengdu. Both trips were expertly planned, and we were able to see most of the cities in a weekend. While we were in Beijing, we went on a sunrise hike on the Great Wall and explored the art district in the city. The hike was one of my favorite highlights of the semester and was a once in a lifetime experience. If you have the chance to go abroad, go with TEAN. 10/10 would recommend.

Internship in Shanghai through TEAN!

November 11, 2018by: Keara Cole - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Shanghai, China with WorldStrides

5

This summer, I interned in Shanghai through The Education Abroad Network (TEAN). I am never one to write reviews, but my experience was so life changing that I really wanted to share it! Due to engineering having a strict curriculum sheet with little flexibility for transfer credits, I was worried I’d never get to study abroad. When I went to the career fair and met with a TEAN representative, they offered me a unique solution. Since I knew my major would be difficult to get the appropriate transfer credits for, they recommended that I do their summer internship abroad program. Since internships are critical for gaining the practical experience needed for a job, and since I’ve always wanted to be part of an abroad program, this was the perfect fit for me! When you apply to internships through TEAN, there is a drop down menu to pick the field you’d like to internship in. I chose Computer Science, and got an internship at a startup blockchain/FinTech company where I felt like I was genuinely contributing and learning every single day. Apart from work, I also got to meet so many students from around the world and explore Shanghai with them! I had so much fun, made so many life-long friends, and even got practical experience along the way. To anyone thinking about studying/interning abroad (especially if you have a major where you can’t take a semester of gen eds), I personally recommend The Education Abroad Network (:

Summer internship In Perth

November 08, 2018by: Josh Wicker - United States

Program: Intern Abroad in Australia with WorldStrides

5

My experience interning with TEAN was truly once in a lifetime. As a statistics major with the desire to work in Sport Analytics, I was unsure of the availability of a position for me, especially on the other side of the world. However, TEAN found a great opportunity for me in Perth with the Athletic Institute, which enabled me to strengthen my interpersonal and analytical skills, all while learning and working with an Aussie Rules Football Club. In regards to the program, I really appreciated that I was given enough tools to succeed, all while learning so much and having a chance to completely immerse myself in Aussie culture. Reflecting back, I have become much more confident and independent as a person, and have great memories which will last a lifetime.

The best five months of my life!

November 07, 2018by: Rachael Emond - United States

Program: Study Abroad at University of Sydney with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad in Sydney with TEAN was the best decision I ever made. I loved every minute and would do it all over again if I had the chance. TEAN was so helpful throughout the entire experience, and the orientation up in Cairns and all of the events they set up for us throughout the semester made such a difference in my whole experience. Sydney has now become my favorite city and I got to do and see so many things I never thought I would. There are so many unique and amazing opportunities to be had while studying abroad, and I had the absolute best time while I was there. I can't imagine having gone anywhere else or going with any other program.

The Land of Smiles!

November 07, 2018by: Isabella Lupo - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad in Chiang Mai, Thailand has to be one of the best decisions I've made in my life. It is a beautiful country with the most friendliest people. I loved my experience with TEAN because their supportive staff made me feel comfortable and safe throughout my whole semester abroad. TEAN values the importance of cultural immersion and pure adventure. I absolutely loved the excursions and field trips TEAN designed for the students because it allowed us to meet local Thai students at the University and get a better grasp of all that Thailand has to offer. The academics were challenging, but I enjoyed learning general subjects such as art, history/political science, and public health in a different country. It's one thing to study Thai art from a textbook back home in the United States, but it's much more powerful to study Thai art when you are in the country itself. Through this program, I was able to step out of my comfort zone and experience a one in a lifetime opportunity! One of my favorite memories from this program would be the one week home-stay we did in the beginning of the semester. Despite not knowing the language, I truly developed a relationship with my family that I'll never forget. My peers and I tasted authentic Thai food, planted rice in the open fields, and attended Buddhist ceremonies with our families. I received more than I could have imagined due to this trip - life-long friendships, a love for travel, and a home away from home. TEAN is a wonderful program because it values both the importance of academics and the importance of cultural immersions. These were two aspects that I personally hold as top priority, so I knew this program was a great fit for me, and it could be for you as well! I would absolutely recommend this program!

Absolutely incredible!

November 05, 2018by: Sophie Claytor - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Wellington, New Zealand

5

My overall educational experience at VUW was really amazing - the teachers were all incredibly accomplished and easily accessible and the classes themselves were interesting. In addition, the administrations of both VUW and TEAN were absolutely amazing. Everyone with whom I spoke was kind, knowledgable, and very willing to help. TEAN did a fantastic job of preparing me for the specific program, so I really had all the information I needed. The only thing is that I wish I had known how amazing the food was going to be in Wellington, because I would have budgeted more money per week to eating out. In terms of opportunities, both TEAN and VUW provided experiences to interact with the culture. For example, during TEAN's orientation in Queenstown, the staff there had made arrangements for a professor from the University of Otago to come and teach us all about Maori culture. VUW offered many different events also related to Maori culture and discussion about it. Wellington itself is also a diverse and culturally rich city, with tons of different museums and cultural immersion opportunities. I felt very strongly that both TEAN and VUW encouraged participating in those opportunities, and I spent most of my off days doing so. I loved TEAN, VUW, and Wellington and would recommend the program, the university, and the city to absolutely anyone.

Best semester! Living in Sydney is a dream!

November 04, 2018by: Sarah Weese - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Sydney, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Living on the beach in Sydney, Australia was a dream!! I had the best semester of my life studying at UNSW and traveling with TEAN! Sydney is an amazing city and I found it very manageable to do my schoolwork while still exploring the city and beyond! I loved using TEAN as my program coordinators. The application process was easy and straightforward. Once accepted, they were incredibly helpful in answering all of my questions about flights, housing, classes and more! In Australia, TEAN planned the a super fun orientation where I made so many friends and gained a really good understanding of the culture in Australia. Throughout the semester, the TEAN Sydney staff planned a number of great activities that took me to new places and showed me so much about beautiful Sydney! Traveling with TEAN truly added so much value to my semester abroad and I highly recommend their programs!! While in Australia, I got the chance to not only explore Melbourne, Tasmania and the Great Barrier Reef, but I also travelled to New Zealand and Singapore! Try and explore that side of the world while you're there for a long time! But no worries if you stay local- Sydney has so much to see and do, you'll never be bored!

My Semester in Shanghai with TEAN--the BEST Semester of my life!!

October 23, 2018by: Julia Thompson - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Shanghai, China with WorldStrides

5

I studied abroad in Shanghai this past spring semester, and I absolutely LOVED IT--it was one of the most valuable and thrilling experiences of my life. Shanghai offers a unique combination of cultural history and rapid modernization. Each day in Shanghai, there was something new to explore; I wish I could spend another semester there! What made the experience truly over the top was deciding to go with The Education Abroad Network. From my first interest email to help choosing classes in Shanghai to showing me around the city to now requesting Fudan University transcripts, TEAN has been there to help me out every step of the way. TEAN, in partnership with UVA, also offers a unique Chinese language program that is limited to students in the program, so classes are only about 5 people. When we went back to our apartment, we could practice what we’d learned with our local Chinese roommate. We lived in an incredible TEAN apartment that was perfectly located between Fudan University and the metro station, which connected us to the rest of Shanghai. Some of my favorite memories, including hiking the Great Wall at sunrise and eating famous spicy hotpot in Chengdu, were thanks to the TEAN organized trips. Going abroad, especially to China, can be a little nerve-wracking, but TEAN staff made me feel prepared and supported throughout the whole process. Living in Shanghai challenged me to step outside my comfort zone and explore somewhere new. I had the opportunity to study at one of the top universities in China, practice my Mandarin on a daily basis, immerse myself in a completely different culture, and develop friendships with people from all around the world. However, transitioning to a new place does not come without its challenges, which is why I am so grateful to have gone abroad with TEAN, whose staff was there to help me every step of the way. During my time abroad, Shanghai truly became my home and the TEAN students and staff became my family.

Best 4 months of my life!

October 09, 2018by: Peaches Avre - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

4

I have always wanted to go to Australia. It was on the top of my bucket list but I had no idea if I was ever going to make that a reality. Luckily, I found a program that gave me hope that I could do so AND that met every requirement I was looking for in a program - look no further than TEAN! Not only were they a great support system throughout my time there, they gave amazing tips on things such as where to travel, what to try, and how to indulge in the culture. I loved how they included free.. yes I said FREE, excursions that highlighted what it meant to live in Surfers Paradise. The other students I met through TEAN was an experience on its own. I never thought I would connect with people so well and keep in contact with after the program ended. They are friendships I will forever treasure! Their program, staff, and other students truly made this experience unforgettable!

An AMAZING Australian Adventure

September 28, 2018by: Arial Aarness - United States

Program: Study Abroad at University of Sydney with WorldStrides

5

Going with TEAN to Australia was the best decision I made! They were super helpful getting everything ready and organized before studying abroad. Also, they picked me up from the airport and brought me to campus, planned a trip to the Outback, other activities to do in Manly and Sydney during the semester, and much more! I had a great experience with TEAN and studying at the International College of Management! I felt safe being away from family for that long because I always knew that I could rely on my TEAN team members in Australia. Thank you TEAN for helping me have the best semester abroad! My experience in Australia was amazing. I loved the college, it was located in Manly which is a beach town just a 30 minute ferry ride north of Sydney. I walked to Manly Beach almost daily, which was a highlight of my experience. There was a lot to do within walking distance of the school. I also lived on campus, which means I lived in a castle which was pretty cool! Class is the first two floors of the castle and I lived upstairs, it was great! I was able to travel throughout Australia and experience other parts of the country. The orientation trip to the Outback was very beneficial to meet other students and learn more about the Australian culture. Overall, I loved my time here and would recommend it to anyone thinking about this program!

An AMAZING Australian Adventure

September 28, 2018by: Arial Aarness - United States

Program: Study Abroad at University of Sydney with WorldStrides

5

Going with TEAN to Australia was the best decision I made! They were super helpful getting everything ready and organized before studying abroad. Also, they picked me up from the airport and brought me to campus, planned a trip to the Outback, other activities to do in Manly and Sydney during the semester, and much more! I had a great experience with TEAN and studying at the International College of Management! I felt safe being away from family for that long because I always knew that I could rely on my TEAN team members in Australia. Thank you TEAN for helping me have the best semester abroad! My experience in Australia was amazing. I loved the college, it was located in Manly which is a beach town just a 30 minute ferry ride north of Sydney. I walked to Manly Beach almost daily, which was a highlight of my experience. There was a lot to do within walking distance of the school. I also lived on campus, which means I lived in a castle which was pretty cool! Class is the first two floors of the castle and I lived upstairs, it was great! I was able to travel throughout Australia and experience other parts of the country. The orientation trip to the Outback was very beneficial to meet other students and learn more about the Australian culture. Overall, I loved my time here and would recommend it to anyone thinking about this program!

An AMAZING Australian Adventure

September 28, 2018by: Arial Aarness - United States

Program: Study Abroad at University of Sydney with WorldStrides

5

Going with TEAN to Australia was the best decision I made! They were super helpful getting everything ready and organized before studying abroad. Also, they picked me up from the airport and brought me to campus, planned a trip to the Outback, other activities to do in Manly and Sydney during the semester, and much more! I had a great experience with TEAN and studying at the International College of Management! I felt safe being away from family for that long because I always knew that I could rely on my TEAN team members in Australia. Thank you TEAN for helping me have the best semester abroad! My experience in Australia was amazing. I loved the college, it was located in Manly which is a beach town just a 30 minute ferry ride north of Sydney. I walked to Manly Beach almost daily, which was a highlight of my experience. There was a lot to do within walking distance of the school. I also lived on campus, which means I lived in a castle which was pretty cool! Class is the first two floors of the castle and I lived upstairs, it was great! I was able to travel throughout Australia and experience other parts of the country. The orientation trip to the Outback was very beneficial to meet other students and learn more about the Australian culture. Overall, I loved my time here and would recommend it to anyone thinking about this program!

TEAN gave me lifelong friendships

September 18, 2018by: Kelly Ryan - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Dunedin, New Zealand with WorldStrides

4

TEAN had me perfectly prepared for my semester in New Zealand fresh out of Orientation. The location, Queenstown, was unbelievable and I couldn't have asked for a better first location to see in that incredible country. I was in awe of the dinner we were provided with and the sessions where we learned about the country's culture. The luge and gondola excursion was my favorite- and the dinner at the top made me feel like I was on top of the world. I genuinely wondered how it could get any better than what I experienced at Orientation. It set the bar HIGH, let me tell you. I felt completely accommodated where we stayed/slept during Orientation and I felt like the group of TEAN students jived really well right off the bat. I joke all the time with my two closest friends I made while abroad that I never would have become so close to them if we didn't sleep in the same bunk as strangers the very first night of Orientation- and now they are lifelong friends! I never would have crossed paths with them if it wasn’t for TEAN. I had something in common with each and every person I met through TEAN in New Zealand- a love of life and a hunger to explore. I always say it takes someone special to spend 5 months in New Zealand on the other side of the world, and TEAN brought me those people. I was supported the entire time I was abroad by TEAN members and had plenty of opportunities to meet up with them and get dinner or see a show. Our farewell dinner was so emotional! We really became a family because of TEAN!

Amazing program

September 16, 2018by: Johanna Lazar - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

I absolutely loved this program. Staff are amazing, friendly and helpful, and plan a variety of activities that you can attend. I took Buddhism and Environmental Science and I enjoyed both, especially the Environmental Science one. I was in the dorms but still had my own private room separate from my roommate. Chiang Mai has so much to do and see. I had the best summer of my life with TEAN.

Best experience of my life

September 14, 2018by: Sierra Legeer - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Dunedin, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

I studied abroad with The Education Abroad Network and wouldn’t have it any other way. TEAN makes everything about studying abroad so simple; staff are constantly in contact with students to help fill out forms and make sure all the paperwork gets completed on time. In addition, they post numerous reminders and study abroad tips pre-departure, including stuff like what to pack, what adventures to embark on, and everything in between. Once we were in the country, we always had a staff member just a phone call or a few blocks away. They helped us get situated within our city and met up with us throughout the semester to catch up on how our experiences were going. One of my favorite things about TEAN were the excursions they offered. We had an amazing 5-day orientation in Queenstown, where we learned about Maori culture, went bungee jumping, ate really good food, took a tour of the iconic Milford Sound, and more! I also chose to go on the optional mid-semester trip to Thailand and had the absolute best time of my life. TEAN staff in Thailand were so much fun! They provided transportation all around the country, awesome excursions, and an overall amazing experience. Dunedin is a great place for college students to study abroad. You get the city feeling mixed with surrounding nature (mountains, beaches, rolling hills, etc.). Located on the South Island, Dunedin is only a few hours’ drive from some of the best scenery in the country. There are ample opportunities to fulfill your adventurous spirit, such as hiking, camping, skiing, rock climbing, and so much more. I really loved living in Dunedin because I was able to live with other international students and even two people from New Zealand! It was a great way to meet other people and make more friends aside from my TEAN pals. I was a short walk from campus, the grocery store, and the center of town. You are able to get anything you need without having to worry about driving. I loved the University of Otago because the campus was absolutely beautiful and the classes were structured differently than from home. Classes are usually 50 minutes long unless you are in a practical, which is like a lab. Most classes were structured as having only one or two essay assignments and one final exam making up your whole grade. This was very beneficial because it allowed for more traveling time! The campus itself offered a lot of resources, with multiple study spots, an updated library and business building, an international students’ office, and a bunch of clubs/activities to get involved in. I highly recommend studying abroad through TEAN in Dunedin, New Zealand. It has been the highlight of my undergraduate education, and I wouldn’t have changed my experience for the world.

TEAN provided a once in a lifetime experience!

September 14, 2018by: Meghan Watkins - United States

Program: Intern Abroad in Australia with WorldStrides

5

I completed a Sports Medicine internship in Perth, Australia through TEAN. After talking about my career goals and interests, my TEAN adviser provided me with my placement in Perth which was an even better experience than I imagined! I worked as a trainer with a Western Australia Football League team. I was able to gain a lot of hands on skills and knowledge. TEAN helped me throughout my whole internship with their friendly staff, by offering support, answering emails quickly and providing local excursions to explore Perth. Perth was a great city to be in, it has a relaxed and friendly atmosphere while also having an intense sports culture. I made so many friends through my internship too. Overall, TEAN provided me with an amazing internship placement and I highly recommend going through TEAN to for your internship abroad!

The experience of a lifetime!

September 12, 2018by: Ashley Larose - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Dunedin, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

The town of Dunedin is a fantastic location, surrounded by both the ocean and mountains. There are multiple buses that run within the town, the beach being only a 20 minutes bus ride away. There is also a bus that will take you to the Otago Peninsula as well as other towns on the South Island to spend the day exploring! Going around the South Island is also made easy due to the surplus in rental car options. Of you're a big hiker, there are plenty of small 1-3 hour hikes in Dunedin itself, with plenty of much larger hikes a few hours away. The hills in Dunedin give you a wonderful view of the city and the ocean, and I personally found it fun to find my flat from the top. Travelling wise, it is very easy to get around the South Island and see everything. For my spring break (we had a week) I was able to rent a campervan and travel the northern part of the South island. The common places to go are Wanaka and Queenstown, since they are about 4 hours away. Luckily, my orientation with TEAN included a week long stay in Queenstown, so I was able to spend a lot of time walking around and finding hole-in-the-wall taco places. Back in Dunedin, there were two grocery stores within walking distance of the flats where you can do your grocery shopping. What I liked about them was you could "sign out" the carts so you didn't have to carry all of your food home. You write down your address and they send someone out to pick it up later! Every Saturday they have a Farmers market with fruits and veggies, meats, cheeses, freshly made crapes, coffee, and live music. On George Street you can find tons of small cafes, Thai restaurants, pubs, or even Pita Pit if that's what you're craving. It was super easy to walk down the street and find multiple places I wanted to go into and sit down to eat. Mixed in with all of the food there is also a variety of clothing stores. No matter where you go, I heavily recommend thrift shops. The University itself was truly amazing. The Uniflats office, Uniflats being the most common international student housing option, is always readily available to answer questions or concerns that you may have with your living situation. The classes are mainly lecture based, but there are also some which include practicals and tutorials. Practicals and tutorials are a lot like labs and recitations, giving you the opportunity to work in a smaller group and ask questions. The professors were always happy to answer questions and have meetings if you had trouble with the subject they were teaching. It is common to have more than one professor for a course, as well as more than one classroom. There are multiple libraries on campus with each of them having printers that students can use. The University of Otago finals week is actually a two week period, giving you plenty of time to study and prepare for your exams. Usually, a course will only have a couple of assignments during the semester with NO exams until your final. Of course, there may be exceptions to this, but in my experience I only had to write papers during the semester. When I studied abroad in New Zealand, the TEAN staff made it a lot easier to get used to where I was and make the foreign country feel like a second home. They were always available to answer questions and provide information on not only the city I was staying in, but also the country. We were always informed of events that we could attend, either with other people from our program or on our own, and we were kept busy by everything there was to do and see. The staff not only kept contact before and during my time abroad, but also reached out afterwards to make sure that my time abroad was everything I wanted it to be. They were very committed to us and making sure that we stayed safe, and kept tabs on us to make sure that if we went on a trip during the semester that we made it back safely. They made it easy to become integrated into a new country and culture, and also helped me to use my time abroad wisely and made my experience what it was. They made it easy to be so far away from home and made sure that we had the time of our lives during our semester with them.

Best four months of my life!

September 11, 2018by: Emily Wood - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

When researching which program I should use to study abroad to Australia I looked at many different programs. I am so happy that I decided to choose TEAN. Before I applied I contacted a few of their representatives and they were extremely helpful. I also talked to students who studied abroad with them in the past and had no bad things to say. After my own experience with using this program I can honestly say that I was amazed with how helpful, organized, and dedicated their program and staff are. They truly made my experience unforgettable. Their orientation helped me become acquainted with other abroad students before school started. Also the staff made suggestions on which clubs we should join and the best places to go around the Gold Coast. Their helpful positive attitude and being able to meet others helped me feel more at home with the huge change. They set up different activities throughout the semester that I would have never had the opportunity to do without them. TEAN truly helped make my four months studying abroad the best four months of my life. Anyone traveling abroad should go through TEAN if they have the opportunity to do so.

Emily Wood video

The best decision!

September 10, 2018by: Marisa Skajewski - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Brisbane, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad through TEAN was an incredible experience. Through the orientation that TEAN organizes you are able to meet a lot of the people that will be studying at your university. This was a huge advantage because I was able to have peer support right away while across the world. The staff were very helpful in making sure we were adjusting to life in Australia. Whatever questions or problems I had while abroad they made sure to fix. It was a great opportunity going through TEAN and would recommend it to anyone.

Going on a world tour

September 09, 2018by: Chelsey Selamy - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

I recently studied abroad this past spring in Thailand and Vietnam. For me, my study abroad experience was an unforgettable experience that has definitely changed me for the better. I personally enjoyed meeting new people, learning Thai and Vietnamese, and going on cultural excursions. One thing I can definitely say about TEAN is that they have the program set up for the students so that they're getting an experience that's very enlightening. The program is set up so that students will have an experience to learn about the culture, environmental issues, how to combat the environmental issues, and most importantly, how to emerge yourself in a community. I studied in Thailand for 2 months then studied in Vietnam for 2 months and the experience was very different, but also a very enriching experience. Thailand During the last week of January, TEAN had organized a village homestay for us to participate in for a week. I had the opportunity to be assigned a host family, begin learning Thai, and getting to know my family members. I had a younger brother who I managed to love so much, play UNO with, and teach each other both of our native languages. In the village I had the opportunity of learning how to weave baskets, make desserts, and have a celebration with my host family. One of my favorite things I did was going to the rice field and planting rice because some of the parents were rice farmers so it was really cool to participate in rice planting and see how the process is done. Another activity I participated in was attending a Monk ceremony where I watched Monks chant, pass out goodies to the Monks, and join everyone in the community for a feast. Lastly, we had the opportunity to learn a few dances, practice in the village, and dress up in costume to perform for the community. In Thailand, I attended Chiang Mai University which is an extremely colossal campus that resembles campuses in rural areas in the United States. My days getting to class consisted of me taking the shuttle bus or walking if I really felt I wanted an adventure. My favorite course I took while studying in Thailand happened to be Buddhism. My professor was an individual who was extremely knowledgable on Buddhism and is also a teacher for individuals who want to become monks. He taught us how to meditate, use different meditation techniques and sound audio to enhance our experience, and took us on trips to visit temples which were gorgeous by the way. I've always wanted to learn about Buddhism and what better way to learn about Buddhism where majority of people residing here are Buddhists! He had us make comparisons between religion in Thailand and the United states as well as interview an individual to learn about what religion they identify with, how involved are they, and what they believe. He also had us keep track of a meditation journal or participate in temple ethnography as a project which really made the course worthwhile. TEAN organized a few group excursions which was very helpful to us because a lot of these places would've remained undiscovered if they hadn't. They took us to the Elephant nature park which was an incredible experience. While at the Elephant Nature Park, we learned about elephant abuse, how they rescued the elephants, and had the chance to feed the elephants as well. We also had a feast which had great options and accommodated special diets. As a group, we were always taken on dinners which I found to be very helpful because we were introduce to other parts of town and also ate at expensive restaurants which were definitely worth. Also, TEAN scheduled an optional excursion to the Phi Phi Islands which was an amazing experience altogether. Vietnam I truly enjoyed the level of independence I had while studying in Vietnam. For me, being on my own and planning things to do for myself is something extremely rewarding because I can do things on my own time. I personally enjoyed discovering things on my own, befriending locals, and trying to immerse myself as much as possible in the community. This allowed me to build strong relationships with people in Vietnam that I hope to see again one day. My time here made me realize how big this world is, how much there is to learn, and how important certain bonds will be. There's definitely a big sense of community in Vietnam and I believe this country is extremely welcoming and friendly. The people definitely made it memorable for me, but I also think my effort is what made it worth while. The motorbike food tour was an incredible experience. I have never been on a motorbike before so the experience was terrifying, but it was also worth it. I went on a five hour food tour that exposed me to popular foods, drinks, and desserts in Vietnam. This was a great way to experience numerous dishes because I think it's easy for individuals have a hard time deciding what dishes they should try. I left extremely full and satisfied with the food tour. The individuals running the food tour were very helpful, kind, and welcoming. The staff did an exceptional job of introducing me to different dishes as well as educating me more about Vietnam. One thing I can say that stood out to me was an outdoor market we went to at night which was filled with all of the fruits and vegetables you can imagine. During the tour, an associate actually cut up Guava for me to try free of charge which I thought was really sweet because this is what she does for a living. In Vietnam, I attended Hoa Sen University which resembles my home university because it's located in a city and has separate buildings. My favorite course I took while attending Hoa Sen University happened to be Gender and Development in Vietnam. Taking this course helped me learn about the gender roles in Vietnam, men and woman paying to be matched with a spouse who has all of the qualities they're looking form, and how men and women are treated in the work force. I had an amazing professor who was very knowledgable on this topic and encouraged us to think outside of the box. We participated in daily discussion and made comparisons and contrasts all of these topics to the United States. Our professor was an incredible woman who also tried to introduce us to Vietnamese culture as much as possible. She brought in seaweed, desserts, and tea for us to try which were delicious. Being abroad for five and half months has shaped me into a better individual and I can guarantee being abroad has broaden my horizons in many ways possible. I enjoyed my time in both countries and had the ability to experience how breath taking Asia is. Leaving was tough, but it's only a goodbye for now and I know I will be back one day. I can honestly say that studying abroad through TEAN was the best decision I ever made. TEAN happened to be the only program that had a unique program experience that I was looking for and I'm very happy I met with staff when they attend my study abroad fair. I signed up to be on their email list and kept receiving wonderful emails which led to me to revisit their website plenty of times. TEAN really outdid themselves with this program and I highly encourage any student looking for an extraordinary experience abroad to study abroad through TEAN.

A beautiful experience

September 07, 2018by: Claudia Davidson - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

I chose to study in Thailand because of its beautiful natural landscape and its lively yet relaxed culture. I was specifically very interested in learning about Buddhism. I could not have chosen a better program to go on. The first three weeks I took Buddhism in Southeast Asia, and the second three I took Human Rights in Southeast Asia. In between, TEAN organized an amazing Southern islands excursion for three nights, and I stayed in the islands for the rest of the week. I found that studying in Thailand is the best way to experience its culture; when you're a student, you're not only hitting the major touristy spots, and you become integrated into day-to-day life. My Buddhism course did an overnight stay in a Thai Forest Tradition temple with its resident Monk. We meditated, listened to him speak, and walked on morning Alms behind him through the local village. This field trip felt surreal, and it still does. I can't believe I got to actually experience something like that. The local TEAN staff, Nala and Lauren, are absolutely amazing. They prepared us very well: They gave us tips on cultural customs, city travel, and fun things to do on weekends. They were always available and eager to help, and you can tell they're passionate about their work. I am so happy that I decided to just do this trip. I had some reservations, as I was nervous to travel across the world for two months, but the day I arrived in Chiang Mai, any regrets went away and stayed away. I met some beautiful people (both Thai students and TEAN students) and learned a lot about myself along the way. If you are thinking about doing this program, do it!

Best decision of my life

September 06, 2018by: Grayce Hueske - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Auckland, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

Choosing to study abroad in New Zealand was the best decision of my life. TEAN provided such a great experience and made it that much better. To begin our semester they provided an amazing orientation in Queenstown with tons of activities from Milford Sound to cultural learning to free time to do whatever we wanted. TEAN gave me the chance to meet some amazing people that I am still friends with today. The University of Auckland was a challenging school with a ton of diversity, and plenty of activities/clubs to be a part of. New Zealand, overall, is such a beautiful place to call home. On the weekends we would find beautiful hikes to do, even ones close to the city. The city was beautiful too; Auckland is in a great location because you're right by both coasts & you can travel a bit inland & find tons of hiking and geothermal areas. If I could go back today, I would 100% do it! I miss New Zealand & the friends I made through TEAN with all my heart.

NZ is a dream, especially with TEAN

September 06, 2018by: Betsy Hafke - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Dunedin, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

To kick off my semester abroad in New Zealand, TEAN treated my orientation group to an amazing welcome week in Queenstown! It was a great way for all of us study abroad students to get to know each other! We adventured in Fiordland, which including a boating excursion through Milford Sound as well as a day hike near Mirror Lakes. In addition, TEAN also hosted information sessions in local, historic venues in Queenstown and helped us get acclimated to the New Zealand way of life. Once we got settled at the university, TEAN hosted a bunch of really fun catch-up events where we could all eat lunch & do an activity together. These check-ins were a really fun way to see how everyone was doing. Towards the end of our semester, TEAN hosted an emotional farewell dinner where we said our goodbyes. Going to New Zealand was an absolute dream. The places I adventured, the people I met, and the experiences I had while abroad were some of the most magical times of my life and it wouldn't have happened if it weren't for TEAN. I'm forever in debt to TEAN for helping me have the best semester of my life.

Can I go back already??

September 06, 2018by: Brooklyn Montgomery - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

My Thailand experience was unbelievable. From the classes to the culture, I could not have picked a better place to study abroad. What made the trip extra awesome was the TEAN program and staff. The program was planned perfectly, and the extra excursions provided really made the trip. Every TEAN staff member I contacted along the way was more than happy to help me with anything that I needed. Their passion and enthusiasm was evident at all times. I promise that choosing to study in Thailand through TEAN is a decision that you will not regret!!

10/10 TEAN program @ University of Otago experience!!

September 06, 2018by: Teagan Hipp - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Dunedin, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

My time spent studying abroad with the The Education Abroad Network (TEAN) at the University of Otago in Dunedin, New Zealand was truly an experience of a lifetime made possible by the TEAN Staff. I spent my week days enjoying my classes, learning about the Māori culture, and exploring everything the wonderful city of Dunedin has to offer. I spent almost every weekend camping, tramping, traveling, and taking in the beautiful country. Although studying abroad is a great way to stay on track with your education while gaining a global perspective, it is not all about studying. Explore, push yourself out of your comfort zone, become a local, and you will have an experience that you will never forget. Before I left for this adventure, someone gave me the advice to say yes to everything. At times I felt a little out of my comfort zone, but I took this advice and experienced more than I could have ever imagined. I now have friends from all over the world that I will always keep in touch with. My study abroad experience was unforgettable, and one that I will cherish forever.

Breathtaking, humbling, amazing!

August 27, 2018by: Sydney Wilson - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

4

Chiang Mai, Thailand is an amazing city with so many things to do, you'll never find yourself bored. For TEAN, I took the Buddhism in Southeast Asia course and the information that I learned in that class was so interesting to me that it made it really easy to study for and listen in class. We had the opportunity to visit several temples as a class, including an overnight stay in the district of Li in a forest temple. That stay was one of the most eye opening experiences of my life. Being able to practice meditation, which was also part of the course, in front of a 50 foot Buddha statue in this beautiful white marble temple was so humbling. I had to pause my meditation to fully take in how few people get to experience something like that. Apart from the classes, our TEAN coordinators, Lauren and Nala, had many activities planned for us, including a visit to Wat Phra Doi Suthep, a visit to the Elephant Nature Park, a visit to an artist's village, a group dinner and lunch, and a 3 day trip to the Andaman Sea, specifically Krabi. Apart from the TEAN excursions, some of the people I met and I went to Chaing Rai for the day to visit the White and Blue temples and the Black House Museum. I hiked to some waterfalls, one being the famous Sticky Falls, which is a collection of limestone faces that you can stick to and scale the waterfall like a spider monkey. I also visited at least a dozen temples, probably more. I lost count. As for food, the food was delicious and I now crave Thai food all the time here in America. My favorites were fried banana flower (exactly what it sounds like), stir fried morning glory (a string bean-like vegetable), sweet and sour chicken, cashew chicken, and Roti (a thin fried pastry filled with your choice of sweet or savory foods), specifically honey and chocolate Roti. The University itself had a gorgeous campus with plenty of things for students to use, like the cafeteria, coffee shops, a tram system, a track overlooking the mountains (makes for a nice morning run), and a library. Our classes were in the Law building, which had a coffee shop right in the lobby and with a grande latte only costing $1.75, all of us spent a lot of time there. Overall, if I had the chance to go back to Chiang Mai tomorrow, I would do it. I miss the people I was lucky enough to meet there and I miss the atmosphere and liveliness of the city.

Amazingly fulfilling!

August 25, 2018by: Pamela Mulkay - United States

Program: Intern Abroad in Australia with WorldStrides

5

I applied to TEAN's Australia Summer Internship program for summer of 2018. I interned in Cairns, Queensland for two months at Rainforestation Nature Park, Cairns Zoom and Wildlife Dome and the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary. As a biology major, working at these three parks solidified my dreams of becoming a wildlife rehabilitator. I was able to work with the animals everyday, learning everything I could from my supervisors. I am so glad that TEAN actually took my interests and future goals into consideration when looking for a placement for me; it felt so amazing to finally be able to take that first step towards my future career and help exotic animals. TEAN was always keeping in contact with me to make sure that the internship was flowing smoothly and that I was safe and content with my overall experience. Working with TEAN staff was never a hassle and they were always willing to help out if need be. I had a wonderful time interning abroad with TEAN and I recommend it 100%!

The best semester of my life!

August 23, 2018by: Tiffany Bell - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Brisbane, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Because of my experience in Australia through TEAN, I fully believe every student should study abroad at some point in their life. No matter who you are or where you are from, studying abroad changes your perspective of the world and increases your independence and confidence. TEAN did an amazing job at helping me through every single process. From the very beginning such as buying flights and getting my visa up until the very end when I returned home. Every single staff member was amazing. They were always willing to assist me whenever I needed it. Through TEAN, I was able to meet friends that I will have for the rest of my life. I loved the girls I roomed with and our apartment was incredible. Brisbane is an incredible city and I highly recommend studying at the University of Queensland. If you have any nerves or uncertainties before studying abroad I can promise you than you can trust TEAN to make every transition seamless.

I can't wait to go back!

August 22, 2018by: Alie Simmons - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Perth, Australia with WorldStrides

5

I absolutely loved this program! The professors are extremely knowledgeable and answered every question that we could think of. The program is the perfect length of 3 weeks so we were busy the entire time but still had time to have fun. I had never been out of the country before, but TEAN made it such an easy transition and organized all the events very well. We stayed in various hostels and one apartment which were all very nice. I had never stayed at a hostel before, and I was pleasantly surprised with the staff and accommodations. The areas that we traveled to were extremely beautiful and made me realize why I wanted to take this course in the first place. This is an unforgettable experience that everyone needs to try!

Worth it

July 30, 2018by: no no - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Sydney, Australia with WorldStrides

3

Great to explore and see a new culture. The academics weren't as good and will try to stick you on any small mistakes, so I would not recommend attending UNSW. The TEAN program was amazing with activities and helping you meet new people. I would travel again in a heartbeat, jut prepare before hand on what classes you want to take since its a different structure there.

Amazing abroad experience

June 26, 2018by: Lauren L'Etang - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Buenos Aires, Argentina with WorldStrides

5

I got so much more out of my semester studying in Buenos Aires because I went with ISA. From the beginning they were organized and made everything so much easier, and that continued once I was in the city as they helped us work out paperwork like our visas and medical insurance as well as giving us orientations on the city, culture, activities, and safety. The staff were like friends to us, and their knowledge and support made my experience much fuller.

WorldStrides logo
WorldStrides responded to this reviewDecember 14, 2018

Thanks so much for your review, Lauren!

Fall in Seoul

May 03, 2018by: Stephanie Chin - United States

Program: Study Abroad at Korea University with WorldStrides

5

I'd never been to Asia before, and studying abroad in Seoul, South Korea was the perfect place to start! Not only was Korea University an incredible school (both beautiful and prestigious), but Seoul itself was lively, and the perfect mix of old culture and new experiences. The combination of wildly flavorful food, natural wonders, and shopping was amazing! Plus it was easy to do weekend trips to other countries as well! TEAN made the experience so smooth by taking care of the logistics, and being great with their communication and transparency. I was able to reach out to the coordinators about anything and everything- from details about my visa and class registration, to suggestions of things to do like hikes and rice wine tasting. TEAN was also a great way to meet people, and do activities that would have been more difficult on my own, or that I would have overlooked. Overall, it was a life-changing experience!

Perfect experience

May 01, 2018by: Thomas - Australia

Program: Study Abroad in Brisbane, Australia with WorldStrides

5

There is truly nothing I would change about my experience and time abroad. TEAN made it very easy for me to fully immerse myself into the culture through t events they put on. The events helped me make life-long friends that I travelled the world with since then. There is nothing I would change about the experience.

The best five months of my life

April 29, 2018by: Marissa Cobuzio - New Zealand

Program: Study Abroad in Dunedin, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad in New Zealand is easily the best decision I have made in my college. When I finally decided to do it, I knew NZ would be the perfect place. And perfect it was! Dunedin is always bustling with activity. It has such cute coffee shops on George Street, a bunch of local beaches, and plenty of places to go out at night. I took really cool classes at UOtago including Global Marine Systems, Environmental Sociology, and Maori Society; it gave me the opportunity to learn about topics of interest but through the lens of a different culture. I also spent every weekend traveling all over the South Island doing tramping trips and sight seeing. I highly recommend Queenstown and Wanaka :) Overall though, the process of studying abroad was so smooth because TEAN helped organize all the logistics. If you're thinking about studying abroad, do it. I promise you won't be disappointed!

I wish I never left

April 22, 2018by: Michaela Tremblay - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Townsville, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Hands down best experience of my life. TEAN had everyone who went through the network meet in cairns where I met people from the states that will then be dispersed all over Australia! This made it SO easy to travel everywhere because you had a tour guide and a place to stay where ever you went! throughout the entire abroad experience TEAN made it so easy and so enjoyable constantly giving me opportunities to explore! I truly miss Australia and the people I met there everyday.

Best decision of my life

April 22, 2018by: Dani - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Melbourne, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Studying in Melbourne, Australia offered me things I never thought were possible. It gave me confidence, friends that will last a life time, amazing experiences, and a great education. I learned more than I could have ever expected. I got to travel and see things I would never see without this experience. The University of Melbourne was absolutely breath taking and had a wonderful staff. I loved each and every minute I spent throughout the city and the University.

An adventure around every corner

April 18, 2018by: Kevin Foltz - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Wellington, New Zealand

5

I could not be happier with my choice to study abroad in New Zealand. Wellington especially! Coming into my abroad experience, I knew that I wanted to explore as much of the beautiful landscape as I could, and I was not disappointed in the slightest. New Zealand is a true backpacker's dream and has supplied me with some of the most amazing landscapes I have ever seen. Some of my trips including seeing Mount Cook, hiking past Mount Doom, and also trekking across the Southern Tasmanian Coastline. It's so easy to get around a travel for cheap in New Zealand as well. Wellington itself is such a gem of a city. It is a perfect little San Francisco with a vibrant waterfront, coffee culture, and great food and craft beer. It is a very liveable city with lots of cultural events and activities. Check out the Sundays Farmer's Market, such a great time! Overall, TEAN as a study abroad aid was instrumental. They made it so easy to know exactly what was needed to be done before departure and their orientation provided a good transition into the study abroad lifestyle and definitely got some of the jitters out. We even got to go to Milford Sound! All my questions were answered promptly and accurate before and during the program. Highly reccomend TEAN and can't wait to go back to New Zealand again!

Kia Ora

April 16, 2018by: Ellie Peoples - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Wellington, New Zealand

5

I had such an amazing experience with TEAN and my amazing host country, New Zealand. TEAN was amazing and provided me with so many resources to seek out scholarships and through there resources I applied with the NZ education department and received a stipend to do social media marketing and received a letter of recommendation from them in return. TEAN provided me with an efficient and useful orientation and were incredibly reachable but they also let me personalize my abroad experience and do my own personal travel. It was nice to be able to meet all of the NZ students so that we were able to network and couch surf the country to save on travel costs. It was also really nice to be able to lean back on a TEAN advisor in my home city where she would take us out on coffee check ins, day trips to Weta workshop or Zealandia and a beautiful farewell dinner. A day has not gone by where I do not wish i was back in my flat with my amazing friends in Aotearoa.

Isthmus PeakWindy WellyTaupo

The time of my life

April 16, 2018by: Alyssa Rabade - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Dunedin, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

Study abroad wasn't always something that I wanted to do, but looking back at the five months I spent in New Zealand and how I have grown as a person because of it, I can't imagine how my life would be if I didn't go. Time passed so quickly as I was there. The nerves of the first day of travel, to the first day of classes quickly progressed to mid-semester break and then finals, and country departure. I knew that the semester was going to fly by so I had to take advantage of every opportunity that came my way, so I did. During my time in New Zealand, I visited 23 places and really pushed my limits by bungee jumping on my fourth day in the country, hiking into the mountains for breathtaking views, and then skydiving from 12,000 ft in the air. Besides the adventure, New Zealand has a lot to offer in terms of culture. To start, the local kiwis are so friendly and outgoing. The Maori culture is thriving all over the country, and being able to take a class and visit a marae, which is the meeting ground for Maori communities really allowed me to explore their culture and understand their beliefs and traditions. I had the opportunity to travel with friends from my home school and found some great friends in my program, class, and roommates. Overall, studying abroad in New Zealand was the best decision in my life. If I had the opportunity to go back, I would do it in a heartbeat. The memories I made are unforgettable and the sights are truly unimaginable. New Zealand is a country like no other, and I am proud to have called it my home for a semester.

My Shanghai experience

April 10, 2018by: Esther Kim - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Shanghai, China with WorldStrides

5

The day before my flight to Shanghai was nerve wracking and exciting; I was thrilled to experience a new culture and take on new adventures in a country that I was interested in since freshman year of college. I have always wanted to go to China. Weeks before my departure got me super thrilled due to the thought of improving my speaking skills and sightseeing. TEAN has relieved my tension through its thorough preparation and informative Orientation. I loved living in China for one semester where I made new friends and changed my perspective. Orientation Week was my favorite because I tried different Chinese foods and saw tourist attractions such as the YuYuan Garden and The Bund. My favorite meal was the revolving buffet at the top of the Pearl Tower; I tried my first cocktail! Not only has TEAN arranged a comfortable and exciting environment for all the study abroad students, but it also enabled me to rely on someone if I had any difficulties. Medusa and Lily were always available if I needed any assistance. Also, I made lots of new friends with the other students from TEAN as well as Fudan students. They have strengthened my Chinese speaking skills and have given me insights in local areas that are not known to tourists. My Chinese roommates were the best! I deeply miss all the fun times I've had in Shanghai and I can't wait to go back there soon!

My intern-matesIntern-matesInterns in China

The most wonderful time of my life

April 03, 2018by: Jenny - United States

Program: Study Abroad at Korea University with WorldStrides

5

Everyone comes back from their study abroad experience saying that it changed their life, but trust me, it honestly will, and TEAN does everything in their power to help you have the best experience possible. Being in Seoul with TEAN was something that I recommend anyone looking at their program to do. They communicate well, and always keep you in the loop. If you have any questions, they're always quick to answer them, and that made my entire semester in Seoul easy. I was able to eat, explore, and experience everything I wanted to, plus now I hope to go back soon too. You'll meet lifelong friends and TEAN will help make your experience the best that it will be. If I go back to Korea then I would go with TEAN again and again a thousand times over.

Flawless

March 26, 2018by: Ryan Sullivan - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Sydney, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad was without a doubt the best 5 months of my life. On the program side, The Education Abroad Network made me feel at home right away. All the staff took the time to get to know me, learn my name, what I was interested in, and answered all of my questions. They were always available whenever I needed them, and having them so accessible gave me peace of mind in a place that was 10,000 miles from my own home. TEAN sets itself apart by offering some of the best experiences in all of Australia. My fourth day in the country I got to go to the Great Barrier Reef, where I got to swim face to face with a sea turtle. They offered surfing lessons for me at Bondi Beach, a tour of the Sydney Opera House, and even a weekend trip to Melbourne despite studying in Sydney. TEAN gave me the most incredible experience that I could have ever asked for, however they were only a small facet of the entire trip. I don't think anyone has ever said this before, but the best part about studying abroad (on the smaller, more detailed scale) was my dorm. I lived in UNSW hall and the entire building was like our own mini college. In the US, colleges have their identities on a school wide level. At UNSW, it was on a building to building level. The "Hallers" as we were known gave me those daily stories that don't make the highlight reel for the whole trip, but rather made every day enjoyable. Whether it was going to an AFL game, the Sydney Zoo, Observatory, or our own formal, UNSW Hall made the day to day life in Sydney the best it could possibly be.

Under the sea!CowabungaHall, my home away from home

Flawless

March 26, 2018by: Ryan Sullivan - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Sydney, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad was without a doubt the best 5 months of my life. On the program side, The Education Abroad Network made me feel at home right away. All the staff took the time to get to know me, learn my name, what I was interested in, and answered all of my questions. They were always available whenever I needed them, and having them so accessible gave me peace of mind in a place that was 10,000 miles from my own home. TEAN sets itself apart by offering some of the best experiences in all of Australia. My fourth day in the country I got to go to the Great Barrier Reef, where I got to swim face to face with a sea turtle. They offered surfing lessons for me at Bondi Beach, a tour of the Sydney Opera House, and even a weekend trip to Melbourne despite studying in Sydney. TEAN gave me the most incredible experience that I could have ever asked for, however they were only a small facet of the entire trip. I don't think anyone has ever said this before, but the best part about studying abroad (on the smaller, more detailed scale) was my dorm. I lived in UNSW hall and the entire building was like our own mini college. In the US, colleges have their identities on a school wide level. At UNSW, it was on a building to building level. The "Hallers" as we were known gave me those daily stories that don't make the highlight reel for the whole trip, but rather made every day enjoyable. Whether it was going to an AFL game, the Sydney Zoo, Observatory, or our own formal, UNSW Hall made the day to day life in Sydney the best it could possibly be.

Swimming with a turtle!UNSW hall, my home away from homeSurf's up

The best experience I've ever had!

March 22, 2018by: Bonnie Rothberg - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Sydney, Australia with WorldStrides

5

There are so many things I gained from my time abroad but the most important thing I gained from my experience was independence. It takes a lot of guts to fly across the world, not knowing a single person, for 5 months and be okay. It was definitely worthwhile and I would highly recommend it. I met so many amazing people that I will now be friends with for the rest of my life. While abroad I got to travel to 3 different countries with so many of my new friends and had the time of my life doing so. I have so many valuable stories and life experiences because I chose to go abroad, and not just go abroad, but do it through TEAN!

Best semester of my life

February 07, 2018by: Lauren - United States

Program: Study Abroad at Korea University with WorldStrides

5

As probably obvious from the title, my semester abroad in Seoul was the best semester of my life. I've been wanting to go back since before I left! TEAN was extremely helpful in the months before I arrived, helping with paperwork, registration, and applications. This let me get excited for my trip without too much stress about getting everything ready! When I finally arrived in Seoul, I had the best time eating to my heart's content, exploring all around the country, and meeting so many new people who helped me work on my Korean speaking skills. The food is amazing, and so cheap! There is so much variety just around Korea University alone, and many other neighborhoods that each have a unique atmosphere. Getting around Seoul is super convenient, and the subway system is easy to navigate. Beyond Seoul, there are buses and trains (or plane for Jeju Island) that can get you wherever you want to go. There are so many possibilities for weekend trips! It was amazing to interact with locals, and to get an idea of what life is like in different cities and towns around the country. Studies are important, but for me, what was more important was making the most out of my time there, and exploring as much as I could!

Trip to Jeju

Broaden horizons

February 03, 2018by: Cayla Graner - United States

Program: Study Abroad at University of Sydney with WorldStrides

4

I was able to meet some amazing people and experience a new culture that I learned to love. I swam at the Great Barrier Reef, held a koala, scuba dived, and spent many days basking in the sun at the beach. Best semester of my life.

ISA trip to the national parkRoommates

My lovely Belgium

January 30, 2018by: Matt - Chicago

Program: Research Abroad in Leuven, Belgium with WorldStrides

5

So quaint yet not quaint at all. I fell in love with this city and everyone in it. ISA helped me every step of the way. My program advisor became one of my best friends and my host moms were caring, loving, and a joy to be around. Wouldn't change a thing.

An amazing experience in Southeast Asia

January 24, 2018by: Alexandra Craig - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

I had an amazing experience in Thailand and Cambodia with TEAN. I was able to learn a lot more about the culture and history of both countries through my time in the classroom and through my daily activities. In Thailand I was able to use the Thai that I learned in class when I bought street food for dinner. Meanwhile my Khmer lessons in Cambodia made it possible for me to communicate with my host family with more ease. I really appreciated everything that I learned because it made me feel like I had an even closer connection to both countries. I especially enjoyed the connection I made with the people that I met while I was abroad. Having a host family was one of the best experiences of my trip because I had the chance to develop a strong bond with them through different family outings, including the Water Festival that occurred over the first weekend we were in Cambodia. TEAN provided me with the opportunity to see a lot more of both countries. We were taken on excursions to Chiang Rai and Krabi, Thailand and Siem Reap, Cambodia. We also had a two week break which I used to see more of central Thailand. I really enjoyed my time with TEAN because I had a lot of freedom to explore but felt safe the whole time. Not only did I feel safe because of the location but I felt safe because I knew that the TEAN staff was there to help me. It was truly an amazing experience and I would not have changed it. I met amazing people, learned many new things and had a life-changing time in both Thailand and Cambodia.

University of Sydney TEAN experience

January 21, 2018by: Danielle Drake - United States

Program: Study Abroad at University of Sydney with WorldStrides

5

I absolutely loved my experience with TEAN in Sydney, Australia. From the moment I showed interest in the program, their staff was so helpful in answering questions and guiding me through the process. Once I landed in Australia, I enjoyed an amazing 4 day orientation in Cairns, learning all about Australian culture, participating in adventurous Australian activities, and getting to know the other kids in the program. I then flew down to Sydney were they set me up with great living accommodations in the middle of the city, with easy access to grocery stores, malls, tourist sights, school, train stations, etc. I lived with a group of other TEAN students in apartments, which was such an incredible experience. TEAN also planned many cultural events throughout the semester for all of the students to explore more of the city and country overall including a trip to Melbourne (another city in Australia), a day at Luna Park (an amusement park), jet boating in the harbor, a tour of the Sydney Opera House, and so much more! There is also a staff member assigned to each city who acts as a great resource throughout the entire semester for questions about anything from medical insurance, great restaurants, help with living issues, and so much more. Jenn was assigned to Sydney and she did such a great job of being involved the perfect amount and checking on us, while still giving us freedom to enjoy Sydney on our own. I would absolutely suggest doing the TEAN Sydney program as it was such a once in a lifetime experience and I can't thank them enough for all of their hard work!

Study abroad 2015

January 16, 2018by: Nicole Springer - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Shanghai, China with WorldStrides

5

My abroad experience was incredible I had an unforgettable experience. At first, I was really hesitant to join in different activities and talk to strangers. But the staff member working for ISA really helped me come out of my shell and join in. Once I started to become more a part of my group I was able to try things I never would've had before. After my study abroad experience I feel that I am so much more open to trying new things as well as being involved in my community.

Secondary Europe

January 09, 2018by: Margaret Blume - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Prague, Czech Republic with WorldStrides

4

This was the second time that I had been abroad in Europe, the first time was living in Zurich, Switzerland. Living in Prague, Czech Republic made me feel more down to earth when I was there. I felt that Switzerland was an amazing country but almost like a fairy tale and I learned what it cost to live in a fairy tale. Prague was filled with the enriched Eastern European lifestyle. Very held back people from deeper feelings but you could tell that they had meaning behind every move they made. A hard working and serious community made me think back to my own work ethic and how people had lived. It also made me appreciate where Prague had come from. Ultimately, it made me touch back into my European side which was free, full of great bread, a balcony, an espresso to start my day, a walk in the parks after classes, a tram ride to my street, a sophisticated drink to end my night, and always a cosmic conversation.

Berlin

China study abroad

January 09, 2018by: Nicole - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Shanghai, China with WorldStrides

5

I studied abroad with international studies abroad twice . Once for study abroad and again for an internship , both were in China . I cannot say enough about my experiences. I improved my Chinese language skills immensely while also being immersed in the Chinese culture. Along the way I made life long friends I would recommend ISA to anyone interested in studying abroad they were so helpful every step of the way.

Studying abroad with ISA in London

January 09, 2018by: Elena Conklin - United States

Program: Study Abroad in London, England with WorldStrides

5

My experience with ISA was a memorable one, to say the least. The program itself was very trustworthy and reliable. The excursions that were included in the entire program were also extremely fun and exciting. I would not have picked a better program to go to London with. The Kingston University ISA program staff were also extremely helpful and kind to me while I was there for the semester of Fall, 2015. I enjoyed every last minute of my time in Kingston Upon Thames, London, England and I cannot express in words how much I miss it and long to go back as soon as I can. When I arrived back home to the states after a semester abroad, I decided to apply to become a Global Ambassador for ISA at my home university. From the semester I arrived home until I graduated this past December 2017, I worked as a GA on campus and helped younger students with their goals to study abroad, especially ones who were interested in the ISA programs. Without a doubt, studying in London with ISA was one of the best decisions I've made in my life, hands down, and I would not have had it any other way.

Authentic experiences

January 09, 2018by: Emily - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

5

I loved my time abroad in Spain. I met so many wonderful people and I got to study in a beautiful Andalusian city. The excursions to different cities as well as the activities in Seville that the program provided really helped give students authentic cultural experiences. I cannot wait to go back and visit!

Stepping outside my comfort zone

January 09, 2018by: Amanda Reid - United States
4

I had the most incredible time in Florianopolis. I went with the intention of learning Portuguese and left with a sufficient mastery and so much more. Being a group of 9 on the program, we all became very close and the friendships I made will be life-long. I had travelled to Europe before, but this was something totally different. In Florianopolis, you are surrounded by beautiful beaches, incredible hikes, and delicious cuisine. Brazil will always hold a special place in my heart, and I would recommend it to anyone who is looking for a relatively inexpensive study abroad experience!

An internship that doesn't feel like work

January 04, 2018by: Mackenzie Wangler - United States

Program: Intern Abroad in New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

I was blessed with the opportunity to work for a boutique PR company in Auckland, New Zealand this past summer called Lily & Louis. I could not have been placed at a company that suited me better, and the work I did was actually exciting to me. I worked from 9-5 Tuesday through Friday, however, I never dreaded going. I was excited to meet more people, speak with my coworkers and my bosses, and take part in meetings where I felt like I was a part of the company. TEAN placed me with a company that allowed me to be myself and promote my own ideas, and my program advisor was always there if I needed her. I spent most of my time in the office which was perfect because it is beautifully decorated with hundreds of fashionable clothing pieces, desktop Macs for all of us to work on, a full kitchen, two separate offices for meetings (The White Room and The Black Room), and two adorable dogs that spent their days there as well (Lily and Louis). One day I was asked if I could drive, and I said, "Of course, but never on the other side of the road!" so one of my coworkers even taught me how to drive in New Zealand where we went on a mission to pick up doughnuts to decorate for a media piece we were working on. This experience was absolutely amazing, and I wish I could work here after graduation (if only NZ were closer to the US). I was able to travel to dozens of different places on my long weekends and learn and experience the work culture in what is now my favorite place in the world.

The team

The greatest decision I could have ever made

January 02, 2018by: Megan Taylor - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Melbourne, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad has changed the way I view myself, and the world. Since my trip this spring, I’ve completely changed my perspective on learning, and what it means to grow outside of my college bubble. Studying abroad has shown me to take full advantage of opportunities, for they could lead to some of the most significant and influential experiences of your life. I’ve become extremely passionate about traveling, and the importance it has on higher education. What I loved most about my time abroad was that learning didn’t stop when I left the classroom. As a member of a foreign community I learned to be independent and open minded to all the country had to offer. I believe there’s no better way to learn, than to learn by doing, and immersing myself in a completely new culture has impacted me in ways that staying home could not, and I’m very excited to share my experiences to other students. Melbourne is the perfect size for study abroad. It’s big enough to have something going on at any given time, but by the end of 5 months I could travel around the entire city and know where I’m going. There is so much culture within art and music, but also has great beaches and national parks, as well as it’s close to the Great Ocean Road and other surfing and hiking locations. It has an incredibly competitive vibe when it comes to footy, but also has an overwhelming sense of acceptance for diversity of fashion, customs, and people as a whole. Overall, studying abroad with TEAN was the greatest time of my life. I learned more about myself, other people and cultures, about how to be independent, and how travel and adventure through life this past semester. Never again will I be able to befriend 20 new strangers, and be able to travel with all of them to some of the most notable places in the world. TEAN gave me the building blocks to be successful through information sessions, housing, affiliation with the University, our RD, and so much more. Traveling to foreign country can be incredibly daunting, especially a country on the opposite side of the globe. TEAN recognizes that vulnerability and makes sure that we are completely taken care of.

Superb summer in Shanghai!

December 26, 2017by: Alex Daukaus - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Shanghai, China with WorldStrides

5

My time in Shanghai with TEAN was amazing! I was beyond thrilled to be studying abroad in Shanghai, and the overall experience is one that I will never forget. I loved the classes I took and being able to have such a large and overwhelming city at my fingertips! Shanghai has so much to offer, and I feel that I need to go back sometime soon because I miss it terribly. The courses were really interesting, and the people that I got to know through TEAN were great, and I still keep in contact with them. I have no regrets regarding my choice to go to Fudan with TEAN, and I feel obliged to continue to tell people that TEAN is one of the best study abroad companies around!

Australia, the dream you may be lucky enough to only live once

December 23, 2017by: Mary Pat Williams - United States

Program: Intern Abroad in Australia with WorldStrides

5

I had a chance to intern abroad in Australia this past summer and it was a once in a life time experience. It had always been my dream to travel there but something I never saw as realistic. Thankfully through my school, WVU and TEAN, I was given the chance to make my dreams become reality. I interned at a film company for 8 weeks and lived in Australia for 10. TEAN did a perfect job with setting me up with the perfect internship. I worked at Off the Map Productions and still keep in contact with my boss. TEAN also offered great outside activities like a rugby match and scuba diving as outside activities with the program. 10/10 recommend this experience.

The most incredible 5 months of my entire life!

December 22, 2017by: Kim Fisher - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Dunedin, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

Going abroad completely alone was nerve wracking to say the least. It was my first time out of the country for more than a week. Was I going to make friends? Was it going to be life changing like everyone says it is? Fast forward five months and I can't believe I ever questioned these things. Going abroad was the most life changing thing I have ever done for myself. I was lucky enough to travel through the TEAN program. They were so helpful when setting up flights, housing, classes, and other traveling outside of the country! During the first week we had an orientation in Queenstown, which was the most exhilarating week of my life. For 7 days I barely slept because I was constantly meeting new people, going on new adventures, and learning everything there was to know about life as a Kiwi. TEAN set up speed boats through Glenorchy, afternoons at local wineries, and dinner at some of the best spots in town. Once orientation was over and we were adjusted to life in Dunedin, they set up activities throughout the semester to catch up with everyone. We went to rugby games, explored the Otago peninsula, toured the Cadbury chocolate factory, and dined at incredible restaurants. Throughout my semester, I took full advantage of everything around me. I slept in caves on a beach with penguins, I bungy jumped, I walked on an active volcanic island, I hiked mountains, traveled to Thailand, and did so much more. My trip to Thailand was also set up through TEAN. We visited two cities and three islands during our 9 day getaway. We went to an elephant sanctuary, snorkeled, relaxed on the most beautiful beaches, and spent a night in a traditional thai village. Going abroad is the most eye opening, thrilling, and life changing experience that I wish I could return to everyday that I'm back home.

Korea University- best summer ever!

December 20, 2017by: Brianne MEsser - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Seoul, South Korea with WorldStrides

5

Deciding to study abroad in Seoul, South Korea was one of the greatest decisions I’ve made. This was my first time studying abroad, or even leaving the country, and The Education Abroad Network had an incredible program for me. While studying at Korea University, I took some required electives for my education including art. Taking a basic art class in a different country gave me a new perspective and even changed the way I saw things and thought about things, not only in art but in life too. I grew as a person and became more confident with myself as well as became much more independent. I had never been so far from my parents for that long. I met many really amazing and interesting people while I was in Korea, and everyone’s story was completely different. The schooling was so intense and challenging compared to my normal university, but it gave me a chance to experience the Korean culture even more. The nightlife was another thing I really liked about Korea because it was almost the complete opposite of where I’m from. There, it’s normal to go drink on a work night with friends or your boss. Even if you don’t drink, I definitely recommend going out with friends and seeing the different people having fun together. Seeing people crowd into the subway when it first opens at 5am is also really funny, as some people just sleep on the street. For me personally, 6 weeks wasn't enough in Korea. I had already been interested in South Korea and it was my first time abroad, so I wanted it to be shorter. If you're interested in Korea but don't know if you could spend a whole semester there or if it's your first time abroad with or without family, this is definitely a good fit for you! If you want to have an amazing time, learn about and see a unique culture, and meet amazing people, you should definitely look into going to Korea University

Korea University

Empowering and life changing!

December 14, 2017by: Sophia Maicki - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

My experience with The Education Abroad Network (TEAN) was nothing short of phenomenal. I got to interact with elephants, hike on Thailand's tallest mountain, snorkel, and live with a host family in a village, all while studying at a Thai University. The food was incredible, and the culinary options were diverse. Being in Thailand taught me patience, and to not sweat the small stuff. The Thai's have a saying "mai pen rai" meaning "no worries". While I was abroad, I learned to go with the flow and to enjoy life without expectations. I also gained a new-found sense of self confidence. In Thailand, I learned to go out and do things on my own. By the end of the trip, I was not only more confident in being a solo traveler, but also in enjoying myself without needing confirmation from others. The TEAN staff were helpful, generous, and supportive not only in the preparations leading up to my trip, but during, and even after the program had ended. They answered all of my questions, and helped me to fulfill all of my goals that I had for my study abroad experience. I would highly recommend this program to anyone.

Inside a templeBy the beachTemple

The best four months of my life

December 14, 2017by: Sarah Powner - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad is an opportunity of a lifetime. When I was in Australia, I lived two blocks from the beach, traveled all over the country in addition to Thailand and New Zealand, made friends from all over the world, and still managed to get A's in all my classes. TEAN made this experience everything it was and more for me, from the orientation in Cairns with 100 other college students, to fun local activities, to providing any guidance and information you needed along the way. They really know what they are doing, giving you enough structure but also a great amount of freedom and opportunity to make of this time what you choose. I personally loved the Gold Coast and felt right at home. From going on walks and runs on the beach nearly every morning, to the local coffee shops and restaurants below my apartment, to beautiful hikes and adventures, this place had everything. It was also easy to get around her with their public transportation system, which I used to get to school and around the area, in addition to the airport, always feeling safe and not having to worry about how I was getting places. I traveled to Sydney and Melbourne, two amazing cities that are must sees while in Australia. While I was abroad I made life long friends with many Americans from the TEAN program in addition to locals, as most of the people here were extremely friendly. During this experience, I made it a point to continue to push myself out of my comfort zone, from taking the first step to traveling internationally alone, to skydiving, scuba diving, and bungee jumping. I cannot say enough great things about TEAN and the Gold Coast, as it really was a time in my life that I wish I could relive over and over again.

Absolutely life changing

December 12, 2017by: Matt - England

Program: Study Abroad in Melbourne, Australia with WorldStrides

5

My time with TEAN honestly truly life-changing. If you are reading this review and considering studying abroad, DO IT! TEAN and RMIT offer so much it’s mind-blowing. From the start of my application to the flight back TEAN was always on my side and was always willing to help in any way possible. One thing they stand out in doing is having a TEAN advisor that will be from your host city and will always be there to help during your semester abroad. They will also host nights out at events in the city. One-night Rob, our Melbourne advisor (Still a good friend of mine!), he invited everyone out to the Melbourne International Comedy Festival. TEAN does it right and kick-starts your abroad experience with an orientation in Cairns that allows you to meet other students that are studying abroad in your host country. During orientation, they prepare you for any culture shock that you may have and teach you about your host country by taking you on an adventure of exploring the ancient Daintree Rainforest. They also give you a free day to pick between various actives such as skydiving, Whitewater rafting, and cliff jumping. RMIT offers so much in almost every field of study. From the incredible architecture to the fun classes that they offer. RMIT also offers an unbelievable orientation experience to all the international students. I was honestly surprised how organized and professional and entertaining. As a business student, the business courses are amazing. The design program they have is also incredible, they offer their students the best computers and software to use. Melbourne is truly a life-changing city. There is so much opportunity and sites to see. The city is so lively and multicultural. Everyone that I’ve ever encountered was very open and friendly to everyone. If you are thinking about studying abroad I would definitely recommend studying at RMIT in Melbourne with TEAN you would definitely not regret it.

TEAN's orientation at Daintree RainforestCity of MelbourneRMIT's Building 80

Australia will forever be in your heart

December 12, 2017by: Jessica Willis - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Townsville, Australia with WorldStrides

5

TEAN Abroad is an amazing program to study abroad with. They personally take you on an orientation before classes begin that helps you to better integrate into the culture and learn more about the country that you chose to stay. TEAN Abroad helped me decide to study marine biology in Australia and I will be returning to James Cook University for my Masters degree. No other program could make your experience abroad better! You will never want to leave Australia after traveling with TEAN.

The Best 5 Months of my Life

November 25, 2017by: Katherine Gallagher - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

TEAN has a fantastic program, and Thailand is an amazing country, so it's pretty hard to go wrong. The academics were challenging, but incredibly interesting and engaging. TEAN organized really great excursions, from day trips to a weekend at the beach, and that's one of the things that makes their program so great. Chiang Mai is an incredible city to live in, with good food and cool cafes and a fun but chill bar scene, and it's a really cool place to be a student. The travel opportunities are also abundant, and I had the opportunity to visit Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, and Malaysia throughout the semester, as well as Bangkok and the southern islands. I went camping on an island in the south, and went hiking on the tallest peak in Thailand. I am so much more adventurous and open to new things now, and I plan on returning as soon as I possibly can. The experience changed me for the better, and I had an amazing time and made amazing friends. It is so worthwhile to study abroad anywhere, but going to Asia gets you off the beaten path (study abroad-wise) and opens you up to a lot of new things that you might never experience in the same way without the immersion of going to school in a country. The orientation gives you a really fun introduction to Chiang Mai, with temple visits and an elephant sanctuary, and he village homestay throws you right in, and it's a perfect way to start the semester. Everything is so inexpensive in Chiang Mai, as well, so it's possible to do so much when your money goes as far as it does! My number one advise would be to trust your gut! If you're thinking about going to Thailand, go with TEAN, and don't be afraid even if no one you know has ever been anywhere near Asia. You have everything to gain from this experience, and it's incredible.

Releasing lanterns in the village homestayKrabi excursionElephant nature park

No Regrets

November 22, 2017by: Frederick Brown - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Shanghai, China with WorldStrides

5

Going abroad with TEAN was a decision that I will never regret in my entire life. It was the first time that I had studied abroad and I cannot imagine going abroad because of the type of experience they helped me discover. Shanghai is a special place that I now hold very near and dear to my heart even if I was only there for a short amount of time. I made friendships from around the world that I know will last a lifetime. Seeing everything in person rather than in photographs such as the Bundt, the Pearl Tower, Yu Garden, and Shanghai Disney was so surreal and I still sometimes cannot believe that I actually went there. Lastly, Fudan University deserves all the praise it has been receiving as a place for higher education. It pushed me to work better in groups, work outside my comfort zone, and to think outside the box. If these are the kind of experiences that you are looking for in a study abroad experience then TEAN is the program for you!

The Pearl Tower

Incredible semester, incredible places, and incredible people!

November 12, 2017by: Ally Cohen - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Dunedin, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

I never wanted to leave Dunedin! TEAN was an incredible resource and did a fabulous job getting us all acquainted and comfortable in our new homes. I had the greatest time of my life on this program! I absolutely loved being able to take courses with both international students and native New Zealanders, and thought the resources available on campus (especially the international students' office) were phenomenal. The "flatting" experience was one of the highlights of my whole semester -- getting to live with other international students was an amazing experience, and my fellow flatmates become some of my closest friends I made while abroad. There was no shortage of delicious food (and yummy flat whites!), which made it easy to find fun things to do with friends. Of course, I couldn't forget about the outdoor activities -- I'm a HUGE outdoors enthusiast, so Dunedin was heaven on earth to me. TEAN made it easy to find hikes and other activities to do, as well as took us to see some really beautiful places on our orientation. I felt so grateful to have these beautiful outdoor spaces made so accessible to us. TEAN also did a phenomenal job of establishing a sense of community during our time in Dunedin. Members in the program always felt easily accessible, and there was no shortage of TEAN - Dunedin events over the course of the semester, involving everything from rugby matches to cadbury hot chocolate. Overall, my time abroad was a life-changing experience, and I would recommend this program to anyone!

TEAN semester abroad in Christchurch New Zealand

November 07, 2017by: Colleen - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Christchurch, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

My experience working with staff at the TEAN program was nothing short of awesome. Everyone at this organization is so well-versed in what they do and know such specific things about each program that their ability to help students is top-notch. Studying abroad is a pretty big decision and absolutely stressful when the process first begins. However, TEAN was so helpful and answered every single question I could muster up, and managed to get me excited about this amazing experience I was about to have. I would have to say my favorite thing was having an on-sight TEAN advisor. My advisor was actually born and raised in New Zealand and attending graduate school so she was super helpful when it came to travel advice in the area, any questions I ever had about the way their universities worked there, and even just what hikes she liked or coffee shop she recommended. I haven't stopped thinking about my semester abroad since I've come home, and it's been about a year now since I started the application process. I made life-long friends, which I was honestly super nervous about at first, but it was so easy. Every single student going through TEAN that I met at orientation was so excited to be there and so adventurous and accepting; we were all in the same boat, trying to meet people and have fun, so it was so easy to make friends. My friends that I met at Lincoln University are absolutely, without a doubt, life-long friends now. Living in an international section was probably the best decision I made because I got to meet people from literally all around the world. I was traveling the incredible and beautiful country of New Zealand with American, Norweigian, Dutch, German, Swedish, and Brazilian friends. Who could have even imagines that? It was so surreal, and I wish I could relive every single second of my semester in New Zealand. I always felt like I had a safety net with in-person help from TEAN as well as over the phone and online as well. They were always there in the background which was amazing, and I was still able to explore and travel and be adventurous without being held back. Overall, I would 110% recommend this program to anyone looking to get out there and adventure a little bit; you won't regret choosing this program!!

TEAN orientation, outside of Queenstown

If you have the opportunity to study abroad, take it!

October 17, 2017by: Holly Comanse - United States

Program: Study Abroad in London, England with WorldStrides

4

Studying abroad can either be the best decision of your life or your biggest regret if you fail to take the opportunity as a college student. I loved my time abroad in London, England. Being in another English speaking country was a more seamless transition than a country that speaks another language. There were times I felt confused by the words or phrases that differ from America, but overall I didn’t have any problems. The semester layout is different but makes more sense than that in America. I learned a lot and was able to take courses specific to what I want to do with my degree, that my home university did not offer. The instructors were all familiar with study abroad programs and students and accommodated the program to fit the time schedule we were abroad. If you are able to take a semester or year abroad, do it. It will be so much more enriching than you even imagine. I required extra financial aid loans but they were worth it. Take every opportunity abroad to make your experience more worth while. Travel on weekends or attend school or program events. They are amazing! Have fun and thank me later!

The most memorable five months of my college career

October 03, 2017by: Roger Kang - United States

Program: Study Abroad at Korea University with WorldStrides

5

I’m very glad I decided to study abroad with TEAN at Korea University after exploring my options to go abroad. It was my first time abroad and both TEAN and Korea University were incredibly accommodating to the international students. It’s difficult to sum up five months worth of experiences but I can confidently say it was nothing short of incredible. During my time in South Korea I was able to explore many parts of the country, from the caves in the easternmost part of the country, to a weekend trip touring the natural parks in the southernmost part of the country. The food was an adventure in itself as I was able to experience the culture through the cuisine. The most meaningful parts of my semester were the memories created with the friends that I have made abroad. I’ll always appreciate that and I still keep in touch with them! I’m grateful to TEAN for giving me the opportunity to explore the country of my heritage while furthering my studies.

Adventures in Thailand

October 01, 2017by: Melissa Wanninger - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

Choosing The Education Abroad Network was one of the best decisions I ever made. With TEAN I never felt lost during the application process because they helped me every step of the way. From organizing my visa, flight plans, school credit transfers, and even packing advice they were just a quick email or phone call away. Through TEAN I also got to experience a homestay where I lived with a Thai family and truly immersed myself in Thai culture. We also had Thai buddies throughout the semester that took us around Chiang Mai and taught us about their traditions. There is never a dull moment in Chiang Mai since there is so much to explore! What I loved the most about Chiang Mai was that it had both scenic and cultural beauty. On the weekends, you can travel or hang out in the city and visit various museums, temples, markets, local restaurants, and hiking and outdoor activities. Our first few days in Thailand were spent at the Elephant Nature Park and the beautiful temple Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Everyone in the program was so friendly and welcoming. The professors at Chiang Mai University were also very involved in making sure we got the most out of our time in Chiang Mai in and out of the classroom. They took us on a lot of field trips to different temples and art museums. TEAN also took us to the Golden Triangle as a school trip where we visited tea plantations and opium museums. They also took us to Krabi on our Spring Break where we got to go snorkeling and have dinner on the beach. Through TEAN I was able to make a lot of friends and have many once in a lifetime experiences which I could not imagine getting in any other program. I hope to go back someday to create more lasting memories!

Life = changed!

September 28, 2017by: Nora DeMilta - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

Spending the summer in Chiang Mai Thailand was one of the best decisions I could have every made. I worked as a teaching artist and administrative assistant for the organization Arts Relief International. I was connected with them through TEAN. They were so helpful in connecting me with this internship. It was 100% the best placement for me and truly changed my life. I had the opportunity to teach art classes to underserved populations living in and around Chiang Mai and they were all so so so wonderful. I will never forget my time abroad and the lessons I learned.

Summer internship experience of a lifetime

September 24, 2017by: Deanna Longo - United States

Program: Intern Abroad in Australia with WorldStrides

5

Applying for an internship through TEAN was the best decision I could have ever made. They were extremely helpful before and during the duration of my trip, making sure I booked my flights and knew where to go once I arrived in Sydney. The TEAN staff is extremely dedicated and wants all of their students to enjoy their time and placement in Australia. I spoke with them a lot so they got to know me and knew what type of internship placement I wanted. My internship was in healthcare, and I interned at two different Sydney Children's hospitals for eight weeks. I gained so much experience working with children as well as working in a hospital setting. While abroad, I lived in a newly renovated apartment that was extremely nice. TEAN was always there to answer any questions or concerns I had about my internship or Australia in general. On the weekends, I did activities from taking a surfing lesson at Bondi beach to attending a rugby game. I as well traveled to the Gold Coast, Melbourne, and Cairns (Great Barrier Reef). I loved how in addition to strengthening my resume I also got to learn about Australia's culture by traveling and exploring. Interning abroad was an amazing experience and something I will truly never forget. I highly recommend everyone strongly considers interning in Sydney, Australia.

The Gold Coast is the Best Coast

September 19, 2017by: Nick Gendron - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Going abroad was easily the best decision I have made in my life. Deciding on a program was tough but once I discovered TEAN through my university, the rest of the process was simple. One of the main reasons I decided to choose Griffith University in the Gold Coast was because of its unique campus look and also the variety of courses it offers. While I was living in Gold Coast, I was able to visit many of its scenic hikes and close by beaches including Coolangatta and Byron Bay. My biggest tip to students interested in studying abroad would be to go with your gut and do what you want to do. There were many times that I hesitated on doing something because no one else was doing it, but being abroad is a time for you to be independent and search for things you are interested in. I was fortunate enough to also take the community internship course that Griffith University offers which easily set me up with an organization suited to my field of study. Having an internship abroad was an opportunity that many students do not get to experience, so if you have the chance to do it, go for it! I would also advise students to start budgeting their money as soon as they arrive in their host city. I thought it was going to be easy but after booking trips and spending money on food and drinks, I realized that budgeting was going to become my main priority in order to have enough money for the rest of my time abroad. If you do have time, I would suggest traveling to Thailand and the south island of New Zealand. I was able to visit both of those places and cannot wait to go back to them. The experience I had and the people I met along my journey will never be forgotten and I really hope that other students get to enjoy the same experience as I did.

Feeding Kangaroos!Surfs Up!Sailing the Islands of Thailand

Stirling Experience and Mike

September 18, 2017by: Jamie Dale - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Stirling, Scotland with WorldStrides

5

Being in Scotland and learning about its rich history was an experienced to be unmatched, especially with our Resident Director, Mike Kurtyka. He went above and beyond to ensure every single student in his care could make the most of their experience and knew an incredible amount of each place we visited.

Taking in Thailand

September 14, 2017by: M - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

I chose to study abroad in Chiang Mai, Thailand for three weeks and am very happy I did so! Chiang Mai is such a fun and lively place that's also wonderfully located near mountains! I love the outdoors and felt very content in Chiang Mai with plenty of opportunities to hike and search for waterfalls. Traveling across the world can seem intimidating but is completely worth it and the program I chose definitely helped! TEAN answered all my questions and helped to thoroughly prepare me to take on this adventure. From packing to cultural tips I felt fully supported by TEAN staff and was able to have a blast with my fellow TEAN program students. I took a SouthEast Asian Art History class and was able to learn a ton about Thai art and culture through that. We went on field trips and presented on art we visited which made learning that much more interesting. One of the best part of the trip was when TEAN sent us to the Elephant Nature Park! I am forever grateful for my study abroad experience and have gained a whole new confidence in myself after doing so. If you're interested in taking a trip, wherever it may be, look TEAN up!

Meeting this beautiful girl

Once in a lifetime experience at Korea university

September 13, 2017by: Mitch Brown - United States

Program: Study Abroad at Korea University with WorldStrides

5

I absolutely loved South Korea and my experience working with TEAN. TEAN helped me organize everything I needed for my trip abroad as well as gave helpful tips on how to adapt to Korean culture. I've been interested in Korean culture and customs for a while prior to applying to this program and when I found out TEAN had a semester program for Seoul my mind was made up. Korea University is a vibrant campus that is welcoming to all it's students both local and international. I was set up with a group called KUBA (Korea University Buddy Assistants) along with other international students and they made me feel right at home. We went on trips and did fun activities within Seoul every weekend. We ate dinners and lunches together which made me feel as if we were one big family. I made so many life-long friends in this group. Seoul itself is an amazingly beautiful city with never ending activities going on. It's a mix of tradition and highly advanced technology. It is built on convenience especially when it comes to public transportation (best subway/bus system ever!). I made so many great memories in South Korea and leaving was honestly one of the hardest tasks I've had to do. I definitely plan on going back. It's all thanks to TEAN for giving me this wonderful opportunity and allowing me to experience a place I only dreamed of going to!

Life changing!

September 13, 2017by: Gabriella0221 - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

The Education Abroad Network is a great program to work with when considering study abroad options! The moment I applied for the Australian program TEAN had someone in constant contact with me to help plan out every detail and requirement needed for me to leave to Australia and return home safely. They also provided an amazing weeklong orientation in Cairns that really helped me adjust from being so far away from home. In addition, they provided awesome housing in a beautiful location, helped me plan classes to ensure I wouldn’t be behind when I returned home, planned additional trips such as a week long trip to Melbourne, and always had someone available for us to be in contact with for any questions or issues. TEAN really helped make my experience abroad an incredible one and if I could I would do it all over again!

Living in a dream

September 12, 2017by: Ally Darrow - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Dunedin, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

I absolutely loved every moment of my study abroad experience through TEAN. They were extremely helpful before and during my trip. Our orientation was packed with adventure and interesting lessons on the culture/history of New Zealand. By the time we arrived in Dunedin, our group already felt like a small family. Dunedin is extremely beautiful with new adventures around every corner (hikes, art galleries, farmers market, beaches). Dunedin was also a great base for traveling to other areas on the South Island. My friends and I had the opportunity to explore new parts of the island on the weekends and during our break. I've already recommended TEAN and the University of Otago to several friends!

Aus is awesome

September 09, 2017by: Caroline Grady - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Brisbane, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Australia is a great place to study abroad; you will have so much fun, learn a lot, and grow from your travels. Brisbane specifically is a lovely city. The third largest in Australia, Brisbane is not overwhelming and it is easy to get around. I enjoyed the city for it's abundance of entertainment, quirky cafés and restaurants, and friendly, laid back inhabitants. There is a man-made beach near the central business district and you can kayak on the famous Brisbane river. There is a large shopping center as well and a free art museum! Night life is amazing too--be sure to check out the Valley. Brisbane truly has endless entertainment. The University of Queensland is a terrific school--I enjoyed all of my classes and learned a lot about Australian Aboriginal culture and the Australian environment. Campus is beautiful and you will see new faces every day. You can sit on the quad and study, or just people watch. TEAN is an incredible program. They really supported students in transitioning to living abroad and helped us feel like locals through the cultural events they chose for us, such as a Brisbane Broncos rugby game. Orientation was amazing--you get to snorkel in the Great Barrier Reef and wake up to views of mountains and palm trees. TEAN supports you every step of the way--from planning to go abroad and being abroad.

This is your "something different"

September 05, 2017by: Olivia Talbot - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

The first question we were asked when we got to Chiang Mai was "Why did you choose Thailand?" and EVERYONE'S answer was "Because I wanted something different." You don't realize how much "wanting something different" will positively impact your life until you leave Thailand. The cultural immersion you experience gives you this insight into Southeast Asia that leaves you more passionate and curious about the rest of the world. You grow as a person even though you don't realize you're doing it. There is something so special about Thailand that consumes you even after you leave. I find myself looking back on photos every.day. wishing I was in your place looking for abroad programs and picking TEAN again. With TEAN you get a real study abroad experience. The whole point of studying abroad is to immerse yourself into a culture different than your own and TEAN Thailand does this...perfectly. The hardest part about studying abroad is leaving and I'd give ANYTHING to start my semester again. I learned this little piece of advice from a girl I met on my flight to Thailand, who just so happened to be 2015 TEAN Alumni who was moving back to Southeast Asia because she couldn't get enough. TEAN Thailand IS study abroad and I wish everyone could have the opportunity to go on this adventure.

Krabi, TEAN WeekendMy face when someone says ThailandCan't wait to experience this moment again

When can I return

September 04, 2017by: Katie Cunningham - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Perth, Australia with WorldStrides

5

When I look back on my life choices so far, choosing to study abroad with TEAN in Wollongong will be one of the best I have ever made. This program had the perfect balance of adventure and education; within the first week we had an amazing lecture on what to expect in Australia( along with a fantastic Aussie lingo course) and got to dive the Great barrier reef and explore the rainforest. When I lived in Wollongong for the semester, the TEAN staff organized great events and loved hearing about the trips we were doing on our own. They provided me with a stable support system I knew I could contact if I needed help or just some travel advice. The program in Wollongong has opened so many new doors for me, it allowed me to become more confident in my field of studies and more adventurous as a person. If you're looking for the semester of a lifetime filled to the brim with adventure, this is the program for you.

An eye opening experience

September 04, 2017by: Jenna - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Besides flying 5,000 miles across the world to experience a new country, I did not know what I was truly in for when choosing to study abroad in Australia. Before departing, I was hesitant and unsure if I made the right decision, but immediately when I landed and got in touch with TEAN staff and others in my program, I knew for sure that I had a purpose here. Traveling to a new country by yourself is quite nerve racking, however, TEAN did a wonderful job of making sure I completed all the required steps to get me abroad. They answered any questions or concerns I had, were always available via email or phone, and they went out of their way to help. The staff were very organized and set up a great orientation that introduced everyone to Australia and let us feel more at ease with what we would be experiencing in the upcoming months. In my host city, I felt right at home. My housing accommodation could not have been more perfect and the surrounding location was gorgeous. Adjusting to a new schooling system was not so bad. It was refreshing to be on a larger campus with big lecture halls and smaller tutorials. The professors still made an effort to meet despite the amount of students they had. Griffith provided fun events, fairs, de-stress weeks, and more throughout the semester that helped me to feel more integrated in their community. If I had the chance, I would spend a few more years there to finish my degree. I enjoy that there was a range of academic programs to take courses from, some I would never get to take back at my home university. The Gold Coast in general is a wonderful area. It is not too big of a city and not too small of a beach town. There is always something to do whether it be hiking, surfing, swimming, shopping, strolling in a park, or simply eating your way through Australia. It is very activity based but also has a relaxing vibe too. The endless beaches are beautiful with miles and miles of white sand and turquoise waters a short distance away. I never got bored during my time there. Australia has so much to offer. No matter where you choose to study, just go and do it. Immerse yourself in the country of your choosing and be open to try new things. I promise you will not be disappointed!

A Stirling Scottish program

August 16, 2017by: Caroline - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Stirling, Scotland with WorldStrides

5

Stirling is an excellent program for anyone seeking to experience non-tourist Scotland. Its central location permits you to travel often, and it's not as touristy or busy as Edinburgh or Glasgow. The academics are mild but interesting and the campus is quite nice. There is easy access to the Ochil Hills and Hermitage Woods for hiking or jogging during the day, and the town is only a short bus ride away. I'd definitely recommend going.

An American immersed in Scottish culture

August 16, 2017by: Andie Parnell - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Stirling, Scotland with WorldStrides

5

Stirling, Scotland proved to be a perfect central location for travel and culture as an American student and intern. During my time here I was able to adjust to the community easily and adventure outside the university and Stirling in my free time. Overall the size, friendly people and location of Stirling made for an amazing abroad experience!

Awesome

August 10, 2017by: Delaney Behrendt - Italy

Program: Study Abroad in Stirling, Scotland with WorldStrides

5

Had an amazing time during my study abroad, had no issues or concerns that couldn't be fixed by ISA. Mike was great as well and gave great tips on what there was to do around Scotland. He had a lot of knowledge on the country and it was nice learning from him things that we didn't learn from the locals or during our classes.

Student

June 30, 2017by: Gabby Galarza - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Glasgow, Scotland with WorldStrides

4

It was amazing. I had a great time and learned a lot. Everything that ISA did was so helpful and they really prepared me for my journey. I was able to travel all across Europe, met so many interesting people and saw beautiful views.

Perfect Parisian experience

June 13, 2017by: Josie Lucero - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Paris, France with WorldStrides

4

ISA Paris offers so many great opportunities for first-time study abroad students. The on-site & off-site staff are always helpful and provide a great information on everything from academics to the best cultural experience through out Paris. The staff is also super helpful when it comes to advise about extra-curricular traveling outside of Paris. Housing options are excellent; ranging in everything from private housing to living with a host family. ISA Paris is associated with three distinguished universities in Paris: the Sorbonne, Institut de Catholique de Paris, the American Business of Paris. However one of my favorite part of ISA was the cultural immersion. ISA Paris offers students so many opportunities to experience cultural excursions in Paris, other regions of France, and even to the francophone country of Morocco! I participated in the Morocco excursion in the fall of 2014, and I have to say it was one of the most memorable parts of time studying abroad.

Unforgettable time-made me move back!

June 07, 2017by: Izzy Sandoval - Australia

Program: Study Abroad in Melbourne, Australia with WorldStrides

5

I am so grateful to have spent a semester in Melbourne. It has become my favourite city in the world, and is the reason now I am back in Australia in hopes of living here long term. Melbourne is an amazing city with an artistic plethora of activities and neighbourhoods to wander around. I made some of the most amazing friends of my life in Melbourne and in the program as well. The University is beautiful and the professors are very approachable despite the large class sizes. I will always regard this experience as the best thing I ever chose to do in my college career. Thank you TEAN!

The Best 5 Months of My Life!

May 31, 2017by: Haleigh

Program: Study Abroad at University of Sydney with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad in Sydney was definitely one of the best decisions I ever made! There's so much to do in and around the city and by going through TEAN I was given so many more opportunities to learn about the city and to interact with locals. I attended the University of Sydney so I lived near Central Station, pretty much in the middle of the city. This location was so awesome for me because there was so much around my apartment and I was only a walk to my classes and a short train or bus ride away from everything else. Being in this part of Sydney was really cool because it gave you that big city feel but you were also close to Bondi Beach, Coogee, Manly and several other beaches so that the city itself didn't become too overwhelming. In my free time, I loved going to all the beaches, eating at some amazing places (Harry's in Bondi is delicious), taking the ferry to Manly Beach- they had pretty good shopping over there, and all around exploring the city. Some of the must-do's of Sydney include the Opera House of course, Bondi to Coogee walk, the Harbour Bridge Climb, Taronga Zoo, Luna Park, Bondi Icebergs Pool, the weekend markets in The Rocks, the Figure 8 pools - harder to get out to but if you can do it, I definitely recommend. If you're into museums Sydney also has a plethora of different types for you to choose from. I also got the opportunity to go see a concert in the Sydney Olympic Park which was a really cool experience in itself. But, without TEAN I wouldn't have been able to do some of the awesome things that I did. They took us surfing at Bondi Beach, to a show at the Opera House, kayaking in the Sydney Harbour amongst other things. They're so awesome about giving unique opportunities that I don't think I would have otherwise been able to do. What I also loved about my experience with TEAN is that at orientation I not only met the people who would be in my city, I also met people who'd be studying at universities all over Australia which gave me tons of people to see and places to stay when traveling! In terms of nightlife, Sydney has so many different types of clubs and bars to choose from. Ivy is probably one of the most well-known clubs, it even has a rooftop pool. The Argyle in The Rocks is also really fun and afterward stop and get some pancakes in the Rocks. Darling Harbour is great both during the day and at night boasting tons of restaurants, bars, and clubs. Coogee Pavilion is also great for happy hour.

Bondi Icebergs PoolOpera House

University of Newcastle- TEAN ABROAD

May 23, 2017by: Kendra McCormick - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Newcastle, Australia with WorldStrides

4

I was at first very hesitant to travel and live over 16,000 miles away from home, but I am so incredibly happy I did. From Orientation with TEAN at the Great Barrier Reef to meeting and studying with the locals, I would not change my experience if I could. The TEAN staff made it helpful to ease into the new culture of Australia. They also were very prompt in answering phone calls and emails if you had a question, while abroad.

Absorb

May 10, 2017by: Molly Murphy - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Glasgow, Scotland with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad is amazing and so is Glasgow. Its completely a hidden treasure and ISA does a good job of making you feel like you have support. If nothing else, you get to see Edinburgh, Stirling and the Highlands. If you get the chance to explore Europe, do it! Its worth it! I had an impeccable time here.

Living life

May 08, 2017by: Sophia - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Perth, Australia with WorldStrides

5

I had such a good experience abroad. I am pretty sure everyone says that, but it was a big life changing moment for me. It opened up my eyes to the world and to myself. It really made me get a different perspective on situations and I feel as if I am living a better and healthier lifestyle because of it.

Summer abroad

April 12, 2017by: Stephanie Fallon - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Stirling, Scotland with WorldStrides

5

I attended the Stirling International Summer School during this past summer in 2016. I was there for two months, for the Summer 1 Block and the Summer 2 Block. I attended all of the excursions planned by ISA as well as by the University of Stirling's ISS. The housing was incredible! We stayed in Beech Court, with the traditional flat style with varying residents per flat, and everyone got their own individual bathroom! Mike Kurtyka our program director was stellar! He was so helpful and planned so many events for us - I felt lucky to be able to depend on him! Classes were great, the school week was from Monday-Wednesday. I absolutely LOVED my experience traveling through ISA and being able to attend the University of Stirling. Definitely recommend Stirling and ISA!

wowzers-- that hashtag "#best4monthsbond" was true

April 09, 2017by: Mike Morra - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Hi, I'm Mike. I studied abroad through The Education Abroad Network (TEAN) at Bond University, during the Spring of my sophomore year in college (Spring 2015). I had always dreamed of going to Australia and the experience was beyond all of my expectations. As I began to pursue and research my interests in studying abroad, I picked up the phone and called TEAN. I was greeted by the amazing staff member that were extremely willing to answer any and all questions I had. Even when I asked some of the same questions over and over again, I was always supported by TEAN's passion-driven staff. TEAN afforded me opportunities that I cannot begin to repay and truly allowed me to have the best experience possible, while at Bond and in Australia (AND the post-semester Fiji excursion-- what a dream). Here's one of my favorite photos from the trip, with some fellow TEAN friends. We were cool as hell, or at least thought we were.

A whole new world

April 05, 2017by: Madeline Kenny - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Having never traveled before, I was immensely thrilled to live pretty much as far away from home as possible. Despite Australia being an English speaking country, I found myself immersed into a culture much different than our own in the U.S. Everything from the food and classes to the people to the sand on the beach was slightly different than anything I had ever seen. With my newfound freedom mixed with the thrill of a new life made for the best experience I could've asked for.

Study abroad 2016: My favorite summer

March 27, 2017by: TJ Giller - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Stirling, Scotland with WorldStrides

5

Amazing program with amazing people! I really became connected with the culture and stepped out of my comfort zone while being in Scotland. Truly an incredible experience and would definitely come back in a heart beat!

Study abroad Bond University, Gold Coast

March 22, 2017by: Julie Connell - United Kingdom

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad at Bond University in Gold Coast, Australia was 100% the best experience I could have asked for. The Education Abroad Network made studying abroad easy, and created the best possible arrangements for students. Gold Coast has a lot to offer, including great hiking spots, amazing beaches and fun, live night life! Bond University has a beautiful campus and small classes. The beach housing was a fantastic option, with amazing views and access to the beaches and night life!

Uni Glasgow Fall 2015

March 09, 2017by: Jenny Barnard - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Glasgow, Scotland with WorldStrides

5

Highly recommend this program in Glasgow! Having a program director available was helpful when trying to sort through necessary paperwork and deadlines during my stay. Also having a home base to meet up with other ISA students and go on tours together was a plus. Would definitely study abroad again if I didn't already graduate from college!

Take me back!

February 23, 2017by: Laura - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Dunedin, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

My time in Dunedin was one of the best of my life. I cannot express the happiness and growth I experienced while there. It was a perfect home-base to travel to others, it was a cute little college town, and the people were kind and helpful. Not only was Dunedin incredible, but TEAN was there through it all. The application process was made easier with them, and we had a point of contact in our actual city to turn to if we ever needed anything at all. I left my heart in New Zealand, and one day I will go back!

Glasgow academic year

February 14, 2017by: Laura Dorsch - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Glasgow, Scotland with WorldStrides

5

This program was excellent. I had plenty of guidance but also the opportunity to figure things out on my own. The regional director was always available and more than willing than help. I learned and experienced more than I ever thought possible, and I can't wait to go back!

Take me back!

February 10, 2017by: Kathryn Church - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Brisbane, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad was a decision I knew I wanted to do for a long time, and TEAN was the program that helped me get the best out of my abroad situation. Studying in Brisbane was a great decision, because Brisbane is a large city with a small town feel, where you can spend the whole day window shopping in expensive stores, or spend the whole day in coffee shops drinking unique delicious lattes. Attending the University of Queensland was an amazing experience with incredible professors. TEAN was an amazing resource and great support with me all the steps of the way through my academic and social study abroad experience.

A change of place; a change of pace

February 09, 2017by: Erika Penrose - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

If you're looking for the perfect combination of beach and city, adventure and relaxation, meeting people and making friends, the Gold Coast is the place for you. If you're looking to go to the Gold Coast, or Australia in general, the hands-down best option is TEAN. There was never a moment abroad where I had to worry about making sure I had everything in order, because TEAN made sure of all of that for me. From the moment I touched down to the moment I left for home five months later, TEAN staff was right there, answering questions and planning excursions. They do a fantastic job making sure you have the freedom to do whatever you want and the local knowledge to make that happen. I couldn't have asked for a better program, nor a better place. The Gold Coast is one of the friendliest places in Australia, with beautiful beaches to relax on, plenty of hiking in the rainforest, and a downtown that always has something going on and never gets old. I can honestly say my time here were some of the best months of my life, and my only mission now is to try and get everyone to experience life on the other side of the world.

going to the beach!nature's swimming poolmy kangaroo friend

Heart in the mountains

February 08, 2017by: Kelli Liebermann - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Dunedin, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

TEAN led me to the experience of an absolute lifetime. My time in New Zealand was more than I could have ever imagined, and I credit TEAN for setting me up with the friends and resources I needed to excel. After having an action-packed orientation with 35 other studying abroad students, I felt that I was moving into my new home with a great group of friends already. I kept these friends for the duration of the semester, roadtripping around and bungee jumping and hiking, and I am also confident that these are friendships I will hold for years to come. My TEAN contact in Dunedin met us for coffee dates, dinner, and was always available when we needed her expertise. TEAN encouraged our independence and sense of adventure but also made sure we were always prepared enough to have an enjoyable time. I could not be happier with choosing to study abroad though TEAN, and I will be forever grateful for the memories they led me to.

highland

A decision you won't regret

February 06, 2017by: Greg Camillone - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad in Gold Coast, Australia through TEAN was one of the best decisions I've ever made. It was life changing in all positive ways. TEAN does an excellent job of setting up excursions and activities for their program participants. In addition, they are approachable and easy to contact if you ever need help or looking for suggestions. Australia is full of beautiful places and welcoming people. You'll witness cool animals like kangaroos and koalas and experience iconic Australian monuments like the Sydney Opera House and the Q1 Skypoint Building.

Queensland

Stirling summer 2016

February 04, 2017by: Diane Hasting - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Stirling, Scotland with WorldStrides

5

This program is absolutely a must-do! My study abroad experience in Stirling was definitely one of the best experiences of my life. Stirling is the perfect location- close enough to both Edinburgh and Glasgow for day trips and also to the Highlands! Stirling itself is a smaller, quaint town but has everything you would need and more! There are many restaurants for going out to eat, a shopping mall, the Stirling Castle, other sight seeing destinations, with very friendly people. Every time I went into town I discovered some place new! The University is small but beautiful, with many things to do during the day- walk around the loch, hike to the top of Dumyat, take a bus into town and explore Stirling- never a dull moment! The classes were small and had great excursions that emerged the students deeper into the Scottish culture. The dorm rooms we stayed in were updated and very comfortable- with a shared kitchen and your own private room and bathroom. And Mike the program director is super helpful with anything you need! He also plans a few of his own day excursions for the ISA group! Stirling became a second home to me and I couldn't recommend it enough to anyone thinking of going!!

Overlooking Stirling from halfway up Dumyat

The wizard of oz-tralia

February 04, 2017by: Sebastian Estores - United States

Program: Study Abroad at University of Sydney with WorldStrides

5

My semester at ICMS was one of the greatest experiences of my life. TEAN helped me organize this trip almost a year in advance. Despite making them jump through hoops and almost cancelling at the last minute, they were patient with me and did all they could to make things work out. TEAN is there for you from the moment you arrive at the airport. While other students were shelling out $110+ on a taxi ride to the school, I got to enjoy my own driver who gave me an introduction to the country. From here I strongly recommend you to take part in whatever excursions TEAN puts together. They will help you to immerse yourself and meet a lot of great people. I would strongly advocate visiting Australia. However, if it's not your first choice TEAN has many options available in other countries that are sure to be just as enriching. If you decide to take step on this journey I have no doubt you can gain a lot from it. Personal growth, international connections, and the coolest Instagram of all your friends. Thanks for everything. It's hard to believe it has been two months since this epic adventure came to an end.

my skydiving faceeveryday sceneryKangaskhan the kangaroo

Best time of my life

February 04, 2017by: Emily Manteufel - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Brisbane, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad in Australia was by far the best decision I ever made. I made so many local friends and I learned so much about Australia. I was able to do so many things that I never thought I would do(climbing a mountain). I would return to Australia in a heartbeat if given the opportunity. I absolutely loved UQ, although the academics was challenging I learned way more than I ever thought possible. The program TEAN, was there for me every step of the way. They answered any questions I had before, during and after my exchange. Furthermore, they arranged events for us to attend such as a Rugby game and the Steve Irwin Australia zoo, both which were absolutely amazing. I would definitely recommend TEAN to anyone!

An unbelievable journey

February 04, 2017by: Drake Meurant - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Auckland, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

Waiting in the airport was a strange feeling for me. I had just said goodbye to my friends and family for five months, but I was overcome with excitement. I knew the coming months would be an incredible journey, but I couldn't even imagine just how great they would be. As I sat there, waiting to board the plane, it was the most anxious and nervous I have ever felt. But I would give anything to go back to that exact moment. I can't even describe what that feeling was like. I had spent so much time getting ready for that semester abroad that it didn't even feel real at that point. It was the most vivid and amazing dream I've ever had, and the rest is history, as they say. I can still remember the exact moment I decided on this program. I had been meeting with my school's study abroad office and I was trying to decide where I wanted to study. There were so many options to choose from that it was a little overwhelming. I was scrolling through Instagram one day, and I saw a picture of a place in New Zealand called Cathedral Cove. I was mesmerized by the picture, and knew right then that New Zealand was where I wanted to go. A few weeks into my semester abroad, my friends and I all rented a car and took a road trip to Cathedral Cove on my birthday. As I stood there looking at the same view I saw in that picture, all I could do was smile. This is a pretty bold statement, but I think that was the happiest moment of my life. It was so simple but I've never felt pure joy like that. Being there on my birthday, with all these new friends, knowing that I was accomplishing my dreams was a feeling I'll never be able to accurately put in writing.

Cathedral Cove

Stirling spring 2016

February 03, 2017by: Erin Morton - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Stirling, Scotland with WorldStrides

5

This program was an awesome experience! The process was incredibly easy to follow, and the staff at ISA were very helpful with pretty much anything you needed, especially the resident director. Not only was Scotland itself amazingly beautiful and full of all the hiking and scenery you could ever want, it was also very close to the mainland for weekend trips to Prague/Budapest/Spain, whatever strikes your fancy! 10/10 would recommend.

Summer in Stirling

February 03, 2017by: Lacey White - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Stirling, Scotland with WorldStrides

5

This program was excellently organized and contained every aspect of Scotland that I would hope to see and experience. The help on site was fantastic and worked extensively to make sure everything was always running smoothly. Best experience of my life!

AUT: giving us the opportunity to explore

February 03, 2017by: Cody McInnis - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Auckland, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

AUT was the perfect school for me to say the least. I come from a small town in New Hampshire, so being plunged into a bustling city with a student population of 27,000, I can't say with certainty that I was entirely prepared... Living in the Wellesley Student Apartments was ideal. I lived with 4 other students from Brazil, China, China and San Diego. The cultural experience I had within my room were enough to satisfy my wanderlust. The apartments were also populated with students from every corner of the world. Cooking was made easy with a kitchen in the room. Living was comfortable with two bathrooms, a living room, and single-rooms. The food options were just behind limitless with the city at your fingertips. I tried so many diverse foods. The city housed hundreds of bars, clubs and restaurants - certainly enough to explore one or two a weekend! The work load was never overbearing, so my friends had no time renting a car and exploring on 3-day excursions. The academics were challenging, but class-size was just like home - around 30 students depending on the course. New Zealand as a whole should be on the top of the list for any explorer at heart. Without trying, the country will take your breath away. Mountains, rolling green hills, farmlands, cliffs, black-sand and hot-water beaches, bubbling mud pits and blue skies made for an incredibly picturesque time abroad. And of course it goes without saying that the Maori people are some of the most in-touch and genuine people you may meet. Put New Zealand on the top of your list and STUDY ABROAD!

mountain rangewhite water raftingCody in New Zealand

Best month of my life!

February 02, 2017by: Kenny - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Stirling, Scotland with WorldStrides

5

I signed up for the Stirling summer program and spent my month exploring Scotland, taking in the sights, and making new friends who were both fellow students and locals alike. While you can certainly expect to spend a good amount of time in class and working on assignments (although the exact amount seems to depend on the courses), you will spend way more experiencing everything Stirling has to offer. Everything from the local shops and cuisines, to friendly pubs and historical sites, there's something for everyone. And if Stirling isn't enough, there are multiple excursions that take you all over Scotland. Glasgow, Edinburgh, Loch Ness, St. Andrews, and more are waiting to be seen. All of the ISA staff were friendly and helpful as well, introducing students to the new culture and doing everything to ease us in. I felt at home in no time at all. If you're considering this program but have any doubts, I urge you to take the opportunity. Going abroad can feel intimidating, I know, but this was definitely a month that I already look back on with nostalgia, despite only half a year having passed at the time of this writing. I will never forget the experience, and hope I can one day visit Stirling again.

Stirling as seen from the top of William Wallace Monument

Amazing summer in Scotland!

February 02, 2017by: Maggie Fancher - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Stirling, Scotland with WorldStrides

5

I had an incredible time with my ISA Program in Stirling, Scotland! Not only were the classes small and inclusive, but the campus is beautiful and provides great access to resources and the rest of the city. Mike was a great program director that gave us plenty of support and insight, but also let us explore and enjoy the cities on our own. The excursions were enjoyable and allowed us to see many different areas of Scotland. Amazing program, and I would highly recommend it to anyone!

University of Stirling campus

Austin's review

February 02, 2017by: Austin McCrory - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Stirling, Scotland with WorldStrides

5

Awesome program! Lots of fun and the classes were great. Excursions we're exciting and educational. Mike the program director was super helpful and the immersion into Scottish culture was great. Did not have a day to be bored.

Amazing!

February 02, 2017by: April Harrington - United States

Program: Study Abroad at University of Sydney with WorldStrides

5

Thanks to TEAN, I had the most incredible time abroad. It all started out with orientation in the beautiful city of Cairns, where I met my best friends, the incredible staff, and set out on a journey that would impact my life forever. Each day in Sydney brought a new adventure and each week brought a new cultural experience. From the temples of Thailand to the beaches of Bali and back to the bustle of Sydney center, I can't explain how much study abroad shaped how I am today. I am more confident, independent, and happier than I have ever been. Again, thanks to TEAN, my experience is one I will never forget.

Koh Phangang, ThailandSydney, Australia

Still Dreaming of Aus...

February 02, 2017by: Rebecca Taylor - United States

Program: Study Abroad at University of Sydney with WorldStrides

5

When you’ve been home for over 3 months and you still can’t go a day without thinking of Australia – you know it was an experience worthwhile. Not only do I miss weekend trips to one of the many beaches that surround Sydney, but even my classes at UNDS that introduced diverse ideas and pushed my own thinking. Living in the central part of Sydney’s city offered the best of both worlds – experiencing the fast-pace, exciting city life, while at the same time being able to hop on the train or bus to visit the more scenic areas of Sydney like Sydney’s Royal National Park or Blue Mountains. While I was able to navigate my way through Australia on various adventures, choosing TEAN offered a wider variety of immersions that demonstrated the heart of Australian culture.

Snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef!

The best four months of my life

January 31, 2017by: Tara Carucci - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

There's nothing like the Gold Coast especially when you go through TEAN. My time in Australia was an adventure of a lifetime. I began my trip where my orientation was, which was Sydney. When I found that out I was so excited. If there's one place to go in Australia, it has to be Sydney. During my time there, we toured the Opera House, got to walk through the beautiful Botanical Gardens, hike the famous Sydney Habour Bridge, and ate at the most delicious restaurants in the city. From there I headed to my home for the next four months, the Gold Coast. The Gold Coast is a buzzing city, home to Surfer's Paradise. There is an endless amount to do here. From learning how to surf, to exploring the inlands, to shopping at the best boutiques and markets in the country, to swimming the most amazing beaches, to cuddling with koalas and kangaroos, to many many more adventures of a lifetime and I had the opportunity to have lived in the center of all of this through TEAN's beach housing. Living here was basically a dream come true. I was only a 20 minute bus ride away from my school, Bond University, and also Burleigh, which ended up being one of the my beautiful places I've ever been to! Picking The Education Abroad Network as my program to study abroad through was one of the best decisions I've ever made in life, and I would do it all over again in a heart beat !

Skydiving in Byron BayEnjoying some Vegemite on the Whitsunday IslandsMy backyard in Broadbeach

Nothing comes close to the... Gold Coast?

January 26, 2017by: Anonymous - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Bond University is an amazing school that seems to be primarily known for business, but it offers so much more. Not only does it offer a whole host of different degree programs, but Bond also offers a great network for its students in regards to academic support, extracurricular activities, internship opportunities, and many other aspects that make it such a fantastic school. The courses were challenging, but the professors were more than competent and really showed genuine interest in making sure that their students succeeded. TEAN provides an immense amount of support to students wishing to study abroad from the very beginning of the process onward. They did an amazing job of communicating what had to be done and when it had to be done in order to make things as smooth as possible leading up to departure. TEAN did a fantastic job during our orientation of candidly giving us an idea of what to expect of Australian culture. As a result, given that we were so far from the United States, I began to feel quite acquainted with Australian culture, and even the laid back attitude of the Gold Coast. Through TEAN, we were given the opportunity to live in Peppers Broadbeach, an incredible 5-star hotel with much more than a handful of luxurious amenities. This, of course, was a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and coupled with the proximity to the beach, Peppers was the cherry on top for my Australian experience. Besides the fact that TEAN has the most helpful, supportive, and approachable staff, they offer more events and activities than other providers and have put a great deal of thought into the small details to make sure that students have an amazing time abroad.

Waiheke Island - a short ferry away from AucklandA view of the Sydney Opera House from Taronga ZooBonorong Wildlife Sanctuary in Tasmania

Livin' the dream

January 25, 2017by: Maria DesRochers - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

I can't explain how great of an experience I had while studying abroad with TEAN. The program was always there whenever I had questions about school, a trip, or anything else for that matter. One of the best parts of the program was the Australian orientation. We were able to spend a week full of culture, food, and walking in Sydney with an actual Australian tour guide. We got acclimated with our surroundings and our new friends. Another great plus of TEAN is that they offer a post trip (I think to ease you back into real life) to Fiji. Let me tell you, it was the most relaxing week of my life. 12/10 would recommend.

Skyline view from Burleigh Head Beach

Newy, my home away from home

January 24, 2017by: Sarah Davis - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Newcastle, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Newcastle, Australia will forever hold a special place in my heart. It was all I had hoped it would be. Living in Newy or a surrounding town you don't have to go far to see some of the most beautiful beaches I have ever seen in my life. When researching places to study in Australia I was looking for a beach town that was not touristy and Newcastle fit that. There is a city feel to Newy but it's a small town city. I didn't feel overwhelmed or lost walking around. I felt as though I could go to town and be safe and find my way around alone. Newy has it all, small town feel, beaches, shopping, nightlife and great food. It was truly and incredible experience and somewhere I will forever consider home.

Moderately crazy

January 19, 2017by: Tricia Temple - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Townsville, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad seemed like a crazy idea to me at first but I knew I wanted to do it. I knew that I could do it, but it still scared me a little. I remember thinking at one point during my trip that growing up you meet people who live in your neighborhood and then people who go to your school. Then you go to high school and meet people with similar interests and people from other neighborhoods. Going to college you meet people who have similar goals and interests as you from a lot more neighborhoods. Studying abroad you meet people who are just as crazy as you are. I do mean this in the best way possible. What other experience will put you in a group of people who want to fly to the other side of the world and immerse themselves in a brand new culture? Where else can you find a group of people who are all excited to go diving on the reef or bungee jumping? This experience not only changed my perspective on the world but it also introduced me to people from all over the world who all were there with the same sense of adventure that I had. I traveled in the mindset that everything I was doing was going to be different than what I had done in my life previously, but it was all going to be great. To tell you the truth every minute of it was great, more than great. If I had it all to do over again I wouldn't change anything. I learned a lot more than academics on this trip and it is something that I am going to fondly remember for the rest of my life.

The best time of my life!

December 31, 2016by: Tiare Fridrich - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Townsville, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad in Australia was one of the best decisions I've ever made, and going through TEAN made the experience easy and stress free. From the moment I started working with them I knew that I was in good hands, and that support doesn't end when you reach Australia. They're there for you from beginning to end. James Cook University is a phenomenal school. The coursework is rigorous but worth the effort, and the field trips are amazing. For two courses I was able to live on a research station on the Great Barrier Reef, and for another I was in the Outback doing kangaroo surveys and catching frogs. Separate from JCU, Townsville is a wonderful city with pristine beaches and tons to do - I couldn't have asked for a better location. Studying abroad with TEAN was absolutely fabulous experience, and I would go back to Australia in a heartbeat.

A rock wallaby on Magnetic Island

The semester of a lifetime!

December 20, 2016by: Carly Levick - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Melbourne, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad with TEAN, in Melbourne, was the best choice I've ever made. TEAN has amazing support, before during, and after you are abroad. My nerves were easily calmed and the orientation really got me settled in fast. TEAN gives each city a resident director, which is an amazing resource to help you get immersed into your city's culture. Melbourne is an amazing city that has many opportunities, a great night life, amazing cafes, shops, and more. RMIT University is a great uni right in downtown Melbourne. I was able to meet many locals through my classes. Overall, studying abroad in Melbourne with TEAN was better than I could have imagined! It truly was the experience of a lifetime.

Semester in Sydney

December 13, 2016by: Jolie - United States

Program: Study Abroad at University of Sydney with WorldStrides

5

I absolutely loved my 5 month long study abroad experience through TEAN. I lived in the heart of Sydney and studied at UTS. Every day was a new adventure, whether it was walking to Darling Harbour, taking the train to Circular Quay to a) stare at the Opera House or b) take a ferry to Manly Beach or Watsons Bay or c) walk around The Rocks, hike in the Blue Mountains and Royal National Park, doing the Bondi-Coogee coastal walk, or traveling to other cities in Australia, and other countries such as New Zealand and Thailand. I learned so much about myself during my time abroad, and I gained a ton of new friends that I got to share this experience with! I learned the importance of travel and experiencing other cultures. Overall, my Sydney study abroad experience was an unbelievable and indescribable adventure, and I wish I could do it all over again!!

The best four months of my life

December 12, 2016by: Jane Innis - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Whether you're traveling to Australia to explore the Great Barrier Reef, learn how to surf, see the Sydney Opera House, hug a koala, or any of the other amazing experiences that Australia has to offer, the Gold Coast is one of the most gorgeous places to live. A quick flight away from Cairns, Melbourne, and Sydney, you will have no problem traveling to some of your most dreamed of destinations. The Gold Coast is home to Surfer's Paradise, a modern shopping area and beach town by day, and a clubbing scene at night. A quick bus ride from Bond University will bring you here, unless you live off campus in Broadbeach, which will put you at a walking distance to Surfer's Paradise. You can also take a short bus ride from both Bond Uni and Broadbeach to Burleigh, which has a breathtaking beach along with a hiking area that offers some of the most beautiful views I have ever seen (Burleigh Heads Lookout). Another amazing and gorgeous place to check out is Coolangatta, which is about a 45 minute bus ride from Broadbeach, but totally worth it. Whatever you are looking for on your adventure to Australia, you will be sure to find it in the Gold Coast!

Learning to surf in Surfer's ParadiseA view of the Sydney Opera house from the Manly Ferry

Study abroad at UNSW in Sydney, Australia!

December 09, 2016by: Domenick Cook - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Sydney, Australia with WorldStrides

5

While studying abroad in Sydney, Australia you will have the most amazing experience that is truly life changing. Having the opportunity to travel throughout the entire country while studying abroad was a huge advantage. This opportunity allowed myself to immerse myself into the Australian culture throughout a plethora of lifestyle aspects.

Sydney, AustraliabeachBondi Beach

Can't wait to go back!

December 02, 2016by: Megan Trautmiller - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

Living in Thailand was the most amazing experience of my life. I loved almost every second of my experience, and I wouldn't change a thing about it! I was originally nervous to pick a more unique country like Thailand, because all of my friends were going to English speaking and westernized countries. But going somewhere off the beaten path was the best choice for me! I had an authentic and adventurous experience that I don't think I could have had somewhere so similar to the US like Europe. If you like adventure and immersing yourself in unfamiliar cultures, Thailand will not disappoint you!

Wat Doi SuthepElephant bath!

Victoria University WLG and The Education Abroad Network

October 26, 2016by: Anonymous - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Wellington, New Zealand

5

Studying abroad in New Zealand was always a dream of mine when I was in High School. The education abroad network (TEAN) proved to not only be the best program for me as an international studies major, but as a young traveler eager to see the country. TEAN has in an in country staff that is very helpful and guides you through helpful orientations along the way. I was able to experience real New Zealand culture through many different events planned by TEAN as well as travel outside of the program. I felt safe, supported, and happy because of the help of this program. VIC University is a phenomenal school with a gorgeous campus that over looks the greater Wellington area. I found the courses to be engaging and thoroughly interesting. Wellington itself is my favorite place in the world, seriously. I would go back and do it again in a heart beat if I could!

Thanks to TEAN for the best summer of my life!

October 13, 2016by: Monea Kerr - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

I absolutely loved my time studying in Thailand with TEAN! I had no clue what to expect when it came to the culture that I would be immersed in, although I was ready to dive right in. TEAN was the perfect program for this because I had the opportunity to live with a Thai roommate, who I learned a lot about Thai culture and society from. The class I took had a balance between material learned in a typical class setting and also included excursions that take place outside of class. I feel as though I got the perfect holistic experience of Thailand through the combination of my class, Thai roommate, and living in Chiang Mai. The extracurricular activity I partook in, which was a nature hike through the jungles of northern Thailand, was the best hiking experience I have ever had. For months after, I have been longing to make a return back to Thailand because of these experiences. Thank you TEAN for the best summer of my life!

A true Australian experience

October 02, 2016by: Rachel Gordon - United States

Program: Study Abroad at University of Sydney with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad in Sydney with TEAN was probably one of the best decisions I have ever made. Studying abroad has always been a dream of mine, but it wouldn't have been made possible without the help I received before, during, and after my life-changing experience from TEAN. Going abroad to a country unfathomably far away from home, there are an endless amount of logistics to be handled that often seem to overwhelming to do yourself. However, from the moment I landed in Sydney, I never truly felt overwhelmed with handling the logistical component of my abroad experience. From the start, TEAN made sure each and every individual on the program was accounted for and felt comfortable and no questions ever went unanswered. The TEAN staff members located near my university were so willing to help with anything throughout the entire semester, whether it was trying to coordinate something with my university or helping plan a trip I wanted to go on. One of the things I loved most about studying abroad through TEAN is that I was completely immersed in the Australian academic experience. Instead of only taking classes with mostly American students and teachers (which is what I'm used to at home) I was surrounded by such a diverse group of people in all of my classes. I learned a great deal about Australia, was challenged by different educational practices, and was overall able to experience a system so unique from university in America. TEAN provides a variety of great housing options while studying abroad. Whether you are someone who is more private or you are looking to live with a bunch of roommates, TEAN does a great job placing you in housing that you will truly be happy at during your semester-long experience. The University itself provides students with a ton of great resources and organizations that you can get involved in, even as an abroad student. There was a club fair at the beginning of the semester where you could talk to students about all of the different options you could join, which was a great thing to be exposed to so early in the semester. As well, my apartment building hosted a wide variety of activities and events for residents, which was always a great way to people living close by. While studying in Sydney, not only was I exposed to some of the most picturesque settings in the world, but I was surrounded by people who made the experience so positive. TEAN provided me with so much guidance along the way and made sure that whatever I decided to do with my time in Australia, that I did I wanted to do while having the best time possible. I learned more about myself during my study abroad experience than I ever thought I would. I learned that the world is so vast, and there is so much to learn, and you can only do that if you put yourself out there. I would say that my biggest takeaway from abroad is to not hesitate, don't question, and don't waste your time - because nothing is more valuable than the minutes you spend traveling and learning about all of the things you have never before encountered in your life.

Sydney Harbour Bridge

Adventure awaits

September 29, 2016by: Jessica Wahl - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Wellington, New Zealand - Massey University

5

Whenever I’m asked, “How was New Zealand?” my go-to response is always a definitive “Fantastic.” I’ll then launch into the long-winded and enthusiastic account of my travels, pausing only to take breath. From absolutely stunning beauty to engaging academics to the friendliest people I’ve met, New Zealand has it all. I can barely begin to describe what an immensely positive and valuable experience studying abroad was for me. TEAN really is to thank for orchestrating such a smooth, stress-free transition, which allowed for me to focus on academics and cultivating a wider global awareness. Without the initial foundation that TEAN built through orientation and the support from staff, I would not have been nearly as confident as I was when it was time to venture off on my own. I absolutely loved how creative and artistically expressive the city of Wellington is. There is so so much to do and explore all within a short walk; hardly any two points in the city are more than a half hour walk from each other tops. Cafes, restaurants, and boutiques are abound. Museums are free and there are some beautiful hikes just outside the city. I lived in The Cube which is Massey University’s Accommodation where the first-year students lived. It was very much like being in a Freshman dorm again with RAs and Hall events, but I absolutely loved the strong sense of community it fostered. By the end of the semester, my floor had become my family and home away from home. I would highly recommend living in university housing if given the choice because there are so many ways to make friends and get involved with events that you might not otherwise have had the opportunity to. Lastly, I thoroughly enjoyed the curriculum I was able to take while abroad. With Massey’s Wellington campus being known as the oldest and most prestigious design school in New Zealand, it was a perfect fit to complement my Graphic Design major. The academics were rigorous yet rewarding, and very much what you make of it.

Wellington from Cable Car Lookout

A true Australian experience

September 29, 2016by: Rachel Gordon - United States

Program: Study Abroad at University of Sydney with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad in Sydney with TEAN was probably one of the best decisions I have ever made. Studying abroad has always been a dream of mine, but it wouldn't have been made possible without the help I received before, during, and after my life-changing experience from TEAN. Going abroad to a country unfathomably far away from home, there are an endless amount of logistics to be handled that often seem to overwhelming to do yourself. However, from the moment I landed in Sydney, I never truly felt overwhelmed with handling the logistical component of my abroad experience. From the start, TEAN made sure each and every individual on the program was accounted for and felt comfortable and no questions ever went unanswered. The TEAN staff members located near my university were so willing to help with anything throughout the entire semester, whether it was trying to coordinate something with my university or helping plan a trip I wanted to go on. One of the things I loved most about studying abroad through TEAN is that I was completely immersed in the Australian academic experience. Instead of only taking classes with mostly American students and teachers (which is what I'm used to at home) I was surrounded by such a diverse group of people in all of my classes. I learned a great deal about Australia, was challenged by different educational practices, and was overall able to experience a system so unique from university in America. TEAN provides a variety of great housing options while studying abroad. Whether you are someone who is more private or you are looking to live with a bunch of roommates, TEAN does a great job placing you in housing that you will truly be happy at during your semester-long experience. The University itself provides students with a ton of great resources and organizations that you can get involved in, even as an abroad student. There was a club fair at the beginning of the semester where you could talk to students about all of the different options you could join, which was a great thing to be exposed to so early in the semester. As well, my apartment building hosted a wide variety of activities and events for residents, which was always a great way to people living close by. While studying in Sydney, not only was I exposed to some of the most picturesque settings in the world, but I was surrounded by people who made the experience so positive. TEAN provided me with so much guidance along the way and made sure that whatever I decided to do with my time in Australia, that I did I wanted to do while having the best time possible. I learned more about myself during my study abroad experience than I ever thought I would. I learned that the world is so vast, and there is so much to learn, and you can only do that if you put yourself out there. I would say that my biggest takeaway from abroad is to not hesitate, don't question, and don't waste your time - because nothing is more valuable than the minutes you spend traveling and learning about all of the things you have never before encountered in your life.

Sydney Harbour Bridge

Best summer of my life

September 28, 2016by: Lucy Witchell - United States

Program: Intern Abroad in Australia with WorldStrides

5

Deciding to do a summer internship in Australia was truly the best decision I've ever made. Being pre-med, it's really hard to study abroad since you can't take pre-reqs abroad, but this program was the perfect solution. My internship was doing research on cognitive deficits following concussion on the neuropsychiatry service through Hunter New England Health in Newcastle, and it was an absolutely amazing opportunity. I got the chance to experience clinical research first hand in an international setting, which was pretty huge. I also had the opportunity to travel around Australia and saw amazing places including The Great Barrier Reef, Byron Bay, the Great Ocean Road in Victoria, and the Whitsunday Islands, which was truly the most beautiful place I've ever been. I've made friendships with both Australians and Americans that will last a lifetime, which is an incredibly priceless reward of doing this program. This program has truly spiked my desire to keep traveling, as it has taught me that travel truly is the most important source of learning and self growth.

Whitehaven beach, Whitsunday islandNewcastle, NSW, Australia

Best four months of my life!

September 25, 2016by: Sarah - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Christchurch, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

Worthwhile is an understatement when describing my time abroad. Although it may sound cliche, I absolutely feel like I grew and changed as a person during my time abroad. I came back to the US more confident, cultured, and with a new outlook on life. Traveling through TEAN allowed me to make friends, see incredible sights, and make unforgettable memories. If I could do it all over again, I would choose TEAN every time.

TEAN Wollongong: the ultimate immersion experience

September 24, 2016by: Shannon B - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Perth, Australia with WorldStrides

5

TEAN allowed for such a smooth transition from my home university to the University of Wollongong. From the application process, to orientation, to my pre-semester excursion in Cairns, and finally to Wollongong I was able to just have fun while they helped out with the rest. The orientation was set up in such a way that I felt really immersed in the Australian culture from the very beginning which made making all of my Australian friends that much easier. During my stay in the Gong I lived at Weeroona College, which I would highly recommend when choosing a dorm. Everyone is so friendly and there are so many Australians that making friends with the locals is super easy. I still catch myself using their slang even 3 months after leaving. The TEAN local staff member in charge of Wollongong was also able to host a lot of exciting events throughout the semester. This allowed a chance to continually check-in with the program, and participate in incredible excursions such as surfing at Bondi Beach or catching a local Rugby game. I can honestly go on and on about how amazing my experience was in Australia, and I definitely have TEAN to thank for that!

Still have my "Adventure in Mind"

September 19, 2016by: Emily Folse - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Dunedin, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

The University of Otago was a great place to spend a semester, and TEAN was the perfect program through which to do it. I was able to earn credits for my degree while taking classes with local students. The University of Otago has many resources that it encourages all students to use, and there is good support for international students. In fact, the large population of international students was one of my favorite things about the University! The Education Abroad Network is an organized, helpful, and reputable study abroad provider. All my interactions with TEAN staff have been pleasant. TEAN staff is always willing and able to help! TEAN excursions are a good value for money and tons of fun. I consistently felt encouraged and looked after by my program. Dunedin is an awesome spot to live. There is an abundance of shops and restaurants to enjoy, neat places to check out, and nature excursions to undertake. I also appreciated Dunedin's close proximity to other areas of New Zealand that I wanted to explore, such as Queenstown, Fiordland, and Mount Cook National Park. My semester at the University of Otago pushed me to grow emotionally, mentally, and academically. With the support of TEAN, I fostered a better sense of independence and self. I learned to let go of the small things in order to learn the big things. I grew an even greater spirit of adventure, happily surrounded by other students and staff who understood and supported my journey.

Roy's Peak, WanakaUniversity of Otago by nightOtago Highlanders Game

The trip of a lifetime

September 16, 2016by: Kasie - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Dunedin, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

My abroad experience pushed me in more ways than I thought possible. It pushed me physically-whether through skydiving, bungee jumping, or canyoning, mentally- in class and in my attempts to plan trips and navigate a completely new country- and most significantly, emotionally. Having never previously left the country, studying abroad was a huge emotional change for me. Suddenly, I couldn’t just rely on my parents. This forced me to become more resourceful, self-sufficient, and most importantly, it taught me that I was in charge of how my study abroad experience would play out. Thankfully, I had TEAN to help guide, nudge, and catch me in cases I faltered or simply needed advice or direction. TEAN provided plenty of organized activities to introduce us into the community while still giving us enough space to explore the country how we wanted to! They were always available to help this new traveler get the most out of her experience whether through a phone call, email, or meet up with my location's TEAN advisor.

Otago, New Zealand

Hobbits and Shakespeare and Kiwis -- oh my!

September 13, 2016by: Janelle - United States

Program: Intern Abroad in New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

When I first watched Peter Jackson's adaptations of The Lord of the Rings at age 10, I knew I had to visit New Zealand. How could such sweeping plains, craggy volcanoes, and verdant farmland exist in one small island country? However, because of the stresses of traveling so far, I knew this would not be an easy trip to plan or execute on my own. What is a sad nerd girl to do? Luckily, I found my answer in TEAN; not only did they help with my travel and living arrangements, they offered me the chance to work for college credit and live in my dream city, Wellington, for two months. I had the opportunity to get real-life, cross-cultural work experience at Shakespeare Globe Centre New Zealand, a partner of the Globe in London that specializes in educational outreach for secondary school children. Aside from my 40-hour work weeks, I was able to explore the country that had fascinated me for so many years during my spare time. It took a few bouts of severe homesickness and many trips to the coffeeshop by the office, but in between searching for Hobbits and those ever-elusive Kiwi, I found a better, stronger version of myself along the way. I'm forever thankful to New Zealand and TEAN for allowing me the opportunity to live a dream and plan for my not-so-distant adulthood, all at the same time.

The experience of a lifetime!

September 13, 2016by: Kate D. - United States

Program: Intern Abroad in Australia with WorldStrides

5

This whole experience has changed my life. As cliché as that sounds, I can say with complete honesty that it is 100% true. Before this trip I had never been out of North America, let alone, away from my family and friends for this long. While there were definitely times where it was tough and I really didn’t want to do this whole thing anymore, I found ways to stick it out. I took trips and saw places like nothing I had ever seen before. I made friendships that will hopefully last a lifetime. I truly experienced what it is like to live and work abroad. But most importantly, this trip allowed me to develop and grow as a young adult, who is looking forward to my next adventure; wherever that may take me.

Best semester of my life!!

September 13, 2016by: Libby Maine - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

My semester in Chiang Mai was by far one of the best semesters of my life. Not only were the classes fun and information and we got to go on cool field trips but the program as a whole was spectacular. Our TEAN administrator Lauren who lived in Thailand always had fun trips planned for us and was always more than willing to help us plan our own travels. The culture in Thailand was also amazing. Everyone there was so welcoming and loved it whenever I would practice my Thai. I especially loved how our program paired us with a local roommate and we also had classmates from other areas of South East Asia it allowed me to both immerse myself in the Thai culture as well as learn about other South East Asian cultures from my class mates.

our visit to the elephant nature park

Always Australia

September 13, 2016by: Christy Flom - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Sydney, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Going abroad through TEAN was an absolutely amazing experience. I went on two planned excursions during the semester, one to Cairns where I went skydiving, rafting, and scuba diving, and another to Thailand where I fed elephants, experienced the rituals of a local village, and relaxed on the islands nearby. TEAN was extremely helpful in retaining a travel visa, enrolling in classes, and finding flights. Once I was in Australia, the staff were available 24/7 to help us navigate the transportation, figure out our new campus, and get involved in local events. The beach was my backyard and I will forever be wishing I was back there, exploring the incredible landscapes, animals, and brunch places! If I ever go back to Australia I will praying I can go through TEAN whether I am a student still or not!

elephants, elephants, elephants!12 Apostles

An experience of a lifetime

September 13, 2016by: Gabriella Gagliardi - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad can, for many people, be an overwhelming and even scary thought to think about. Studying abroad comes with a lot more than just picking a country but rather picking a program, deciding on housing, deciding on a university and most importantly, what classes to take! Luckily I didn't have the overwhelming experience because I went through The Education Abroad Network. The Education Abroad Network is an affiliated program of my school that thoroughly walks students step by step through each the benchmarks. The Education Abroad Network, also known as TEAN is a company who without a doubt puts their students first and makes a point to ensure an incredible experience. TEAN doesn't stop after their students are accepted into their programs but instead sets up excursions, orientations, cruise dinners and adventures around the country to ensure their students get the most out of their journey. I trusted TEAN throughout my semester in Australia and I could not have been happier! As an abroad student in Bond University I felt truly welcomed to be apart of the University by teachers and fellow students. The campus was smaller than what I was used to at my home university but incredibly inviting and not to mention beautiful. Living in the Gold Coast, and more specifically on the beach made the experience one to truly remember.

Gold Coast

A truly unexpected journey

September 10, 2016by: Connor McGlynn - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Auckland, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

I truly loved my time abroad. Through TEAN we were able to begin our journey with an orientation in Fiji, where we got to meet all of the other students traveling abroad, hike and snorkel. Once in Auckland, TEAN made sure to show us around and help us transition into the new culture and our new homes. New Zealand is one of the most beautiful countries that I have ever seen and because of this program I was able to see so much of it, from excursions during spring break to rugby games and volcanic hikes.

Mirror Lakes in the South IslandView from top of peak on Tongariro Alpine Crossing

I would do it again in a heartbeat!

September 04, 2016by: Shayna O'Boyle - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Before I actually decided to study abroad in Australia, I was doing research on the different companies and kept stumbling upon The Education Abroad Network. One day I simply decided to just start applying on their website and see where it went from there. Only a few short days after starting the application, I received a phone call from someone at TEAN to discuss my options and any questions I had. And from that moment on, I decided I was definitely studying abroad through them. Looking back, there is no other company I would have rather gone abroad to Australia with. The Education Abroad Network did everything they possibly could to make sure things ran smoothly, and were there every step of the way. I knew going to Australia was out of my comfort zone, but TEAN did everything to make me feel comfortable. Our initial orientation week in Sydney was the perfect opener to the country. We were given tours of the city, went to all the touristy areas, and even went to go see our first kangaroos. And our final night together before we continued to the Gold Coast was complete by a sunset dinner cruise in the harbor, acting as the perfect finishing touch to a great week. From there I felt ready to explore the rest of Australia, especially knowing people from TEAN were there in case I had any questions or just wanted to chat. Once I got to the Gold Coast and Bond University, I felt at home. It was the perfect location for me. Only 20 minutes from the beach, what could be better. It was the absolute best experience of my life, life-changing, and if I could do it all over again I would do it the exact same way. If you are considering study abroad, do it, no questions asked.

The perfect view of the heart of the Gold Coast, Surfers Paradise.

The wonderful land of Aus

September 01, 2016by: Megan Shea - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

My time in Australia with The Education Abroad Network was by far the best four months of my life! First of all Australia is amazing because of the great weather, beaches, and adventure activities. You will never be bored and TEAN sets up great activities for students to further ensure that. Before my semester on the Gold Coast officially started TEAN arranged an awesome week-long orientation in Sydney where we got to go on a tour of the city, climb the Sydney Tower, visit a zoo, and we even got to go jet boating! When on the Gold Coast TEAN arranged for us to attend a Rugby game and a trip to a wildlife sanctuary where we could hold koalas. The TEAN staff is very good about making themselves available to students if one were to have any questions or concerns about housing, school, or things to do when abroad. The abroad office at Bond Uni was also a great resource to students. The campus is beautiful and TEAN offers great housing options for those that want to live on or off campus.

BOND ROCKS!

August 31, 2016by: Jaelyn - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Bond was honestly the best University that I could have gone to abroad. They were so welcoming of international students and everyone on campus was very helpful because they always knew when someone was lost. TEAN did a great job at preparing us to be on campus but also tell us the fun local spots on where to go throughout the week. I really enjoyed the teaching styles at bond as I thought it was almost better than my home university. I loved the location on where I lived. I will never get to say that I lived a half a block away from the beach ever in my life since I am from the Mid-West. I also thought the transportation was so easy and honestly could get you anywhere. They also had Uber's so that made it very helpful as well. I was able to be involved in a ton of events while I was there. I also made ton of friends overtime I traveled because I would stay at hostels which was like a fun dorm. I would recommend this trip to anyone! I loved Aussie but I was also able to go to New Zealand and Bali. These trips were very affordable and I am so blessed that I was able to go. I am more then happy to share my experience in greater detail is someone wants! Don't be shy! Aussie will change your lifestyle!

Broadbeach sunrise

Best summer I have ever had!

August 31, 2016by: Chan Thai - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Shanghai, China with WorldStrides

5

My experience with TEAN in Shanghai is beyond word. It was the best decision I have made and it was the best summer I have had. Shanghai is a mega metropolis, it is 8 times bigger then New York City. The fun and opportunity to learn and grow in Shanghai is endless. I left Shanghai richer in knowledge and wiser. I made lifelong friends from around the world and built so many connections that I cannot count it all. With 13 other TEAN students, we bonded and grew up together only within a month. We became family, we traveled together, climbed the Great Wall of China, ate local food (which we were told not to), tried every excursion that were available for us. The staffs were purely amazing, friendly, and helpful. Not only they were there to help me with everything (from using the washer to extending my visa), they showed me Shanghai and became my friends as well. I have learned so much about myself, the culture, and most importantly, I have developed strong communication and survival skills. This was my first time in China and not knowing the language was terrifying at first for me; however, TEAN made everything so much smoother and I blended right in. Fudan University is a great university. The facility is beautiful and very secured. All classes besides the language ones are taught in English, the teachers are very nice and understanding. Although the courses can be a bit intensive, it is worthwhile. The best thing is if you’re there to learn the language, you’re not only learning in class but everywhere you go. You get to practice and apply what you learned immediately which is very effective. The moment my taxi headed to Pudong Airport, I already miss Fudan’s beautiful campus, my friends, and all of the delicious, cheap food that can only be found in Shanghai. I could go all day about how amazing this trip was but it’s always better to feel it yourself. I would do it all over again in a heartbeat! I highly recommend this program to everyone, it truly changed my life and I know for sure it will change yours too.

International students in Shanghai downtownShanghai, ChinaDelicious Chinese food

Pushing your body and mind to new heights

June 08, 2016by: Kristy Plaza - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Auckland, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

I love the outdoors and I was very excited to take part of New Zealand's amazing outdoor activities! From great walks, to bungee jumping to sky diving, it was easy to find high energy activities that would challenge my body and mind. My friends and I braved the Tongariro Alpine Crossing near Lake Taupo. It was a long and high climb through mountains and some snow. We hiked for 8 hours! It was the longest I have every climbed or hiked, but I was excited every step of the way. And the Lord of the Rings fangirl in me was just giddy over the fact that I was by the Mount Doom! Although it's actually called Mount Ngauruhoe. We weren't able to climb it due to there being too much fog, but we climbed the mountain next to it, and got an amazing view of Mount Ngauruhoe! I even had a mini photoshoot of throwing the One Ring down the mountain. After the long day, my legs were like jelly, but I was so proud of myself and made some wonderful memories with my friends!

The Great Walk of Tongariro CrossingMy friends, Cody and Phillomina, ready for the hiking!Mount Ngauruhoe, or Mount Doom

An adventure to remember

June 08, 2016by: Virginia Vick - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Dunedin, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

I think about this trip constantly. It was a trip that was beyond words and I grew so much from it. The Kiwis are a very nice people and will do anything to help. The Education Abroad Network did a great job of being very supportive if we ever needed anything. Traveling around New Zealand was always an adventure and was completely amazing. I would love to go back soon! I'm thinking about going to graduate school at Otago because it was such a lovely experience and the teachers were all amazing as well.

Nugget Point

Not all those who wander are lost- J. R. R. Tolkien

May 30, 2016by: Kayla Q - New Zealand

Program: Study Abroad in Wellington, New Zealand

5

I love to travel, and I hope that never changes. Coming to New Zealand has made me realize how much I love to travel for an extended period of time. Backpacking around is fun and all, and I love that too, but I loved meeting the people here, spending time with the Kiwi's learning the Maori Culture, taking classes, going to food stores, and being fully immersed in a culture the way that you can never experience in only a few days or weeks at a time.

The HakaHobbitonQueenstown

I'd go back in a heartbeat

April 03, 2016by: Allison Rooney - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Melbourne, Australia with WorldStrides

4

Where to even begin! Studying abroad was never a question for me; it always seemed a no-brainer! I would get to attend school in a new country while living in and exploring a brand new place? Yes please! However, my study abroad experience was not as vacation-like as many of your Facebook friends make it out to be. It was hard. I didn't know anybody going into this program, plus I had never lived in a city before so I knew I was going to have to adapt to my new situation. However, even though it may be scary jumping into something like this it is so, so, so worth it. While in Australia I got to climb to the top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, road-trip down the South Island of New Zealand, and scuba dive for the first time at the Great Barrier Reef! Hands down the most amazing trip of my life. Another point I want to touch on is that many of my peers choose to study abroad during the summer because they don't want to "miss out on anything", quote, un-quote. To me, this is a little bit ridiculous. I lived in Melbourne for roughly 4 and a half months and I only began to feel at home towards the end of my trip because there were so many new things to discover and learn. So, to any skeptics I say: When will you ever have this opportunity again? Take a leap of faith, jump in, and have the experience of a lifetime.

A "Sweet As" Semester in New Zealand

March 01, 2016by: Whitney Kirkpatrick - Rome, GA

Program: Study Abroad in Dunedin, New Zealand with WorldStrides

4

I wanted to study abroad in New Zealand because I wanted an adventure, and my experience went above and beyond my expectations. I spent five months living in New Zealand while studying at the University of Otago in Dunedin. I always felt safe when I was in NZ, but I was also able to step out of my comfort zone and experience new things at the same time. Dunedin has a strong student culture, and living in the Uni Flats gave me the chance to live with kiwis as well as other international students. My ISA program leaders, Emily and Peren, were wonderful, and they played a big part in supporting us and also planned some "sweet as" excursions. Studying abroad in New Zealand through ISA is definitely something that I would recommend!

NEW ZEALAND

March 01, 2016by: WPerkins - Knoxville

Program: Study Abroad in Dunedin, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

Where to start... This trip was incredible. I love the outdoors and New Zealand has so much to offer. I traveled all over the country (literally from the the most southern point, to darn near close to the most northern). The entire country is gorgeous. Making trips are highly encouraged; go see the country for what it really is. Great areas to go are the Tongariro Crossing, Mount Cooke, and Fjordlands. ISA does an amazing job making the transition into a country easy as well as constantly being there for support, and even taking the group on excursions. Even if you don't decide to go to New Zealand, go somewhere. The opportunity is there, take it.

New Zealand has my heart

March 01, 2016by: Marta Sindelar - Carbondale

Program: Study Abroad in Wellington, New Zealand - Massey University

5

My time in New Zealand was unforgettable. From the people to the beautiful scenery to the funny words they use, New Zealand is the perfect place to study abroad and ISA is the best program to take you there. One of the scariest things about studying abroad is what to do right when you get there, but the ISA staff was there waiting to help us begin our journey with the most ease that I could've asked for. The three day orientation was immensely helpful because it taught me about the culture of New Zealand as well as giving me a great group of friends. ISA simply took all of the travel stress away and just left us all to experience everything that New Zealand has to offer. I fell in love with this country because it became a place I could call my second home. I made some of my closest friends and created stories that I will be telling for the rest of my life. And let's not forget Lord of the Rings! It is impossible to explain everything that New Zealand and ISA did for me, but just know that I learned more about myself and the world than I could've imagined. If it wasn't for ISA, my experience would have undoubtedly been more stressful, and that would have taken up quite a bit of the precious time I had in the most beautiful country on Earth. New Zealand has my heart and I know that it will steal the heart of anyone who goes there. So choose ISA, they won't let you down.

Hiking through the Redwoods as part of our orientationStudy abroad buds on the sand dunes in Northland, New Zealand

A New Home

February 29, 2016by: Ayla

Program: Study Abroad in Wellington, New Zealand - Massey University

5

I knew almost immediately after landing in New Zealand that I had found a new place to call home. Not only is the entire (yes, ENTIRE) country absolutely gorgeous, but the culture is rich beyond measure and the natives are full of passion. New Zealand has so much to offer simply because of its beautiful landscapes, but the added benefit of being such a wholesome place to be means that it attracts like-minded people who care about the things I care about: art, the environment, kindness, and food. I truly appreciate the independence that I gained in New Zealand, but I also am grateful for the stability and structure that ISA provided to me. I made many, life-long friends through my program, and I was able to go on multiple excursions that would have otherwise cost me additional fees, or not been available at all. Whenever I speak of the program, I always mention the Bridging Cultures Program; this three-day orientation was the perfect way to introduce me to the country, culture, and lifestyle that quickly became a huge part of who I am. ISA staff made sure we were always taken care of, right from the beginning. We were picked up and driven to our accommodations upon landing in Auckland, and then once we reached Wellington. Throughout the first few days, the staff was always available. Because of ISA's dedication to having site staff members be native to the country of study, I always felt like I was getting honest, culturally-based answers to me questions. When I traveled outside of New Zealand for spring break, my site specialist called to ensure I made it to Australia safely. This was something unexpected, but it proved how dedicated ISA is to the safety of those enrolled in its programs. Additionally, I was so pleased to not have to worry about accommodation upon entering a new country. ISA arranged my housing in "The Cube" for me. The excursions we went on were also a huge perk to going through ISA. One of my favorite days in Wellington was going on the Seal Coast Safari ride. My five-month stay in New Zealand was, without doubt, the best five months of my life. I have traveled to multiple other countries since, and I can confidently say that, while perfect in their own right, none have warmed my heart and fueled my soul as much as my favorite little country in the middle of nowhere.

spotted Maori peopleexploring New Zealand

Total immersion into the Great city of Shanghai

February 19, 2016by: Katharina Gruenewald - Ames

Program: Study Abroad in Shanghai, China with WorldStrides

5

I love my time in Shanghai with The Education Abroad Network so much! I had such a hard time leaving. Shanghai is a mega metropolis with so much to do. During our orientation with TEAN we saw a lot of sights and got adapted to use the metro and start using our language skills, so that when the semester at Fudan University began, we had been able to gather some experiences with the Chinese culture. We were able to take a broader range of courses ranging from finances all the way to history. For our Mandarin courses, we had teachers privately hired for the TEAN students, so that our classes were only four or five students strong. An hour a day, we practiced speaking and listening to Chinese, which made the class very applicable for every day use in Shanghai. Most of the TEAN members in my semester lived off campus, in western style housing which were very comfortable and very modern. Through living together we became very close friends. We explored Shanghai together, did homework together, went out at night and tried many different Chinese cuisines and restaurants together. Our favorites are North- Easter Chinese food, especially cabbage and cauliflower. Maps doufu, a sichuan style dish, was among our favorites as well as Chinese hotpot. As a group we also grew closer during our excursions to Inner Mongolia and Beijing. These two weekend trips with TEAN were especially fun. I already miss strolling around Fudan's beautiful campus with my friends, taking classes together and finding street food on campus. I was also very glad for the guidance TEAN gave us. We had an easy time registering with the police, signing up for classes and communicating with our landlord thanks to the residence director, who was a Chinese native, and the assistant resident director who was an American. I am glad I went with TEAN to Shanghai for my very first time in China and I would do it all again with a hesitation. Thanks - TEAN!

The Best Five Months of My Life

February 17, 2016by: KC - Charlottesville

Program: Study Abroad in Dunedin, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

My experience studying at The University of Otago in Dunedin, New Zealand was a more enriching, thrilling, and overall life-changing experience than I ever could have imagined. I embraced the affable, genuine Kiwi culture, while also growing as an individual as I learned to live on the opposite side of the world. My flatting situation could not have been better, my friendships could not have been stronger and the scenery of New Zealand could not have been more breathtaking. I left New Zealand heartbroken to say goodbye, but also more fulfilled than ever by having my eyes opened to the adventure and excitement of a semester abroad. This experience was absolutely worthwhile, and I encourage anyone considering studying abroad to take the leap and go for it, because it will change your life in so many positive ways! This incredible experience, however, could not have been possible without the help provided by The Education Abroad Network, whose staff—both at home and abroad—was there every step of the way to facilitate the process. My decision to choose The Education Abroad Network was by the one of the best decisions I made during my study abroad process. The TEAN staff was incredibly accessible, friendly, and knowledgeable. I had countless questions before leaving for New Zealand, and TEAN was there every step of the way. This was not a program hosted through my home University, so my decision to choose TEAN was based all on my own research, and I was confident that TEAN was the best program out there. This program was also the most affordable of all the options I researched-all while including a pre-semester 5 day excursion to Fiji and another week of traveling the North Island. Not only were the American TEAN staff incredibly helpful, but the TEAN members in Dunedin were just as amazing. I lost my phone my first day in Dunedin, and the staff was there right away to take me through the city and get me a new phone. Throughout the semester we had coffee catchups and various other excursions with them. I especially became good friends with our local TEAN guide, and I plan on continuing to keep in touch with her for the years to come! Even after returning home, TEAN has been there to help with the transcript process and the transition of coming home. I would absolutely recommend this program to anyone unsure of a program.

My favorite day hike-Roy's Peak, Wanaka New ZealandMilford Sound, New ZealandPre-Semester Excursion in Fiji

Bring me back!

February 10, 2016by: Taylor Leggett - Durham, New Hampshire

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

For everyone questioning going abroad, DON'T! Do it! I'm so grateful for my experience, I wish it never ended. The Education Abroad Network was also a great provider. They always had someone on staff if you ever needed anything and they genuinely cared about your experience. As far as Australia, what can I say. It's a beautiful country, everyone is super nice, and the weather is even better. I honestly am counting the days until I can go back, and saving my money. I think about it everyday!

Sydney Harbour Bridge ClimbSky Diving Byron Bay

La Vida Limeña: How I learned to be a light in the darkness

February 03, 2016by: Leah Carswell - Cleveland, OH

Program: Community Engagement in Lima, Peru with WorldStrides

5

Volunteering in Lima, Peru with Aprendo Contigo, taught me how to be a positive light in tough times. I was a full time student at a local university and volunteered twice a week with Aprendo Contigo. At the hospital, Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Neoplasicas, I provided therapy to children with cancer. Every morning, volunteers and I would work and play with children of all ages, as they sat in their hospital beds receiving chemotherapy. From the fun of finger painting to playing an intense game of Jenga, we as volunteers brought a bright, smiling face and a positive attitude to their bedside. I will admit, this opportunity is not for the faint of heart. Working with sick children, was something I had never experienced before. I was used to teaching happy healthy kids. There were down moments that brought tears to your eyes, but there were moments that brought tears of laughter and joy. Volunteering with Aprendo Contigo taught me how to be a positive light in a time of sadness. I was a light to the kids and their families. It was the most rewarding experience I had in Peru. I wouldn't trade my time for anything. I encourage people to take time to see how you can be a positive light for someone in need.

Top Left: Aprendo Contigo volunteers and I organizing an activity. Bottom Left: A little girl receiving chemo and working on a caterpillar craft with me. Right: Milagros (My On-Site Supervisor) and me!

Newcastle is the Place to Be!

January 29, 2016by: Sarah Elgar - Rhode Island

Program: Study Abroad in Newcastle, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Honestly I felt that Newcastle was the best place to pick because it is so well-rounded. I was able to experience a University like never before having the campus basically be surrounded by the rain forest but also got a chance to travel into the city for that sort of life. The academics was challenging in the best way and I was able to make long-lasting friendships both in my classes and where I was staying. Newcastle is a BEAUTIFUL town with a strip of beaches and small towns that have so many different types of cultures to experience. There is also an easily accessible train that can lead straight into Sydney if you want to! As explained by others as well; Newcastle is Australia's hidden gem <3

The University of Newcastle

STOP THE CLOCK

January 29, 2016by: Tiffany - Uncasville

Program: Study Abroad in Dunedin, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

At some point during your college career, things are going to get crazy. The people, the weekend road trips, final exam crams, and 4 AM fire alarms... ah these are the days! Though, eighteen-year-old me would have never expected my crazy college career to take a part in New Zealand, of all the amazing countries! And like everyone else who has ever been abroad, this has been the best decision of my life (so far). TEAN provided us with all the information we needed to live like a local in New Zealand during our relaxing time in Fiji and energy filled orientation in Auckland and Roturoa. The University of Otago was an incredible experience. From the lively student life, weekly events, and campus resources, it was easy to adjust to the school and feel appreciated as a student. And Dunedin city had just about everything you needed from local shops and cafes, beaches to soak in some sun or the catch some waves, a killer local farmers market every Saturday morning and so so much more! And I haven't even started talking about the beautiful country yet, but to keep this short: One magnificent country, two extremely different islands (three counting Stewart Island), 4 million friendly kiwis, 30 million sheep and all the incredible adventures waiting for you to explore. What more can you ask for in a college semester?

Some apple and peanut butter action on the Pineapple Track during the sunset. Only about 20-30 minute walk from campus! One of my favorite day walks without a doubt.A weekend trip at Mt Aspiring National Park with a party of 70+Beautiful Kaiteriteri

An Unforgettable Semester

January 28, 2016by: Brittany Ferreira - Easton

Program: Study Abroad in Auckland, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

Choosing The Education Abroad Network was one of the best decisions I have ever made! This program was beyond amazing, and exceeded all of my expectations! Not only were they there to help me and answer questions every step of the way while I prepared for my departure, but the staff that worked with myself and the other TEAN students while we were in our host country were amazing! TEAN provided everything we could have possibly needed to settle int our new home, and more. They did a great job of organizing events that were not only interesting and fun, but also really immersed us in the culture, whether it was hiking to a local village in Fiji, or watching the local Maori high school perform traditional dances and songs. I could not have picked a better program provider for this amazing experience!

Studying in Paradise

January 26, 2016by: Briana Pascarelli - Kingston

Program: Study Abroad in Townsville, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad at JCU was the best decision I've ever made thus far and going through TEAN made the process simple and stress-free. I could email TEAN with any questions and concerns I had about studying abroad and they were very hands on and would always answer as soon as possible before, during, and after going abroad. They help you with booking flights, getting your visa, learning how to get around your host city, and anything else you could possibly need to know. It was very helpful having a Resident Director who worked for TEAN in Townsville because he had studied abroad there before and knew all the ins and outs. TEAN also provides many activities for you to do when you get to your host city. Townsville is quite small and rural, so there aren't many big attractions that you would know of and TEAN did a great job with picking out activities that help you appreciate where you're staying. Some of these included attending a Cowboys rugby game, visiting Reef HQ, and paddle boarding on The Strand. Although Townsville is small, it is a great place to relax and enjoy nature. You can find hiking trails everywhere, especially if you go to Castle Hill or Magnetic Island. TEAN also provides opportunities to travel during semester breaks and weekends. I was lucky enough to participate in their trip to New Zealand which was absolutely perfect. They have other trips to offer as well, but this is the one I took advantage of. I also wanted to add that living on campus was a great decision because I was immersed in the Australian culture and got to meet a lot of Aussies and other international students. Studying abroad has made me a much more independent and open-minded person. You learn a lot about yourself and what you're capable of when you travel halfway across the world without anyone you're familiar with. From this experience, I gained lifelong friends and unforgettable memories that I will keep with me wherever I go in the future. I have been pushed out of my comfort zone on this trip more times than I can recall, and it had made me realize how valuable this is to help you grow as a person. Overall my experience abroad has provided me with the skills and knowledge necessary to keep traveling and experiencing the world.

Sunset on The StrandWallaby crossing on campusJCU

Best 4 Months of my Life

January 25, 2016by: Sean Demers - Milton

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

This experience was the most amazing experience I have ever, and probably will ever have. While I was abroad, I did everything from learning how to surf, to skydiving, to scuba diving, basically I did everything. I traveled all over the most beautiful country in the world and saw the natural beauty this world has to offer. The people I met while abroad will stay with me forever, I built some lifelong friendships and will keep in touch with these people forvever. TEAN helped me and everyone out so much and I cannot thank them enough. Anyway, long and amazing story short. This trip was the best time of my life. I would highly recommend it to everybody, if you have the option to study abroad, do it.

Endless Outdoor Adventure

January 24, 2016by: Molly - Oxford, Ohio

Program: Study Abroad in Christchurch, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

Do to New Zealand's unique and extremely far location I knew that I wanted a large period of time to experience all aspects of this incredible country. TEAN made traveling to a place so far away and so unique an easy transition through our Fiji orientation where I met incredible people from all over the US soon to become lifelong friends. Our orientation leaders were amazing, kind, and helpful people who prepared us in every way possible for the following 5 months in New Zealand making the transition effortless. TEAN orients everyone studying in New Zealand together which allowed me to make friends all over the country who I then visited during my experience, making travel a lot more accessible. As prepared as I was, really getting out into the country and experiencing the outdoors first hand allowed me to appreciate nature further and advance my outdoor education. But along with all the traveling I was able to accomplish, living in Christchurch provided me with a unique experience. Christchurch is deep in the recovery of a devastating earthquake an eye opening sight that my professors were able to incorporate into their lectures by giving real life New Zealand examples to the theories we were learning in class. It made my studying part of being abroad that much more special and close to the place to which I was learning. Living in Christchurch allowed me to hike almost every weekend and living in Ilam helped me meet people from all over the world. Studying in Christchurch in the South Island not only opened me up to an endless amount of outdoor opportunities but also allowed me to experience a wealth of beautiful geography from glaciers to fiords to numerous national parks. Studying abroad in New Zealand has changed my perspective on the different cultures we have in our world and has inspired me to find adventure where every I am in the world.

Christchurch beachcavessnow!

Why Australia is My First Love, but Second Home

January 24, 2016by: Sydney Taylor - Tampa

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad is an amazing opportunity for any student to experience while they are in university. It's even more amazing when students go to places that aren't necessarily "traditional" in the sense that it's not in Europe. The experience then becomes outstanding when they go through The Education Abroad Network or TEAN. I couldn't ask for a better support system and guide for this experience. The TEAN staff was very helpful with giving step-by-step instructions and advice. It also meant a lot when they were able to comfort my jittery mother during this time. TEAN also hosted a number of cool excursions that really allowed us, the students, to dive into Australian culture. Some excursions included climbing the Sydney Harbor Bridge, attending sporting events, diving in the Great Barrier Reef, and surfing of course! I don't think Australia, Gold Coast specifically, wouldn't have became my second home if my TEAN staff didn't force it on me. If you're looking for a good time, incredible views, and major relaxation- TEAN Gold Coast is the program for you!

Marvelous Melbourne

January 23, 2016by: Jarrett Booz - Towson, Maryland

Program: Study Abroad in Melbourne, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Melbourne is a great city, but it would have been impossible to experience the best parts of the city without TEAN. TEAN pointed me in the correct direction and advised me what the best places to visit were. There are countless experiences to have while overseas and each one is worthwhile, but not all are possible to do. With TEAN's help I was able to have all the great experiences I was hoping for. I would go back and complete the program again if I could. I am very grateful for my experience.

The Best Way to Learn and Grow

January 22, 2016by: Katherine Farrell - West Hartford, Connecticut

Program: Study Abroad in Wellington, New Zealand

5

Studying abroad in general ends up being one of the most important decisions of your life. Studying abroad with TEAN as your program makes it the BEST decision you will ever make. As your time in another country transforms the person you are into something even better, the program that is there to guide you becomes an invaluable tool for you. From orientation in Fiji and Auckland, to the programs they hosted for us throughout the semester, TEAN made my semester above and beyond amazing. They were so good at keeping in touch and communicating with all of us, and prepared us so well for our journey. Wellington was a very cultured, perfect sized, host city. If you love coffee and cafes, and being right around beautiful harbour, it is the city for you! I spent countless days just exploring everything the city had to offer, and I rarely missed a farmer's or night market that the city had every weekend. Not to mention, that Wellington is a very convenient place to travel from! Victoria University was a school in which I could learn and build friendships with so many other students. I quickly got to know my professors and became more aware of the culture of the country. I am extremely grateful that I chose Wellington as my place to learn and grow!

The view from Victoria University's library- can't complain about studying!Hiking the Lake Waikaremoana Great WalkWellington's Weekly Saturday Night Market

Life Changing Experience!

January 20, 2016by: Adam Clark - Fremont, California

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Some of my favorite memories from my time abroad were the morning sunrises that we had in every city that we went to. As we travelled across Australia, through New Zealand, and Fiji, we made sure that we watched a sunrise in every place. We forced ourselves to stay up all night long to see the sunrise but they were all filled with great times, company, and plenty of laughs along the way. They were great adventures that I will remember for the rest of my life. Another memory I have is skydiving for the first time with a group from the program. We were all incredibly nervous before take-off but I remember once we saw the views of Cairns we forgot that we were about to jump. Naturally we all freaked out after the first person jumped however but once we all landed on the ground it was such a rush that we will never forget, and it was something we were glad to experience together. The TEAN staff is nothing short of incredible. The in-country staff were always available and very helpful if we ever had any questions on how to get around, where to go for things, or any general questions while we were abroad. The staff did their best to make us feel at home so we could make the most of our time in Australia. TEAN offers three housing options for students to live in and I chose the "Premier Housing" and it was amazing! The building was very modern and the apartments had everything we needed for our semester abroad, including a weekly cleaning service. The building was in the heart of Broadbeach surrounded by a ton of restaurants, shopping centers, and the grocery store which made buying groceries so easy. The bus station was a short 10 minute walk away which made it simple to get around the area and do some sight-seeing. The best part however is that the beach was right across the street and we even had a view of the beach from our apartment, so safe to say that beach days were frequent. TEAN has multiple FREE cultural events that are planned throughout the semester for anyone who want to participate. These events for my semester were some of the highlights of the trip so I highly recommend taking advantage of these. Additionally there were several coffee breaks where we could chat with our residents advisor to discuss any issues we were having, or just talk about how our travels were going across Australia, and again these were all free events. Overall TEAN did an awesome job helping us adjust to the aussie lifestyle and always made sure that we were supported throughout our semester.

happy trekking with new friendsKoala hugenjoying our day

Study Abroad UNSW!!

January 19, 2016by: Sarah

Program: Study Abroad in Sydney, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad in Australia was one of the greatest opportunities/experiences in my 20 years of life. Sydney is a very unique city, and there was always something for us to do or somewhere new for us to explore. Living right on a beach (like actually RIGHT on a beach) was also unbelievable. I've always dreamt of waking up and seeing the beach (cliche, I know), and this was real. School was school, but there was no avoiding that one...its worth the 10 hours! While in Australia I had the opportunity to travel to places that I only could have imagined traveling to. In terms of TEAN, I don't have a single bad thing to say about this program! They planned everything from our orientation, accommodation, schooling, bridge climb, surf lessons, and many other activities all of which were included in our price of tuition!

This was the backyard of our apartment in Coogee

The Trip of a Lifetime

January 14, 2016by: Alex Novak - Burlington, VT

Program: Study Abroad in Dunedin, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

The Education Abroad Network (TEAN) helped to thoroughly exceed my expectations of what studying abroad would be like. Their orientation process strayed from the norm of ice breaker games and classroom setting information meetings. Instead, all of the students were taken to a tiny island resort in Fiji. This little stint in paradise helped to align friendships that would last throughout the semester. Once we got to New Zealand, TEAN staff both in the States and in New Zealand helped facilitate student life by helping answer questions, set up social events, and organize group dinners and trips. Although the South Island is generally sparsely populated, Dunedin is nothing short of a city. With the University of Otago delivering about 40k students to the population, college life is a huge influence on the nature of the city. There are plenty of sightseeing opportunities, restaurants/bars, and shopping centers within a few minutes' walk. If city life isn't your thing, there are outdoor activities such as tramping, skiing, and biking within a few hours' drive. Enjoy!!!

When can I go back?

January 14, 2016by: Kelsey - Boston

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Everyone tells you that abroad is the best time of your life and it couldn't be more true. You cross more things off your bucket list than you could ever imagine. Having a program that helps immerse you into a new culture and provide you with everything you need really helps make abroad that much easier to adjust to. That's exactly what TEAN did for me. Whether it was constantly keeping me up to date on upcoming local events, or providing us with spring break or semester excursions, or even simply asking me how my day was to make sure I'm having the time of my life, TEAN made absolutely every effort to make sure I was comfortable in the new environment and getting the most out of my abroad experience.

having fun in the sun with friendsGold Coastsea turtle

Should Have Never Left Australia

January 14, 2016by: Connor McHugh - Colchester, CT

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

It is no exaggeration when I say that my time abroad was the greatest experience of my life. From the beautiful places I saw, the amazing food I ate, and the incredible people I met along the way, there is not a day that goes by when I don't think about my time in Australia. Although I was only there for 5 months, I did so much. I branched out and tried and did somethings that were definitely out of my comfort zone, but it helped me grow as a person. From petting a tiger, surfing, bungie jumping, and traveling a different continent by myself, my study abroad experience has definitely changed who I am, and for the better.

The Best Decision of My Life

January 13, 2016by: Hadleigh Lepianka - Feeding Hills, MA

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Overall TEAN was truly amazing during this experience and assisted me so much throughout my journey. They provided us with numerous excursions that were so much fun and great opportunities to make new friends. Our representatives abroad were so easy to talk to whenever we needed to, and one of them even helped me get a part time job while abroad. My experience abroad was nothing short of amazing and I wish I could do it all over again.

skydiving

Volunteering in Lima

January 11, 2016by: Alexis Collier - Lincoln University, PA

Program: Community Engagement in Lima, Peru with WorldStrides

4

Overall the experience was excellent. The locations where I conducted volunteer work were very flexible in terms of the hours that I needed to complete. In addition, the people I worked with were very friendly and patient in terms of the language barrier. Moreover there are a variety of volunteer opportunities abroad. I recommend this program to anyone looking for a volunteer experience abroad.

My Adventures in Lima

January 11, 2016by: Alexis Collier - Lincoln University, PA

Program: Study Abroad in Lima, Peru with WorldStrides

4

Overall my experience in Lima was absolutely amazing. It was my first study abroad experience and has definitely enticed me to continue studying abroad (I studied abroad in Ecuador the Spring following my experience in Lima). The Program administration for ISA are very patient and helpful. They do a great job of showing us around the city and familiarizing us with the public transportation. In addition, they provide opportunities for us to travel to different parts of Peru, such as the Amazon Jungle and the Sand Dunes. A trip to Machu Picchu was already included in the Program costs! And believe me, Machu Picchu is one of the most beautiful places you will ever see (when you decide to go ;))! In terms of the actual city of Lima, there are tons of fun activities for young people to engage in, such as paragliding, Karaoke, salsa classes/ salsa clubs, shopping, Inca Markets, Museums, Parks, and so much more. You will never be bored! Moreover, there are many restaurants that serve food at very affordable prices and the Peruvian cuisine is delicious! I think I gained a good 5 pounds while living there. When I wasn't exploring the city of Lima, I was attending classes and spending time with my host mother. The classes and class work are manageable and resources are available if you need extra help. My only complaint in terms of academics is the lack of variety and lack of abundance of available classes. One other thing that prospective students should worry about is safety. I would not recommend traveling alone at night. Travel in groups of at least 4. This make taxis less expensive as well because you can split the taxis four ways. In addition, students should use radio taxis late in the night instead street taxis because radio taxis are known to be much safer. They are a little more expensive than street taxis but it is worth it to know that you are safe. Also, please please do not carry anything of value on you if it is not absolutely necessary (iphone, camera, passport). I know that you will want to pictures, so plan what days you want to take pictures and bring a group of people with you. Be careful! Put your money in different locations on your person when you do carry money ( bra, pockets, shoes). Don't worry too much! You are going to have a great experience. Remember to come with an open mind and be willing to immerse yourself into a different culture. I highly recommend this program.

The Best 5 Months of My Life

January 05, 2016by: Sarah Gloninger - Pittsburgh

Program: Study Abroad at University of Sydney with WorldStrides

5

My study abroad experience surpassed my expectations in every possible way. I found a family away from home in the TEAN staff and the fellow students embarking on the adventure. I felt so safe while I was across the world while at the same time being challenged by all that TEAN had to offer. I met Australian friends, got involved on campus, traveled the beautiful country, and left with a desire to return and continue traveling for the rest of my life. I can never thank TEAN enough for the gift that they gave me.

Experience of a life time

December 31, 2015by: Wendy Potter - East Lansing

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

Choosing to go to Thailand was the best decision I've ever made. I was looking for a place that I hadn't heard anybody else had gone to for a study abroad, and Thailand was the perfect option that pushed me out of my comfort zone, while still feeling comfortable. Choosing TEAN as my program, I wasn't expecting how well they were going to treat us. It was extraordinary how they treated us like family, not just another number in the program. Since we were such a small group of people, they truly cared for each one of us and were concerned with how we adapted to the culture around us. The orientation week hosted by TEAN slowly transitioned us into the lifestyle of Thais, and also helped us to adapt to the time change. We went to various cool and hip cafes around Chiang Mai, went to an Elephant Nature Park for day where we were able to learn about the mistreatment of elephants in SE Asia, and we went to a village home stay for a week where we were fully immersed in a Thai household. Without TEAN, I would not have had the amazing experience that I had while I was there for 4 and a half months.

Teaching kids in a village school in the village homestayAngkor Wat- ancient kingdom in CambodiaMekong Delta- Vietnam (Spring Break)

No Worries Mate, Just Go!

December 16, 2015by: Zach Wildofsky - Springfield, OH

Program: Study Abroad in Sydney, Australia with WorldStrides

5

If you asked me if studying abroad was worth all of the hassle, the money and the being away from your family and friends I would be like: ooooohhhh yeahhhhh! It cost me a fair amount but it was totally worth every single 5 cent piece (Australia doesn't have pennies). Studying abroad will literally be the best time of your life so just do it! I really learned how to experience and appreciate other cultures and other people. I learned how to handle whatever was thrown at me, and believe me there will be a lot of crazy circumstances you will go through while abroad. I learned that everything will be alright in the end no matter how bad things may seem. I learned how to constantly live out of my comfort zone and I loved it. Most importantly, I learned how to be an Aussie!

ready for the roadtripKalbarri National Parkmeet my friend the kangaroo

The Best Four Months

December 14, 2015by: Erin - North Easton

Program: Study Abroad in Dunedin, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad in Dunedin with TEAN was the best four months of my life. Being able to leave home for a semester and see the world was an experience I will never forget. TEAN made this transition so easy: from the group flights, to monthly activities planned, and even giving us some suggestions of where to travel. The South Island was perfect for me because of the endless hiking tracks, ski mountains, camp sites, bungy jumping, and breathtaking scenery around every corner. I also had the opportunity to visit three other countries (Australia, Fiji, and Tonga) and explore the majority of New Zealand all within my semester abroad, which was incredible! Dunedin is very easy to adapt to and make a home, especially with everything TEAN did to help us adjust. I still consider Dunedin my home!

BEST SEMESTER OF MY EXISTENCE!

December 09, 2015by: Michaela Kaplan

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

The title says it all. Studying abroad in Australia with TEAN was hands down, the best decision I ever made in my life. I don't think anything in my future years will compare to this unforgettable experience I had. I made friendships that will last a lifetime, I gained so much confidence and independence in myself, I learned how much traveling fills me, I gained a different perspective of the world we live in, I became an excellent packer, I learned to manage and prioritise money, I pushed boundaries I never thought I would even come near... the list could go on forever. Not to mention, the amazing program of TEAN which made the experience the best it could have been. The orientation was one of my favorite weeks of the entire semester, as well as the incredible pre-semester excursion/TEAN excursions provided. I decided to go abroad not knowing anyone, and that made the experience ever more exciting. All of orientation was an absolute blast meeting all these different people you get to spend the rest of the semester with. The TEAN staff were so helpful, I felt like I could go to any of them at any time with any questions/concerns/recommendations. The way the entire semester was organized made me feel very comfortable my entire time abroad. I wouldn't have changed anything about the experience for the world. If I had the money to go back tomorrow, I would!

baby kangarooKarlu Karlu / Devils Marbles Conservation ReserveThank you TEAN!

Crusading Christchurch

December 08, 2015by: Megan Scully - Vermont

Program: Study Abroad in Christchurch, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

I absolutely loved everything about New Zealand. TEAN does an amazing job helping students to accomplish their dreams of studying abroad. The pre-semester excursions were a huge upsell to this program compared to others. Out of all the students I talked to from other programs, I can confidently say that I would choose TEAN again and again with no regrets.

El Mejor Momento de mi Vida

December 07, 2015by: Savohna - Dallas

Program: Community Engagement in Lima, Peru with WorldStrides

4

I had an incredible experience in Lima and it all started with the perfect placement with my host family. I stayed in a beautiful home (the spa-like bathroom was the best!) and very caring host parents. They treated me like their own child which made the transition so smooth. They took my roommates and I to the park, restaurants, and to local shows that gave us a real taste of Peru. I miss them so much! Michelle and Danny from ISA were also amazing! I really loved how Michelle went out of her way to find me an internship at a fashion school! It showed that she really pays attention every individual in the program and wants to make sure everyone finds the right fit. She introduced us to her family and her knowledge of Peru was incredible. She, Danny, and Kelly were always available and easy to talk to which made the experience that much more fun. My internship at Chio Lecca Fashion School was probably my favorite part of studying abroad. There, I got to practice my Spanish and partake in activities that forced me to come out of my shell. I met amazing women and even got to go to my first fashion show! I'm not even exaggerating when I say it was the absolute best! I still talk to many of my coworkers now two years later. I remember being too nervous to live abroad for five months, but I was fortunate to have had the opportunity to live in a country rich with culture and beautiful people both inside and out.

My roommates and host parentsLomo saltado yum!Internship: Chio Lecca

TEAN made the ABSOLUTE best 5 months of my life possible!

November 27, 2015by: Mia K. - Ann Arbor

Program: Study Abroad in Melbourne, Australia with WorldStrides

5

I am so incredibly thankful that I decided to study abroad in Australia through TEAN. They were the most organized, helpful, accommodating, and just wonderful people. They had a resident advisor who was amazing and helped us get more acclimated into the Melbourne/ Australian life and also had events throughout the semester to facilitate this even more. TEAN is the number one study abroad program in my opinion! I 100% recommend people studying abroad to go through TEAN!! Studying abroad was honestly the best thing I have ever done. Even though I had done quite a bit of traveling in my life, I had never been alone in a different country, literally on the other side of the world. It was incredibly liberating and eye-opening. It was wonderful to experience the way academics are in a different part of the world, especially at the best university in Australia. I definitely felt the rigor, but academics is very important there. I loved learning in a different setting than what I am used to at the University of Michigan. I honestly felt like a new person once I got back to the States. I was able to truly get immersed into the culture in Melbourne which was incredible. Melbourne offers so much, from an AMAZING music and arts scene, to wonderful food (and veg friendly food!!), amazing nature areas, the beach super close by, and just an amazing amount of diversity in terms of people and cultures. It was incredible to be immersed in such a cultured environment. I met some of the most wonderful people during my time in Melbourne. I saw some of the most amazing sights both around Melbourne, and in Australia in general. And I had the absolute best time of my life. Studying abroad changed my perspective on my own life, as well as my views of other countries and the world in general. I think it is so important to see and experience other places to really fully understand the world and the environment around us. It is such a wonderful personal growth experience!!

trees

Highlight of my Life

November 24, 2015by: Aleks

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

I loved every minute of my semester abroad at Bond Uni! I was nervous to go half way around the world, but the TEAN program made my whole experience stress free by preparing me before my trip and providing support during my time in Australia. Orientation in Sydney was amazing and only the beginning of my travels, since I also got to experience Melbourne, the Whitsunday Islands, Byron Bay, and Bali. I'm so glad I made the decision to study abroad and I'm still wishing to this day that I could go back and do it again! Although it is a study abroad cliche, my semester abroad was life changing and a huge growing experience. I could not recommend Bond and TEAN enough!

Lima La Vida Loca!

November 19, 2015by: Husky08 - oxford

Program: Community Engagement in Lima, Peru with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad in Lima, Peru with ISA was my first study abroad experience and it was amazing! In fact, I loved it so much that I chose to study abroad again in South America two semesters later! I lived in Lima, Peru for 10 weeks with a host family. The first four weeks of my experience was spent taking classes and the last six weeks was dedicated to volunteer service at Casa McDonald del Peru and with Aprendo Contigo at Hospital del Nino. During the first month, I spent much of my time exploring the dynamic city of Lima. The city is so beautiful and vibrant. I loved the food, the rocky beautiful beaches, the museums, the night life, the cute little Inca Markets, and, most of all, the very patient and helpful program administrators.When I wasn't touring downtown Lima or Paragliding in Miraflores, I was studying for my classes. The professors were very friendly and both of my business classes were taught in English. Before delving into my volunteering experience, I must comment on the trip to Machu Picchu! This trip is already including in the cost of the program. Machu Picchu is one of the seven wonders of the world and rightfully so as it is the most beautiful and majestic monument that I have ever seen. Our trip to Cusco, without a doubt, is one the most memorable moments of my study abroad experience. The last 6 weeks of my trip were spent volunteering at two locations: Aprendo Contigo and Casa McDonald del Peru. The administrators and leaders at both locations were extremely patient in terms of the language barrier. They really welcomed all of the American volunteers and helped us improve our Spanish. While working with Aprendo Contigo, I worked very closely with ill children. The experience was very valuable because it taught me how to interact with patients and it gave me a little bit of insight on healthcare in Peru. For example, while I was there, I learned that many of the doctors in the public hospitals were on strike because they wanted higher wages. Conversely, while working at Casa McDonald del Peru, I had very little contact with ill children. Although they were living with their guardians in the house, most of the children spend most of the day in the hospital. My duties were to help out around the house in any way that was needed. My favorite aspect of volunteering here was the relationship I was able to build with the residents as well as the other volunteers. Overall my volunteer experiences at both locations were very fulfilling emotionally and mentally. I highly recommend this program.

You MUST study abroad in SYDNEY with TEAN!

November 16, 2015by: Madison Pitts

Program: Study Abroad in Sydney, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Sydney is the best city ever and there are so many fun things to do! TEAN goes above and beyond to make sure you have the best study abroad experience possible. They offer awesome weekend, pre-semester and semester break excursions that are a must do. You start the program with an orientation in Sydney filled with awesome activities which give you a chance to get to know everyone before the school starts. The staff is so great and they do really fun activities for TEAN participants throughout the semester. Also, the offer beach housing which is a must do.

Morocco Rocks!!

November 12, 2015by: Eiman Elmileik

Program: Community Engagement in Meknes, Morocco with WorldStrides

5

Through the ISA Service-Learning Program I was able to volunteer at the Rita Zniber Foundation, an organization that provides a home for abandoned children in Meknes, Morocco. The kids that I worked with at the foundation were some of the strongest people I'v ever come across. Although they've had to endure a lot of misery and trauma at such a young age, they still choose to persevere and be joyful. I was greatly inspired by all of the kids and staff at Rita Zniber. I will always cherish the ISA experience for allowing me the opportunity to step out of my comfort zone and work in an environment that I would not have otherwise had the opportunity to work in. In addition to the volunteer experience, we went on weekly trips to some of the most amazing/beautiful places in Morocco. It was a great balance of work and play and I will cherish my abroad experience for a lifetime.

Professional Adventure Gone Right!

November 03, 2015by: Chris Watson - Orange, California
5

I knew I wanted to go to Shanghai, it's the business capital of the world! But my mandarin was absolutely sub-par, and living in a country without knowing anyone or its customs is a huge gamble. The thing is, I also knew I wanted to be the best in my field and that being able to succeed internationally meant I could succeed domestically as well. So I took the leap. The ISA group was there every step of the way when I needed them. They didn't hold my hand, but they didn't let me into the wild without preparing me for what was in the 12 weeks to come. The only real commitment I had to give was a willingness to step out of my comfort zone. The result? An unbelievable experience that furthered my hard professional skills and landed me a job upon returning to the U.S., two new international best friends, and an adventure I wouldn't trade for the world. I highly advise this to anyone looking to gain professional, personal and international experience.

Yu'nan GardenLujiazui District, downtown ShanghaiGlobal Harbor in Putuo District

Deep in the East

October 29, 2015by: Juleon Asefi

Program: Study Abroad in Shanghai, China with WorldStrides

5

As a returning student and traveler to Shanghai, China I can only reflect back on so many highlights of my trip. From traveling to attractions such as the great wall to just exploring the community where a resided in the Yangpu district. It was eye opening to see so many different features of life in person such as the architecture, culture, geography and lifestyle. At first I was a bit apprehensive about how my experience would unfold because of the my uncertainty of how I would adjust to notable things like the language and customs. Then after awhile, I grew more comfortable and confident being out on my own because I started to become really familiar with my surroundings and agenda. Fudan, was a great university to attend especially because it was very laid-back. Being a international I feel like one worry we share going into a traveling experience is the depth of the education we'll receive abroad. Fudan provided a huge amount of resources but it was interesting to explore a whole school database written in another language. I can't stress enough how much TEAN has contributed to my experience with the inclusions and 360 degree support from start to finish. Highly recommend choosing to travel with them.

Best 4 Months of My Life

October 26, 2015by: Mike - Greater Boston Area, MA

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Every day in Australia was the next best day of my life, for 4 months straight. I had so many expectations for the program through The Education Abroad Network (TEAN) and Bond University, and my time abroad was above and beyond every single one of those expectations. The people were some of the friendliest and outgoing people, eager to welcome you into their country. The landscapes are so vast and extraordinary, they will blow your mind away. The university itself, will make you rethink why you didn't just go there for all four years undergrad. And you will leave, the saddest person in the world, because nothing will ever compare.

Time of my life!

October 26, 2015by: Maddy McLean - Burlington

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

I studied at Bond University through The Education Abroad Network (TEAN) and I loved every single minute of it! TEAN was extremely helpful throughout the entire application process and helped me feel 100% prepared to make the leap and live half way around the world. I lived in the beach housing at Broadbeach and TEAN did a fantastic job of matching me up with roommates that I got along with. The people I met through TEAN ended up being my best friends and I still keep in touch with many of them. Bond was only a 15 minute bus ride away and the academics were extremely interesting. I took a few cultural classes that really helped me immerse myself into the Aussie culture, and TEAN also held cultural immersion events. As far as traveling goes, Bond has a travel agency right on campus to help you get where ever you want to go! With their help, I went to the Whitsundays, Moreton Island, Melbourne, and New Zealand. I also went on the post-semester trip to Fiji through TEAN which was definitely a highlight of my entire abroad experience! I recommend this program to anyone who is looking for new adventures and new experiences in an extremely friendly environment. Truly a once in the lifetime opportunity!

A Semester in Newy

October 22, 2015by: Catherine T. - Amherst

Program: Study Abroad in Newcastle, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Now that I'm back, it feels like my time abroad was a dream. It was the absolute best experience I've had in my life! When you hear people say that studying abroad changed their lives, listen. It's true! The University of Newcastle was great! The academics were challenging, but not too overwhelming, which I am thankful for because it allowed me to also be able to both become more educated and be able to explore such a beautiful country. I was able to live on campus, as well, which I loved. I lived with all Australians and really was able to learn about Australian culture and immerse myself in it! I am so glad that I decided to go abroad with TEAN. As someone who struggled with the financial aspect, they worked with me to make sure I could go abroad, and whenever I had a question, I felt like I could go to them and ask. They honestly want to help students have this incredible experience. The TEAN employees that worked with us in Sydney were a blast and taught us a lot about the country. And when it was time to go to our respective cities and move into our living arrangements, they took care of everything. I was the only one living in the dorms on the campus, and one of the TEAN employees helped me move all my bags in and made sure that everything was okay. It's more helpful than you could imagine to have people there for you when you're so far from home! If I could offer up any advice, I'd say this: For one, save!!! Australia is an expensive country and the cost of living feels a lot higher. However, there are a lot of fun things to do that are super inexpensive, so don't fret if you don't feel like you aren't enough money with you. Second, just apply. GO ABROAD! Go to Newy. You won't have a single regret except for wishing you had done it sooner and stayed longer.

Mereweather beach in Newcastle!Posing with the Opera House!Floating in the Bogey Hole in Newcastle!

Australia Always Astonishes

October 19, 2015by: Jason

Program: Study Abroad in Sydney, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Going on a 5 week study abroad program alone may sound a bit terrifying at first. Fortunately, all of the staff ensured that we felt comfortable from the very beginning. They took care of all travel problems which took a huge weight off my shoulders. Classes were challenging but very interesting because of the extremely joyful UNSW professors. Every day brought a new surprise and gave me a new memory, especially skydiving 14,000 feet through the clouds the day after our final. I can only hope to return to the most amazing place on Earth one day.

The Best Experience of My Life

October 16, 2015by: Kendra

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Choosing to study abroad was the best decision I've ever made. I originally decided to for personal growth reasons; I wanted to push myself out of my comfort zone. Not only did I learn so much about myself but I also learned how to efficiently budget my money, discovered a career interest in sustainability, and developed a love for travelling and meeting new people! TEAN was extremely helpful through every step of the process, from the moment I decided to study abroad to my last day in Australia. I strongly recommend TEAN if you're looking for a program that establishes open and constant communication with you and is both structurally organized and knowledgeable about the area. Some key parts of my experience: Housing: I lived in beach housing at the Mantra Sierra Grand, which is about a two minute walk away from the beach. The view from the balcony of the city and the ocean was breathtaking and the rooms were so much more than I ever would have expected. Easily the nicest place I have ever lived in throughout my college career. Academics: Classes at uni are set up completely different from at home. However, I found that I actually enjoyed the class layout. Lectures are meant for listening and taking notes while tutorials are very discussion based; I loved the way classes and assignments were designed to foster creativity. Grades were based mostly off of papers and class content was engaging. Cultural Appreciation: Through my classes and travels, I met many people from all over the world. This helped me to gain an appreciation for other cultures and a desire to travel the world. TEAN also set up many opportunities for us to attend cultural events in order to become immersed in the Aussie culture. TEAN: There's no other program that I would choose. TEAN was right there with me helping every step of the way. It's clear that the administration is organized and knows how to efficiently transition students into a new environment. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable about the area. I also love that TEAN offered excursions to other cities in Australia and even to other countries! The excursions were priced reasonably and every day was filled with the "must do" activities of the area. It was a chance to meet more people and it took away the stress of having to plan trips by yourself. Thank you TEAN for the most amazing experience!!

Gold CoastAmazing scenerysky diving

Comparative Program organized by TEAN

October 16, 2015by: Daniel Raza - Connecticut

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

I was very fortunate to go abroad with TEAN to both Thailand and Cambodia. TEAN provided an extensive cultural exposure, which I was very satisfied with. They had tons of activities planned for us the week we got to Thailand. There a lot of free trips that are offered by TEAN when you go as well. The first week of orientation was the best. We went to an elephant sanctuary and ate different kinds of traditional meals and received a full 2 hour Thai massage (to get relieved from the flight--TEANS complementary :D) .. I think out of all the programs, Tean was very effective in immersing its students to the culture abroad. We were challenged on a daily basis in different ways. They really care about the students and try to accommodate everyone. The TEAN staff was very well organized, and easily approachable. They made sure that each student was safe through out the program as well. My best trip from TEAN was the Krabi trip (complementary) that we took. It was very well organized. We got to island hop and I loved it.

My New Whanau in New Zealand

October 14, 2015by: Kristy Plaza - Los Angeles

Program: Study Abroad in Auckland, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

There were many aspects of my trip that I loved. I loved learning how to code and use photoshop in my web design class. I loved learning Japanese and enhancing my photography skills. I LOVED the food and have a delicious lamb kebab once a week. The TEAN advisors and program was a huge reason of why my time was so fun. Kenneth, Sam, and Rachel, the advisors, were always available. There were many times when they would pop in and check up with me, just to talk and see how I was doing. And they organized many fun trips and events. We had surfing lessons, which I've never done- odd considering I've lived in Southern California my whole life. And we had group dinner when we first got to Auckland and then right before we left. At that point, it was hard to say goodbye to the people who had your back every step of the way and the new friends you made. But what made my trip was being welcomed into the Maori community. One of my classes allowed me to learn some Maori and become immersed into the culture. And through this class, I got to know many Maori people and international people. And we all became Whanau for life! We become a close-knit group of people who spent time with each other, growing, learning, and eating. I still keep in contact with my whanau, because these are the people that were there for me and supported my long nights coding, helped me with my Japanese, and braved skydiving with me. No matter what you do, it's the friends you make that will be there with you every step of the way! I can’t wait to go back one day soon!

Aucklandexploring Auckland with a friend

A New Adventure!

October 14, 2015by: Kaden Colton - Salt Lake City

Program: Study Abroad in Christchurch, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

I had a great time while I was at University of Canterbury. It was great being able to work with people that are passionate in their field of study. I had a great time interacting with many people from New Zealand and around the world. I did so many things in such a short amount of time.

While In Hagley Park, I enjoyed seeing all the green.

Victoria University of Wellington 2012 Academic year

September 24, 2015by: Scott Carney - Fort Collins, Colorado

Program: Study Abroad in Wellington, New Zealand - Massey University

4

My ability to grow as an individual throughout my study abroad experience in New Zealand was in large part added by ISA study abroad. One of the best aspects of studying through is the Bridging Cultures orientation, where within the first five days of arriving to the country I was able to acclimate and form relationships with other Americans through white water rafting, caving and hot spring adventures. ISA has amazing on-site staff as well, and in Wellington, they made an effort to round up all of the program participants for a dinner at least once a trimester to see if everyone has adjusted to New Zealand life and university. I strongly recommend studying abroad with ISA because of the helpfulness of on-site staff, included excursions and lifelong friends you will make!

Haka!

An Unforgettable Five Months

August 29, 2015by: Meredith Marcus

Program: Study Abroad at University of Sydney with WorldStrides

5

I am thankful every day that I made the decision to study abroad with TEAN. TEAN permitted me to fully immerse myself in Australia's culture. The housing option TEAN set up allowed me to live in the heart of Sydney and experience the city on my own. I was able to explore my surroundings and meet amazing new people that have changed my life for the better. I always felt as though I had a support system while studying in Australia as well as having full independence and control over my experience. That is what I found so amazing about TEAN, it was not an overbearing program. If I needed anything TEAN was there but the program also allotted me the ability to explore the country on my own and truly grow as a person. I cannot imagine a life without my study abroad experience with TEAN. Again and again people ask me if I had the opportunity to do it all over again if I would still choose TEAN. And every time my response does not change, again and again I say yes and promote studying abroad with TEAN to anyone and everyone that will listen.

beachwildernessexploring the sea

What TEAN offers is beyond words, This program facilitated the best six months of my life!

August 24, 2015by: Katie F. - Eugene, OR

Program: Study Abroad in Melbourne, Australia with WorldStrides

5

I don’t think I could have made a better decision than to study abroad at the University of Melbourne through The Education Abroad Network. The TEAN program surpassed my expectations in every way and facilitated the best six months of my life. In Melbourne, there was always something to do. If I wasn't spending the day hiking and exploring the bush in the Dandenong Ranges or Mornington Peninsula, you could find me down alleyways looking for the tastiest food, the best coffee, or new and upcoming artists in the heart of Melbourne's CBD. I am a HUGE foodie, which is probably why I loved Melbourne as much as I did. Melbourne is the food, coffee, and music capitol of Australia and for a good reason. On a Saturday morning, the whole CBD smells of brunch, as delicious smells waft from every direction. I probably spent most of my money on exploring new restaurants and eateries, while becoming a regular at a few. I followed a few food bloggers from Melbourne and found myself exploring further and further out into the different suburbs of Melbourne, literally eating my way through the city. We lived in the heart of Melbourne right on the edge of the CBD (central business district, aka downtown). I never knew how much I enjoyed city life until my study abroad experience and I didn’t want to leave! Living in the CBD meant that we were never more than a short walk or tram ride from wherever we wanted to go. With music festivals, farmers markets, coffee classes, and adventure clubs, Melbourne was never short on excitement. The city itself had an awesome vibe that thrived on street art, performers, and the diverse communities that make up the surrounding suburbs. If you have been to Portland, Oregon, that would give you a taste of what Melbourne has to offer. Along with orientation, mid-term trips, and Spring Break trips to Thailand and New Zealand (which both are beyond amazing), TEAN does a great job at ensuring that each student has the best study abroad experience possible. TEAN provides students with Resident directors in their chosen cities that make the experience of studying abroad even more amazing! Studying through The Education Abroad Network was a great decision as it streamlined and organized the process, while ensuring that my study abroad experience was nothing less than amazing! Studying Abroad taught me to embrace new cultures, seize opportunities, and inflamed my desire to travel the world. The Education Abroad Network program provided me with incredible opportunities that I wouldn’t have gotten anywhere else!

The Melbourne TEAN Crew

An amazing adventure

August 23, 2015by: Claire Hillgren - Oxford

Program: Study Abroad in Sydney, Australia with WorldStrides

5

My time at UNSW through The Education Abroad Network was the most amazing experience. In just one semester abroad I learned more than I ever thought possible and met people from all over the world. The university itself was an amazing experience- coming from a small school to a large university (over 50,000 students) was daunting but TEAN and the International Office at UNSW were so helpful and welcoming that the transition was easy and exciting. The off campus accommodation was so beautiful and convenient- just a short walk to the beach and a quick bus ride to campus. I had never lived near a beach before so that is something that drew me to TEAN but the area also had the city feel that I was looking for too.

AMAZING EXPERIENCE

August 20, 2015by: ilovejordan
5

i went for just one month. First off, you are going to get homesick in the beginning. All of us were Americans and we immediately fell homesick when getting there because obviously it is nothing like what we are used to in the United States. 1. i met AMAZING people who i will be friends with forever 2. the homesickness wore off after about a week and we had a great time 3. Mohammad and Zaynab were AMAZING and there for us 24/7 4. We had freedom to go wherever we wanted whenever. 5. safety was NEVER a concern. Obviously like any other big cites you should be in group (especially the women) 6. food was amazing! 7. people were great 8. the excursions we took were also amazing!!! 9. our rooms were huge and above what we expected 10. i would do it all over again

Like nothing else

August 20, 2015by: Sierra Starkey - Gainesville, FL

Program: Study Abroad in Perth, Australia with WorldStrides

5

I have been abroad before, but never like this. Choosing TEAN and the wildlife, environment and conservation trip was one of the best choices I could have made. The experiences were incredible and everyone worked hard to make sure that we were learning and that we were having a great time. It was just the right amount of work and play. I learned so much in those five short weeks, it was an experience I will never forget. We traveled through what seemed like half of australia and got to meet and work with so many natives, as well as really get out in the field and see the things we were learning about. This trip doesn't relate to my major, and in honesty, I would highly recommend that for someone. I learned so much about something that I don't usually study, but something that I am passionate about, and now want to continue doing.

Best Experience Ever!

August 20, 2015by: Ronit Dastidar - Tampa

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

The Chiang Mai summer program provided the perfect introduction to studying abroad. The TEAN staff and professors were extremely helpful in helping us adjust to a totally new culture. Additionally, the group of students that I traveled with was absolutely amazing; I've made life-long friends from all around the US. TEAN was really helpful in our pre-planning, arrival in Chiang Mai, and setting us up at CMU and Uniloft. We had three representatives present in Chiang Mai, who we could call if we ever needed anything. All logistical items were handled before we even got there, so our transition was very smooth. Our housing was spectacular, probably better than at my home university. We lived at Uniloft, which is a hybrid dorm/apartment student-living complex that is only a 5 minute walk from the university's back gate. The complex has a great location and awesome amenities; there's 2 swimming pools, study rooms, multiple ATMs, gym, laundry service, and a 7-11. There's so many bars, restaurants, and cafes nearby (even a cat cafe!); street food stalls are a three minute walk away and stay open till 2am! We shared a room with our Thai roommate. The size of the rooms are large enough, and you can close off your door for privacy. The private bathrooms are western-style and very clean. Overall, Uniloft is the perfect place for students. I was really happy with how the program encouraged us to get a more authentic experience. By rooming with Thai students, we were able to learn about their favorite places to eat, local nightlife, resources on campus, how to stay polite in social interactions, and fun places to hangout. I had a great time touring the country with my roommate and was honored when he took me to his hometown to meet his family. The program really shows you the breadth of Thai society and culture. In class, we studied topics ranging from history to Buddhism, which were able to apply by visiting local temples, landmarks, and NGOs. By far, my favorite part was the Thai village home-stay. By living in a village for several days, we saw a totally different side of Thailand, the hardworking life of the rural populations. Overall, this program definitely integrated us well. By the end, we were able to speak some phrases in Thai and advise other travelers about their plans and more. Chiang Mai is super safe! There was NEVER a time that I felt unsafe. Uniloft has multiple security guards that patrol the building 24/7, so nothing ever happened there. CMU also has its own security team to patrol campus. Around the city, there's nothing really to look out for. Everyone is really nice and minds their own business. During the day, we often broke off into small groups or even individually to tour the city and nothing ever happened. At night, we never got into any trouble either, even when we would come back from a night out at like 4am. Overall, Chiang Mai is extremely safe. The living accommodations are out of the old city, which is a more touristy area and has the potential for more crime (even though nothing ever happens). Just take the same precautions you do when you are your home university; stay in groups, don't walk alone at night, and be mindful of your surroundings.

Great Program! Would do it again in a heartbeat!

August 18, 2015by: Erik Dassoff

Program: Study Abroad in Christchurch, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

Before I even left for New Zealand, I was already impressed with The Education Abroad Network. I was amazed at how organized and efficient they were and at how smoothly the whole process of becoming ready to study abroad with TEAN was. Once I left for New Zealand, I continued to have a great experience with this program as well. I think that this program does a good job of making the whole experience a comprehensive one in that they've been able to successfully combine culture, academics, friendships, adventure, and a lot of fun into one program. The pre-semester excursion to Fiji was such a blast! With TEAN, you're lucky enough to be able to enjoy a couple days chilling on the beach meeting great friends, snorkeling, and talking to locals and walking through the local village all before travelling to Auckland for a program orientation and then travelling to your school. I met a lot of friends because of this aspect of TEAN and it made the rest of my study abroad experience that much more enjoyable because I had people to travel with or meet up with when I travelled to various other cities in New Zealand. Another Fantastic aspect of TEAN was the option to travel to Thailand for a mid-semester excursion. I was so glad that I took this opportunity and I would definitely recommend this trip to any future TEAN participant. I think that the Thailand trip is an opportunity that you wouldn't be able to have with many other study abroad programs. I truly felt that The Education Abroad Network was a unique program that afforded me travel as well as various cultural opportunities that I wouldn't have been able to do if I wasn't a part of this program. I had a wonderful experience at the University of Canterbury more specifically as well. I was placed in a nice, modern apartment with four kiwi flat mates who I still talk to occasionally. I had a couple fantastic professors at UC too. One standout class that I think is an excellent choice for international students to take to get a feel for Christchurch would be CHCH 101 with Billy O'Steen. I thoroughly enjoyed that class. Overall, I liked the University of Canterbury. The staff there was good and my time there went very smoothly. I especially enjoyed Christchurch; It's quite a unique and intriguing city with a lot of creative people who are working to brighten up the city during its rebuild. TEAN NZ at Christchurch is a wonderful program and I definitely recommend it to anyone interested in studying abroad.

The Best Four Months Abroad!!!

August 17, 2015by: Jordan - Ft. Thomas, Kentucky

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Going abroad to Gold Coast, Australia was one of the best decisions I've ever made! I loved every single things about it and would totally do it all over again. The school, Bond University, was great and I loved all the teachers and Australian students I met. I also loved where I lived, which was right on the beach. It was close to so much shopping, nightlife, and outdoor adventure. I traveled all around Australia and even to New Zealand. At the end I went on The Education Abroad Network's (TEAN) amazing Fiji trip! I think about my experience everyday and am so thankful for TEAN for helping make it all happen!

Orientation at the Gatsby Mansion in Sydney!

Happiest 5 Months of my Life

August 13, 2015by: Sophie - Boston

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

In the 5 months I was abroad in Thailand with TEAN, I have never been happier. TEAN sets you up with a Thai roommate which was a great aspect that not all programs do. We got to learn about the culture through them as well as the classes we were taking in our time abroad. TEAN also organizes a village home-stay, monthly dinners, excursions and a weekend trip to Krabi. Living in the village was another great way to learn about the Thai culture and people although the language barrier was tough. Regardless, I have never felt so welcome and so at home before in my life than I did in the village and in Chiang Mai. I am so lucky I could call Chiang Mai my home and I strongly encourage you to step out of your comfort zone and spend time with TEAN in Southeast Asia. TEAN does everything they can to make you feel comfortable and prepared for your time abroad. From answering emails, and phone calls to sending out packets describing what to bring and what to expect. I am so happy I chose to go to Thailand with TEAN and I have absolutely no regrets about my time abroad.

posing with elephants

An Adventure I'll Never Forget

August 11, 2015by: Valerie - Chicago

Program: Study Abroad in Perth, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Going abroad was the best opportunity I have ever had and one of the best experiences. I have gained so much from studying abroad in Australia. The Education Abroad Network program gave me the opportunity to go on the greatest adventure with amazing people I met along the way. Being a photography major, this semester gave me the chance to open up to a new environment and explore my talents in a creative and adventurous way. Going abroad has changed my outlook on life and shown me what's important. It was one of the best experiences I've ever had and I couldn't be happier with my decision.

When Can I Go Back?

August 10, 2015by: Kirsty - Ohio

Program: Study Abroad in Wellington, New Zealand

5

All my best friends studied abroad in Europe and when they found out I would be going to New Zealand a lot of them questioned why. However, I have never been more happy with a choice I have made. I got to see a portion of the world that without study abroad and TEAN I don't know if I would have ever experianced. 10,000 miles away from home in a foreign country The Education Abroad Network (TEAN) was always there to provided assistance if I needed it. Without TEAN's pre semester excursion I would never have gone to FIJI and made some life long best friends. TEAN was the best program I could have picked and the various times they provided students with free food throughout the semester just solidified my choice! I can't wait for the day I get to go back to Wellington!

Wellington!FijiBean bag chairs

One-of-a-kind Experience!

August 10, 2015by: Megan Spellman - Durham, NH

Program: Study Abroad in Newcastle, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Going abroad was one of the best decisions I have made in my college career so far! I would recommend doing it to anyone, and further more urge those studying abroad to do it throughout the Education Abroad Network. They made the whole process simple and stress-free. They made me more comfortable going on my own because I knew that I had people to help me on my way and while I was there whenever I needed it. I think my experience would not have been as smooth if I had not done it all with TEAN. They greatly helped in making my time in Australia and experience I will never forget!

An Adventure of a Lifetime

August 03, 2015by: Phillomina Wong - Los Angeles, CA

Program: Study Abroad in Auckland, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad in New Zealand was the adventure of a lifetime. New Zealand is also probably the best country to have new adventures! The Education Abroad Network made it easy to transition into a new country and settle in for 5 months. Before the semester, we went on an adventure in Fiji. We stayed in huts on a beach front and got the full Fiji resort experience. This was the best way to relax before a semester of school. When we arrived in Auckland, New Zealand, they already set up accommodations and events for us to learn about the culture and the people. We stayed at a marae, or a Māori meeting house and went wine tasting. There was a level of comfort being under TEAN's guidance. The residential advisors we met were genuine and interested in what we had to say. They held a helpful orientation about how to act and what to do in New Zealand. Then, one the advisors escorted us to our apartments. Throughout the semester, TEAN hosts a number of events, both in conjunction with the university and independently. The good thing about having a cross-over is how streamlined it is with our university schedules. Some of the events TEAN hosted were some of my favorite experiences. This included: canyoning in Piha, a surf lesson (with transportation included) and going to a rugby game. TEAN really gives you the best student treatment. They go above and beyond for students studying abroad. I can't help but to rave about TEAN! One notable thing about TEAN is how quickly they helped me jump into new adventures. Their enthusiasm and knowledge made me comfortable trying new things.

One of the many islands we saw in FijiI won a canyoning adventure through TEAN. This was one of the first adventures I had in New Zealand!TEAN gave us a voucher to try Auckland's Sky Screamer. There's nothing like defying the laws of gravity with some friends.

Best Semester. Best Program.

July 31, 2015by: Jordan - Rochester, NY

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

TEAN made studying in the Gold Coast the best months of my life. The trips offered through the program such as to Sydney, Cairns and Melbourne made traveling around the country easy and unforgettable. The beach housing offered was in a perfect location in Broadbeach easily accessible to grocery stores, public transportation to uni and other towns, a mall, bars and restaurants, and much more! The walk to the ocean took only minutes. TEAN helped you feel connected to the local culture with trips to local coffee shops, rugby games, and a day of meeting local Aboriginals. I would highly recommend this program and university to any student interested in studying abroad. Gold Coast, Australia was awesome and I can only thank TEAN for the experience.

The iconic Surfers Paradise signView from the top of Mount Warningscuda diving in the Great Barrier Reef

An Adventure Abroad

July 30, 2015by: Valerie Nikas - providence

Program: Study Abroad in Melbourne, Australia with WorldStrides

4

Studying in Australia was the best thing I've ever done. Melbourne is an amazing city that's devoted to the arts and food. Whether you want authentic Chinese dumplings, French belgian waffles, Thai mango rice, Greek gyros, or just a delicious burger, you can get it. If you want to spend your nights in hidden bars dancing to some funk, or checking out a play or concert or art gallery, Melbourne is the place for you. If you need to get away from the city, there are beautiful ranges, mountains, and beaches just a short train ride away. My favorite part about this journey was that you can get anywhere in Australia and the South Pacific (Bali, Thailand, New Zealand, Fiji, Sydney, Cairns to name a few paradises). As for the University of Melbourne, it's considered the best university in Australia. You will be surrounded by bright individuals who are devoted to school. If you find yourself more of an artistic type, opt for RMIT. Both are great schools with great professors and resources. All in all, I met the most amazing people, experienced the most amazing things, and would recommend studying through TEAN to anyone. They are with you every step of the way, give you lots of treats, and plan the most incredible adventures of your life.

Australia. TEAN. Both amazing!

July 23, 2015by: Ryan Balfour - PA

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

I had such an amazing time in Australia and the TEAN study abroad program made it so much better. Australia has always been on my bucket list and I knew it was going to be an epic adventure I didn't think TEAN program could make it even better than imagined. I went on the orientation in Sydney and saw so many places in a couple of days we had there. I visited so many beautiful places like St. Douglas, Byron Bay, couple of rainforests, and Bali. Overall, I wouldn't take anything back!

Whitsundays Island!

Best 4.5 Months of my Life.

July 22, 2015by: Brittany Watson - Charleston

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

Prior to studying abroad everyone I talked to told me one of two things, 1) Do it, it was the best experience of my life 2) Do it, not studying abroad is one of my biggest regrets. I always thought people saying that it was the best experience of their life was cliche and cheesy until I actually studied abroad myself and thats the truth. Its one of my top experiences. I absolutely cannot say enough about TEAN and the Chiang Mai program. It was incredible. My entire experience, from meeting TEAN representatives at a study abroad fair, to actually going abroad with them, and even my relationship with them now that Im back was amazing. They were so helpful, and helped us to make the absolute most of our time abroad. They helped me to find volunteer experiences, gave me advice on what to see, where to go, and the best ways to travel in Southeast Asia. I met friends that I have no doubt will be life long friends, we had so much in common because we valued culture, travel, and adventure. When you study abroad the connections you make are incredible. The living situation was great too! I had a Thai roommate which was one of the most valuable parts of studying with TEAN. Living with her allowed me to make Thai friends, get immersed in Thai culture faster, and practice the language. Anyway long story short, my experience was perfect, TEAN was awesome. Chiang Mai is an amazing part of the world.

Once in a Lifetime

July 21, 2015by: Katie W. - Clemson, SC

Program: Study Abroad in Sydney, Australia with WorldStrides

5

TEAN was a great program to travel across the world with. The set up everything from housing to helping me get my student visa. The classes were challenging, but still had plenty of time to travel and enjoy Sydney! My experience was like no other. I never thought I would get 5 months to travel to the Great Barrier Reef, see the Opera House, and climb a glacier. I would recommend for everyone to study abroad and definitely consider going with TEAN! They provided so many activities for us to participate in like surfing on the famous Bondi Beach and mid semester break excursions to New Zealand. I can't wait until I have the chance to go back to Australia and reminisce on all the good times had! I want to go back!

Coogee Beach Ocean PoolHiking Franz Josef GlacierSydney Harbour Bridge Climb

Best time of my life!

June 25, 2015by: Ursula - Boulder

Program: Study Abroad in Barcelona, Spain with WorldStrides

5

Barcelona is such an amazing and lively city that anyone would be #blessed to study abroad in. I loved every minute of it and had the opportunity to improve my Spanish, travel around Europe and Africa and live in the most beautiful city in the entire world. You're doing study abroad wrong if you don't pick BCN.

The best 5 months of my life!

June 22, 2015by: Whitney W - Gold Coast

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

TEAN far exceeded my expectations of what my study abroad experience would be like. To calling me on the phone to help me decide what program would best fit me, to last minute help the week I was leaving and a fabulous TEAN team in Australia. I could not have been happier with my time there. The housing was out of this world beautiful, literally living on the beach. The city was beautiful and Griffith faculty were so welcoming of us international students. I would relive this experience in a heartbeat, I wish that I was able to study abroad longer!

Incredible. Vast. Unique.

June 17, 2015by: Matt Sirois - Hanover, PA

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

From the pre-departure orientation, to housing, to courses, to excursions, TEAN made sure that everything was not only met as far as needs but went above and beyond to make sure I felt comfortable and happy the entire semester. Every question that came up was met by the staff, both domestically and abroad. They provided plenty of excursions to different parts of Australia, as well as smaller ones just within my city, so get to know the locals and experience Australian culture. The housing itself was unreal, offering a great location and incredible views of the city. We were located just next to a new transit system that took us straight to our university. The courses offered were relevant to my major and were full of both local and international students.

diving in the Great Barrier Reef12 ApostlesSkydiving

The Best Experience of my Life

May 17, 2015by: Dan Huber - Hoboken, NJ

Program: Study Abroad at University of Sydney with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad with TEAN in Sydney was one of the best decisions I have ever made. I went abroad to learn engineering from a new culture and point of view, however it was so much more than that. I made new friends from all over, I went to many exotic places in and around Australia, and had incredible experiences. By stepping outside of my comfort zone like that, I learned a lot about myself. I learned what kind of direction I wanted to take the rest of my university career. UTS is a smaller, but more focused university than other Sydney universities. So if that is what you are looking for then this is a great option. Many of these opportunities came from TEAN who organized trips to parts of Sydney and other cities. I don't think I would have known to do most of what I did without them! They also have people living in Sydney to give me direction or advice whenever I needed it. I definitely recommend them for their organization, excursions, staff, and an overall fantastic experience in Australia!

An Unforgettable Semester

May 13, 2015by: Lauren - Bonney Lake

Program: Study Abroad in Melbourne, Australia with WorldStrides

4

Going to Melbourne changed my life. The Education Abroad Network was there from day one to help me every step along the way. The classes were challenging but there was plenty of resources available for when I needed help. The professors were all very friendly and helpful. The local team member Rob was amazing.He knows everything there is to know about Melbourne and was always available to answer questions when I had them. My roommate and I always looked forward to meeting up with him. We always had a good time and laughed constantly. Rob in very genuine and made my experience better than it could have possibly been with out him. Housing Our housing location was great. It was right in the city and only about a 10 minuet walk to campus. The room was brand new when we got it and the building was really nice. We had everything we needed, a kitchen, shower, and on sight laundry facilities.\ Health and Safety I did not ever feel unsafe in Melbourne, even when I was walking home alone in the dark. It was a very safe place. As for health, as soon as we had an issue we contacted Rob who gave us help immediately. Food Melbourne has AMAZING food. You could go out to eat for every meal and still not eat at everyplace. The food was one of the best parts.

University of Canterbury Spring 2014

May 06, 2015by: Erin - Grand Forks, North Dakota

Program: Study Abroad in Christchurch, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

My experience studying in New Zealand was nothing short of amazing, and I owe that to ISA Study Abroad! One of the best things about this program was the Bridging Cultures orientation week right when I arrived in New Zealand. The seminars were a great way to prepare for cultural differences and to get acclimated to being in a new place. I was given so much choice and so many opportunities through ISA, such as excursions and fun activities, and met wonderful people that I was able to study with and get to know very well through traveling. While being affordable and extremely helpful in preparation before going abroad, I would recommend ISA to any prospective students that want to have a life changing experience!

My Summer in Lima, Peru

May 05, 2015by: Kemin Fena - Houghton, Michigan

Program: Study Abroad in Lima, Peru with WorldStrides

5

I would definitely recommend this program. I had an incredible experience taking Spanish courses at La Universidad del Pacifico and staying with a Peruvian host family. My language skills improved immensely, I gained an appreciation for the Peruvian culture, and met wonderful people from around the world. Study abroad has been a highlight of my college career and a life changing experience. The onsite staff through ISA are absolutely amazing--willing to help out with anything at anytime. I would also suggest signing up for all of the excursions. I went to on trips to the rainforest, Machu Picchu, and to a desert oasis/beach town, and those were highlights of my entire trip.

The Best Four Months

May 04, 2015by: Kara Elise - Blacksburg

Program: Study Abroad in Barcelona, Spain with WorldStrides

5

My study abroad experience was the best four months of my life and changed my future for the better! I traveled to Barcelona, Spain with the International Studies Abroad program for the fall semester of my junior year. Barcelona is an exciting, diverse, and welcoming city that steals a part of your heart. I made some of my best friends during this program and now have a second mother in Spain who was my home stay mom. The International Studies Abroad (ISA) program took us on a variety of weekend trips that were included in the program. This allowed me to see other parts of Spain that I wouldn’t have thought to travel to on my own. My favorite of these trips was to Valencia where we spent the day in awe at the beautiful architecture unique to the city. Studying abroad is an original experience that will be exciting and unique to all who embark. I ended up traveling to 14 different countries during my time in Europe and was exposed to gorgeous scenery, varying cultures, and remarkable people. I highly encourage everyone to study abroad because you will be left with the best memories and will have learned more than you ever could in your home classroom. International Studies Abroad changed my life and I plan on returning to Europe in the fall to pursue a Master’s program. The only regret I have about my study abroad experience is not staying longer!! Best of luck fellow travelers!

Mo-ROCK-in My World

May 01, 2015by: Taylor D. - Des Moines, Iowa

Program: Study Abroad in Meknes, Morocco with WorldStrides

4

My experience studying abroad in Morocco has not only allowed me to meet others with similar passions as my own, but has also enabled me to immerse myself in an unknown culture and speak with locals about issues that affect them on a daily basis. Improving my French and Arabic allowed me to make closer connections with my host family and friends, and taking religion, gender, and politics classes helped me in completing graduation requirements at my home institution.

Una primavera en Cataluña

May 01, 2015by: Ben Schumann - Columbus, OH

Program: Study Abroad in Barcelona, Spain with WorldStrides

4

My spring semester in Barcelona was amazing! I improved my Spanish to a highly conversational level (well, they call it Castilian there) and met so many people from all across the EU. My two small problems were that the course offerings weren't amazing (though the courses themselves were at a high level), and I was only able to complete two major courses when I was really hoping and planning on three, and that there should have been more opportunities on ISA's end to meet local students. I managed just fine, especially with EU programs such as Erasmus, but I know some people wish they met more Catalans! But the program was great in every other way! If you all could just find a way to lower the fees ;)

Ways to a Perfect Experience

April 29, 2015by: Dena - Springfield, MA

Program: Study Abroad in Florence, Italy with WorldStrides

5

It may seem crazy to give a program a perfect review. But when it was ran so smoothly and I was in an amazing country how could I not. The experiences I had and the friendships I made were more significant that I could ever imagine. The excursions offered with the program allowed me to travel with my new friends without the pressures of having to plan the trips myself. The courses I took were unlike anything I've ever taken in America, I went on class trips and gave performances. I could go on for hours about my amazing host mom. I strongly suggest living with a host family because it just adds a whole other level to your trip. I learned the language, had homemade meals, and met so many people. I wish I could go back everyday. I miss the city filled with so much art, beauty, history, and love. If you want a memorable study abroad experience this is the program you need to take.

Life Changing!

April 29, 2015by: Duaa Elnasri - Nashville, TN

Program: Study Abroad in Rome, Italy with WorldStrides

5

This program was the best I could have asked or out of a study abroad program! We got to fully merge into the Roman lifestyle and do as the Romans do. It was great to have an apartment because it felt like we were more involved in the community. We learned about each site by visiting them individually and this made the information stick really well, especially for a visual learner like myself! The ISA staff was so wonderful in helping us with all that we needed while in Italy--everything from picking us up from the airport, to helping us plan trips while in Italy, to giving us recommendations for fun things to do while abroad! I would recommend his program to absolutely anyone wanting to experience life abroad!

¡Vo dale!

April 29, 2015by: Graham King

Program: Study Abroad in Chile with WorldStrides

4

I have yet to come across a city I've found as interesting and amazing as Valparaíso. From the street performers to the beaches and mountains to the richness of the local culture, you will always have something to do and something new to try or see. I would strongly recommend this program to anyone, especially Spanish language or International Studies students, as I truly enjoyed my host family and the myriad opportunities the country had to offer. Valpo will always have my heart.

Study Abroad in Dublin Fall 2014

April 29, 2015by: Abby M - Virginia Beach

Program: Study Abroad in Dublin, Ireland with WorldStrides

4

This past fall, I was lucky enough to study abroad in Maynooth, Ireland. I had already been to Ireland the previous summer with ISA and knew I loved the country and the program. I fell in love with Ireland all over again this fall. I was taken on trips around Dublin and all over Ireland with ISA and got to see so much of the country. ISA was definitely a big support while I was in Ireland, always available to answer my questions.

Best Decision of My Life

April 28, 2015by: Lynn Ymker - Brookings

Program: Study Abroad in Florence, Italy with WorldStrides

5

I only spent three weeks in Florence but they were by far some of the best weeks of my life. I met amazing people and also had amazing experiences. I took an Italian wine and culture class. Going in, I knew nothing about wine, but now I consider myself to be pretty knowledgeable. My teacher did a great job. We went on a field trip one day to Montepulciano and Pienza. ISA provided excursions to Cinque Terre and Rome. Both trips were amazing! My apartment was in the same building as the ISA office and was a one minute walk from Ponte Vecchio. Being so close to the city center was amazing and I immersed myself in the culture as much as I could! I would do it again in a heart beat!

My Second Home

April 27, 2015by: Deirdre Scanlon - Lynchburg

Program: Study Abroad in Galway, Ireland with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad in Galway with ISA was the best decision I ever made! Everyone has heard that studying abroad is a life changing experience, but what a lot of people don't focus on is the people who make that possible. My study abroad experience would not have been anywhere close to as great as it was without ISA there to assist me every step of the way. When I was trying to decide what provider to use, ISA responded quickly to my e-mails, answering every question I had; in addition, when an ISA representative was on my campus, they took the time to meet with me to discuss my study abroad options. One of the greatest features of ISA is that they have on-site support in every country they send students to! My Resident Director was there for me 24/7, taking my group on excursions and around the city for cultural events, and taking the time to talk to me when I was having a bout of homesickness. With ISA, I had the chance to be independent in a new country while also knowing I wasn't alone. Having ISA plan our excursions, which was included in the program fee, was also fantastic. I got the chance to explore Ireland without having to plan the trips myself or figure out extra funds. With ISA, I got to see everything from the hillsides of Connemara and the bustling streets of Dublin. When I went to explore more of Europe with a friend, my Resident Director helped me with the planning, making sure I didn't end up with nowhere to sleep or stranded in another country! Galway itself was a beautiful city, with its main pedestrian shopping street leading down to the Galway Bay which features the Old Long Walk (a row of colorful houses on the water). The National University of Ireland, Galway was just a fifteen minute walk away from my apartment and the walk itself was gorgeous, overlooking an expanse of green only interrupted by the River Corrib. Although you may think that Ireland wouldn't have that different of a culture from the U.S., I can assure you that that is not the case! I had so much fun learning about the Irish culture and immersing myself in it, talking to locals and making friends along the way. Most people think of Dublin when they think of Ireland, but Galway is most definitely the cultural capital. I had the experience of a lifetime there, finding myself with a second home, and I could not recommend Galway, or ISA, any more highly to you.

Life Changing Experience!

April 27, 2015by: Will - Baltimore
5

I had never been out of the U.S. before in my life and knew no one else going on this study abroad journey, so needless to say I was extremely nervous to be taking such a leap of faith. In no time, however, my anxious feelings turned to pure excitement. I can confidently say that studying abroad through ISA was the best decision I have ever made and those five months I spent in Australia were the best five months of my life. I greatly admired ISA's service-oriented attitude and always felt that I had personal attention from the organization throughout my journey. The group flight to Australia from L.A. presented the opportunity to meet other Americans in the program prior to even setting foot in Australia. ISA's cultural immersion program further boosted my comfort level in living abroad, which made my academic orientation at JCU even more rewarding. ISA's on-site staff was always willing to help with any questions I had and my on-site coordinator became a close friend as well. I absolutely loved the close community atmosphere of living in the international student lodge because it presented the opportunity to interact with people from all over the world on a daily basis. Many of the students I met while studying abroad remain my best friends to this day. I loved my classes and definitely encourage taking unique courses that would not be an option at your average University in the U.S. There are so many ways to get involved in University and community activities outside of the classroom. Furthermore, excursions and travel opportunities occur on a weekly basis. I grew so much through my cross-cultural abroad experience and cannot speak highly enough about ISA's abroad programs. Aside from the amazing people that I met and amazing times I had throughout my travels, I also developed strong interpersonal, organizational, and independent working skills. Highlighting my personal and professional growth through studying abroad is extremely helpful in job interviews and can allow anyone studying abroad to excel in reaching their career goals. Even after returning home from being abroad, ISA remains close with its strong alumni network and always seeks to help its alumni reach reach their career goals.

Granada Life

April 26, 2015by: Bri

Program: Study Abroad in Granada, Spain with WorldStrides

5

I loved studying abroad in Granada with ISA! I wouldn't have chosen a different program; they are the best. If I ever needed help, the ISA staff was there 24/7 to help me out. Their office was located just around the corner from the school I attended, the CLM, where I could use the computer lab during their office hours. The other students that I knew had to travel further to go to their program's offices. I also loved the excursions that ISA planned for my fellow students and I. We went to Sevilla, Las Alpujarras, Nerja, Madrid, Toledo, Córdoba and Morocco, and they did all the planning for us. ISA is definitely the program to study abroad with!

Take Me Back!!

April 26, 2015by: littleroman - North Carolina

Program: Study Abroad in Rome, Italy with WorldStrides

5

I honestly can't speak highly enough of this program. From arriving at the airport, to orienting you to the city, to taking you on excursions through some of the best places in Italy, ISA has set up a phenomenal program. Rome stole my heart and I will definitely be going back some day. I loved buying fruit at the local frutteria and eating dinner at the quaint restaurants in Trastevere. My professors at AUR were from all over the world and I felt like I truly found what it meant to become a "cultured" person. ISA worked really with my school to accommodate program costs with my financial aid package. If you ever get the chance, do not hesitate - go!!!

Barcelona Spring Study Abroad

April 24, 2015by: Savanna - Athens, Georgia

Program: Study Abroad in Barcelona, Spain with WorldStrides

5

My abroad experience was amazing. I would advise every student to study abroad during their college years. Experiencing other people’s culture and living among those who are so different from yourself is life changing. I studied abroad in Barcelona for a semester with five other girls who go to my university. My abroad experience would not have been the same if I did not go through International Studies Abroad. ISA was extremely accommodating every step of the way. Their staff was always there for each student and ready to help in any situation. ISA made me feel safe and like I would be taken care of no matter what. ISA was very well-organized from beginning to end of my trip. They picked us up from the airport and made sure we knew where our housing was from the start. ISA also provided us with various guides on places to go in Barcelona including eateries, museums, and local spots. Not only would I recommend to study abroad through ISA, I would also urge students to study in Barcelona. The city never became boring once. Barcelona will always be my favorite city and I cannot wait to return.

AMAZING!!!!

April 23, 2015by: Leah Shaknitz - Tempe, Arizona

Program: Study Abroad in Florence, Italy with WorldStrides

5

Studying in Florence was truly a dream, and ISA helped that dream come true. The staff in both America and Italy were fantastic, super helpful, and always making sure we had a great time. The excursions provided by ISA including but not limited to Cinque Terre, Rome, Siena, and San Gimignano (there were much more) were well planned, and both great day trips and weekend trips. The apartment I was placed in was very authentic and was right next to the famous Piazza della Repubblica and a 10 minute walk from the school FUA. Just an example of how the staff tried to make us feel welcomed and at home- they set up a Thanksgiving Feast for us to enjoy since we were so far from family on the holiday. I highly recommend this trip and studying with ISA you will not regret it!!!

Mi ciudad favorita

April 23, 2015by: Raquel Santos

Program: Study Abroad in Salamanca, Spain with WorldStrides

5

Salamanca was by far my favorite city in Europe. Not only is it absolutely beautiful, but it is also rich in history and culture. Walking into the Plaza Mayor for the first time was breath-taking, and each time I passed through, I could help but admire its beauty. The classes were very interesting, the professors were amazing, and the location of the city was very strategic. It was only a (2hr) bus ride away from the Madrid airport. My host parents were very accommodating and loved to cook for me and my roommate, yet were very understanding when we made other dinner plans with friends. I definitely recommend staying in a home stay in order to be fully immersed in the culture, and especially if learning spanish is a main goal of yours!

Summer 2014 in Barcelona

April 23, 2015by: Katie - Los Angeles

Program: Study Abroad in Barcelona, Spain with WorldStrides

5

I had a life-changing experience on the Summer 4 Barcelona program. I traveled with 4 other girls from my university and stayed in an apartment. Although I did not get the full immersion experience by living in an apartment, I had a great experience. The apartment was well-equipped, clean, and in an upbeat neighborhood in Barcelona. The program offered various weekend excursions including cava (champagne tasting) and a trip to the South of France. They made sure that the excursions were fun and interesting for college-aged students. One of my favorite parts about the program was the university and my profesora. Our teacher, Maria, was hilarious and always kept us entertained. I loved that we took classes at an actual university-- I know some programs offer courses in hotel conference rooms. I thought it was really great to experience the college life for a typical Spanish student. Overall, I thought ISA was very organized and helpful. Their staff had a lot of advice and was easy to get into contact with. I had some family problems while abroad and the staff was more than generous throughout the process. The only thing I regret about studying abroad was that I should have gone longer! The month-long program goes by really quickly because you are so busy trying to see everything you can. I would definitely recommend this program to anyone who wants to go abroad but is unable to during the school year.

Granada! My favorite city in Spain

April 22, 2015by: Fredrik Karlsson - El Paso

Program: Study Abroad in Granada, Spain with WorldStrides

5

I'm under the impression that Granada is an underrated city in Spain. It has a magical vibe, so full of history. The mountains surrounding the city are absolutely stunning. There was no other city in Spain that i felt had such a wonderful environmental surrounding. It is the perfect city to study abroad in if you choose to study in Spain. ISA is helpful in informing us about activities which we can do in a near Granada. They also assist you in making the most of your semester by being there for you every step of the way. When i say this, i do not mean that ISA staff is breathing down your neck. They give you freedom to do your own thing, but its comforting to know that they are always there if needed. Also, the housing provided was not at all fancy, but the warm staff of my residencia more than made up for this fact. ISA sets up a couple of excursions during the semester. These excursions were definitely some of the funnest, most memorable and most educational parts of the semester. The Morocco excursion costs extra, but don't miss it! It was by far the best one in my opinion. (I studied in the Spring, idk if this is available in the Fall). One piece of advice to those of you who choose Granada. Having chosen such a wonderful city you will unfortunately have to deal with a few hordes of tourists now and then, especially in the warmer months. Don't be a tourist! Be a local! Explore the places where the locals flock, there are plenty of them, you just need to do a little bit of exploring. Overall, this program is awesome. ISA really does the job right.

Time of my life and I owe it all to I.S.A.

April 22, 2015by: Diana Garcia - Thousand Oaks

Program: Study Abroad in Paris, France with WorldStrides

5

Studying Abroad in Paris was one if not THE BEST decision of my life. If I had any regrets in life they would be not studying abroad sooner or longer. It is one thing to say that going to Paris is on my bucket list and another to say that I have crossed off living in Paris off my bucket list. This opportunity would not be available if it weren't for ISA! They have been the go-to person before, during and after my trip. Before I got there they answered my various Visa questions. During my experience they introduced me to true cultural experiences and introduced me to some of my French best friends and after I left, they welcomed me to my home away from home. It is such a well organized program that make you feel at home. I have never said I have fallen in love with a location until I got to Paris. I love the people, the language, the streets, the buildings, food, everything ... and I wouldn't have it any other way. Studying abroad made me view the world and myself with such new eyes that introduced me to who I really am. It caused me to learn my third language, have so much to contribute in conversations and taught me how to be interesting, not just be a person going though the motions. Its a decision I would never ever change..

The Adventure Awaits YOU

April 21, 2015by: Silvia M. Villarreal - Horizon City, Texas

Program: Study Abroad in Granada, Spain with WorldStrides

5

If you want adventure, culture, and history Granada is the city for you. You are 45 minutes aways from the Sierra Nevadas and from the beaches of the Mediterranean Sea. My time in Granada was a special I meet so many wonderful people and grew much more as a person. Plus the ISA Staff are amazing they are your family away from home.

Find your Global Love

April 21, 2015by: Denise Malkoon

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

5

I couldn't have been luckier to experience a city more beautiful as Sevilla and a program as well structured as my partnership through ISA . I stayed with a host family which is essential to cultural integration. Living and talking to natives everyday encouraged me actively participate in the Spanish lifestyle. One of the greatest parts about going global is the process of becoming a more critical thinker and develop more creative approaches to solving problems. ISA provides a fantastic platform to explore such a historic city.

Life-Changing

April 20, 2015by: Emma Bassette - Manhattan, KS

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

My experience at Bond University and with ISA was amazing! They began the trip with an amazing orientation at Cairns (home of the great barrier reef) for a week before classes began. The area around Bond, Robina, was very suburban, but many beautiful beaches and beach towns were very near by. The beaches on the Gold Coast are some of the best in the world, so take advantage of them when you are there! I chose to live in a studio apartment in Varsity Towers, but if I could've done it differently I would've chosen to live on campus in the dorm complexes. The food on campus was good, but the options were not very healthy and were quite expensive. The campus was beautiful and very modern and the teachers were involved and helpful. I had class Monday - Wednesday so that I could travel on the weekends. This was amazing! I would recommend explore the area that you live and participating in as many on campus social activities as possible so that you can meet locals and other exchange students! Feeling at home in the area is just as important as traveling the country. Take as many opportunities as you can and budget plenty for the trip! Traveling abroad is more expensive than I anticipated, so plan accordingly. Make an effort to meet locals and prepare for sub-par public transportation. Overall, my experience was phenomenal and I wish I could do it all over again! Good luck!

The best thing I've ever done!

April 20, 2015by: Chelsea LeFave - Milledgeville

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

4

Studying abroad in Sevilla was the best thing I’ve done in college! I went with a group of people from my school to study international marketing. Right upon arriving in Spain ISA greeted us at the airport and took us to our new homes for the month. I was very intimidated at the first place we stopped to eat not knowing ANY Spanish but somehow I made it through all month learning a lot! Throughout our whole month in Spain, ISA was constantly there to help us navigate through the city, teach us about culture, and organize events like kayaking down the river at sunset or attending a bull fight. ISA knows how scary it is to be in another culture with new surroundings and they make it very easy to adjust and fall in love with the city. Sevilla is a large city but with a small town feel. It is so easy to get lost in the little streets but somehow we would always make it back to Plaza de Cuba! The coolest part about Spain was all of the tapas restaurants. My favorite thing to do was go and order a bunch of dishes I couldn’t even pronounce off the menu to try all the original Spanish dishes (including payaya which is a must!). A little piece of my heart will always be left in Sevilla and I can’t wait for the opportunity to go back again thanks to ISA!

Experience of a Lifetime

April 20, 2015by: Emi Gajowski - Helena, Montana

Program: Study Abroad in Rome, Italy with WorldStrides

5

As a History major, living in Rome for a summer program with ISA was a total dream come true! The included excursions and museum visits were absolutely priceless, and being in such close proximity to all of those historical landmarks was unlike anything I had ever experienced. I loved getting to know the city, the people, and the culture, and my only regret is that I didn't go for a whole semester!

London away from London

April 19, 2015by: Cassandra - Colorado

Program: Study Abroad in Reading, England with WorldStrides

4

I would do anything to be back in England on my study abroad experience! I loved Reading for a lot of reasons, but mainly because of the environment that surrounded me. At the University of Reading, you stay at a large university with dormitories of one per room on a hall of around 18. The showers and bathrooms are individual, and there are 10 to share. I never ran into an issue with sharing the bathrooms. As I stayed in a first year's room, it was a little rowdy but all in good fun. It was how I met most of my friends from England and who I stay in contact with now. What was especially nice about Reading was that it was so close to London, but far away enough to not feel exhausted by the big city. Plus, Reading is much cheaper than living in London (If you can get inexpensive in England that is..) but it was nice not to be surrounded by a large amount of people all the time. We went to London at least three times a month while in England, which was a perfect amount of time to learn the train and tube maps, see all the sights, and feel like a Londoner without being in London. The school was great and very accommodating to foreign students. It was a basic university and I honestly didn't feel too culturally different while I was there. My program, International Studies Abroad (ISA) was great to work with. They made the process smooth and easy, and took care of any administrative things I didn't want to worry about while abroad. They also took us all over England and helped us plan trips throughout Europe. The only downside was that the ISA office was in London meaning we couldn't stop by and say hi all the time! Overall I strongly recommend Reading, and ISA, and just studying abroad in general. Anywhere you go, you'll learn, laugh, and love the experience!

The Real Study Abroad Experience

April 18, 2015by: Maggie Hoffman - Tempe

Program: Study Abroad in Barcelona, Spain with WorldStrides

5

My study abroad experience was the absolute best time of my life. The staff in Barcelona are truely interested in each of their students experience. They work to provide the best educational and all around good time that you can have. The school in ISA was absolutely the best. I learned more in this semester then I had all of college previously. The teachers are a very diverse group who really care about their students. They don't boggle you down with homework and busy work but instead actually teach you. Global management with Jean Philiipe was my favorite class I have ever taken. Another amazing part of my trip was my homestay. ISA hand picks all of their homestay houses and make sure that they are all the best. My homestay was in the heart of Barcelona and had the best views. My abuelo was the sweetest lady ever and probably the thing I miss the most about spain. The food she made was to die for. The staff also works very hard to integrate you into the culture. ISA sets up weekly tours where they take you round to different regions in Spain. They also send out a weekly letter with their favorite restaurants, bars, and activities in Barcelona. There is also a intercombio option where you can learn to speak better spanish with a native spaniard. The sights and night life in Barcelona are amazing. Having traveled all around Europe I can tell you that there is no better place to be then Barcelona.

Volunteering in Valpo!

April 17, 2015by: Francesca Reynaert - Lexington, Kentucky

Program: Community Engagement in Chile with WorldStrides

5

I can only think positive things about my experience in Valparaíso. Volunteering at Centro Bellavista, the Special Education Center, and working with the psychologist was such a great experience for me and so much fun. In the US, I have heard the statement, "The only disability in life is a bad attitude." Working at this placement allowed me to see the truth of that statement. Working with the students and helping them in their everyday school life was such a joy for me. The children always put a smile on my face no matter what. I loved the Chilean culture (especially the food), and my host family was SO caring and friendly. They made me feel like one of their own children. I still keep in touch with my host brothers on a regular basis. I really wish I could have stayed longer than a month so that I could have traveled more, but I will definitely have to return to Chile in my future. Overall, this was an amazing and valuable experience. I was able to immerse myself in the culture, strengthen my Spanish-skills, and gain life-changing skills that allowed me to grow in so many ways.

Semester in Barcelona

April 15, 2015by: Katie - Athens

Program: Study Abroad in Barcelona, Spain with WorldStrides

5

My experience with ISA was exceptional. I was nervous and overwhelmed with getting my affairs in order prior to traveling but ISA was quick to help you every step of the way. They were very organized prior to the trip, during the semester and were available after if we had any questions about transcripts. They provided us with dining suggestions, sites to see and different events or games we could sign up to go to. We also mentioned to them we wish we had a coffee maker, and two days later a coffee maker and six mugs showed up at our door. In addition to the organization and helpfulness, ISA had multiple included excursions. My only complaint would be that the overnight excursions werent long enough... We could've used 3 days for the Valencia trip instead of two. Overall ISA made traveling abroad worry-free and fun. Barcelona is the most exceptional city I've ever been to and I would go back and travel with ISA in a heartbeat.

J'adore Paris!

April 15, 2015by: ashleyhoppes - Huntington Beach

Program: Study Abroad in Paris, France with WorldStrides

4

I absolutely loved my experience with isa! It was the most life-changing experience I’ve ever had and I wouldn’t trade my experience for the world: the good, the bad, and the ugly. From day 1 of applying to isa, the Austin staff was extremely helpful and supportive of making sure I got all the right paperwork done and my visa was processed correctly! In fact, I actually ended up missing a form the day before my embassy interview and isa overnighted it to me so that I wouldn’t have to miss my appointment. The great thing about studying abroad with a provider like isa is that they take care of the logistics for you. I got on my plane to Paris knowing that someone had set up my housing, someone was going to pick me up at the airport, I was registered for classes, etc. The on-site staff was really helpful and supportive with some health care issues I had too which I really appreciated since my French was not very good! Paris is a beautiful city and while many say they fall in love in Paris, I would say I fell in love with Paris! There’s nothing like an afternoon stroll along the seine, eating a crepe at Trocadero while gazing at the Eiffel Tower, spending long afternoons at sidewalk cafes, or getting your bread fresh every morning. Paris is also a fantastic city to study abroad in because it is so close to other amazing cities in Europe. During my study abroad experience I visited 6 other countries and countless cities. The relatively cheap and easy travel is one of the huge perks of being in continental Europe. Studying abroad really teaches you to be independent, learn a new language and culture, adapt to countless circumstances, and discover who you are. It takes a leap of faith to be willing to leave everything behind and step into the unknown, but I promise it is a decision you will never regret! Now what are you waiting for? Go Study Abroad!!!

ISA Amman, Jordan Summer 2

April 14, 2015by: Delaney
4

ISA is an amazing study abroad provider. Going abroad can be a very daunting and scary process, especially to a place as unique as Amman, but ISA makes you feel 100% prepared and ready for the adventure! They have faculty on staff 24/7 and our resident director on-site was so helpful. The culture and unique experiences you will get in Amman are unforgettable. ISA is incredibly helpful, affordable, and reliable. I would recommend this program and ISA as a study abroad provider to anyone.

ISA Staff is the best!

April 14, 2015by: Emily

Program: Study Abroad in Madrid, Spain with WorldStrides

4

International Studies Abroad is an incredible organization with FANTASTIC people working for them! They helped me with every single thing that I needed, were encouraging, friendly, and great people to get to know.

A Perfect Semester in Malaga

April 14, 2015by: Meagan Van Til

Program: Study Abroad in Malaga, Spain with WorldStrides

5

My semester abroad in Malaga, Spain, could not have been more perfect, and this was largely due to the awesome team at ISA. Throughout the application process and preparation, everyone who I communicated with was very helpful, from filling out paperwork to answering questions about classes. They were fantastic about helping others and I acclimate to Spain, and I cannot rave enough about the onsite staff enough. They were incredibly friendly and were willing to help with the varied problems students brought to them, which included questions about travel, homework, and host families. Even outside of the staff, the experience itself was unforgettable. I can truly say that Malaga is my favorite place in the world. I love the warm climate, the cobblestone streets, the exotic nightlife, and of course the food. Living on the Mediterranean was ideal, and I thoroughly enjoyed every single second of it. I was lucky enough to live with an exceptionally wonderful host family; I still talk to them pretty regularly. One of the great things about Malaga is its size and location. As one of the biggest cities in Andalucia, it is large enough to be interesting and have a lot to offer, but small enough to maintain a lot of authentic Spanish culture. Being immersed in the local culture really helped me to improve my language skills exponentially, but it never felt like work! In addition, I loved all of the classes that I took at the Universidad de Malaga. They were interesting and all the professors were helpful, and the classwork relevant. I cannot recommend this program highly enough. I would go back in a heartbeat if possible and would enthusiastically encourage any of my friends to study abroad in Malaga with ISA.

Yo Soy Español

April 13, 2015by: Dani Schugg - Los Angeles

Program: Study Abroad in Madrid, Spain with WorldStrides

5

I always knew I would return to Madrid to study abroad ever since I visited for 3 days in high school on a cultural immersion trip. The city life, the loving people and the overall Spanish vibe provided me with the best study abroad experience I could have asked for. My homestay experience was everything I hoped for and more, I can't wait to go back and visit my host mom again! Universidad de Antonio de Nebrija was the perfect place to take classes for an American looking to meet people from all over the world while still feeling at home in the classroom. The ISA Office staff in Madrid are all perfect humans and will answer to your every beckon call. They really made you feel like you belonged in their city while showing you the best places to sightsee, eat and enjoy what España had to offer. Overall, my study abroad experience with ISA provided me with a whole new outlook on travel, culture and life in general and I would do it all over again in a heartbeat!

San Jose Summer Spanish

April 13, 2015by: McKenzie Carr - Mississippi

Program: Study Abroad in San Jose, Costa Rica with WorldStrides

5

I absolutely loved Costa Rica! I would definitely recommend this program! I would go to the ISA office almost daily because the ladies in the office were so welcoming and accommodating that I made friends with them. I was in intermediate Spanish which was not difficult but somewhat challenging. I wasn't honestly overly fond of the classroom but when you are there, the classroom is not the best place to learn Spanish anyway: the people are. If you really want to learn Spanish, then I would highly recommend that you make friends with the Ticos and not with Americans. Then use the classroom to facilitate what you learn from speaking with constantly with locals. With that being said, I didn't follow that advice very well. I made very good friends with other American students there with me and we spoke too much English (which was not my plan), but I forged friendships that were so tight that I still speak with most of them regularly almost two years later. I I had a host family that I loved and we became so close that they even too me to a family reunion and later included me in their Father's Day family photo. I also liked that ISA provided two excursions and left the rest of the weekends open. This way I was able to be lead in the first two weekends to get my bearings in the country and then my friends and I could plan our own trips after that (which were not very expensive at all). Overall I can easily say that I had a 5-star experience!

Studying in Prague

April 13, 2015by: Lilly Sybrant - salt lake, UT

Program: Study Abroad in Prague, Czech Republic with WorldStrides

4

Living in Prague is very affordable. The tram and bus system is easy to navigate. The language is hard to get use to at first but you will be surprised about how much you can pick up. Czech people are also very friendly and kind once YOU reach out to them.

A once in a lifetime summer

April 12, 2015by: Genna McKenna - Blue Island

Program: Study Abroad in Meknes, Morocco with WorldStrides

5

This past summer I lived in Meknes, Morocco for 2.5 months. This city is not one of the biggest tourist attractions in the country and that made for some wonderful cultural immersion. I spent 6 weeks volunteering at an orphanage and then 6 weeks taking classes at a study center. I lived in an apartment with 5 other girls in the program and we became lifelong friends. I was also there during the World Cup and Ramadan. We lived in the more modern part of the city and would spend our evenings at the cafes watching soccer, drinking tea, and practicing our language skills with locals. Support staff showed us safe locations for nightlife and we never had an issue. Being a woman was sometimes difficult due to cat calling but if you are in a large group or walk with a male friend it almost completely disappears. We went on weekend trips almost every weekends and the support staff would help us to arrange anything that was not an included excursion.

The Experience of a Lifetime

April 12, 2015by: Mackenzie D - Lewiston

Program: Study Abroad in San Jose, Costa Rica with WorldStrides

4

In the three short months I was in this program, I had the time of my life and benefitted in different ways. I advanced in my Spanish-speaking skills so much more than I could have ever done in the U.S. because of the immersion and necessity to use the language in daily life. I also gained new perspectives on life being in a completely different culture than I was used to, which made me more open-minded and has helped shaped who I am as a person today. Overall, I seized every opportunity I could while abroad and had some of the best experiences of my life that I will never forget.

Buenos Aires with ISA: ¡una experiencia inolvidable!

April 10, 2015by: Allie - Ewing, NJ

Program: Study Abroad in Buenos Aires, Argentina with WorldStrides

5

Buenos Aires, Argentina is an amazing, fun and beautiful city. If you are looking to improve your Spanish, learn about another culture, and eat delicious food, you'll be more than happy in Argentina! Although the different accent can be a little tough to get used to at first, the people and the culture are truly fascinating. The ISA staff is there to help you every step of the way, leaving you feeling safe and secure while away from your family.

Veritas in Valparaíso

April 10, 2015by: Rachel McAdams - St. Paul

Program: Study Abroad in Chile with WorldStrides

5

I had an incredible experience in Chile with Veritas Christian Study Abroad, through ISA. The eight of us students in Veritas meshed into a caring, safe community and we were also included with the ISA program of about 50 students. We were given opportunities to join ministries already established in the area. This working with Christians already in Valparaíso and Viña del Mar was very influential on my own relationship with God, as well as with how I view missions. Instead of coming in as if we are the one's with the authority and all of the knowledge, we were given the opportunity to build relationships with the people in the ministries and to learn from them as well. Through the Veritas program, we had a mission mentor who for me was a role model, teacher, and friend. I'm incredibly thankful for the time I was able to spend in Chile and for all of the relationships that were cultivated while I was there, with Chileans, other students from the U.S., and other international students as well.

Valpo, mi media naranja

April 08, 2015by: nan

Program: Community Engagement in Chile with WorldStrides

5

Valparaíso, Chile is a city filled with colorful historical buildings and graffiti by artists from around the world. Every day while walking around town, to school, or to my internship, I would see something new everyday. It took a few months, but I became an expert in the nooks and crannies of this wonderful quirky, historical city. I fell in love with the dancing, the drinks, the families, the people, and the strays that wandered the city. If I need an American refresher, I would head to neighboring city Viña del Mar that was filled with American brands such as Starbucks and architecture that resembled the United States. I worked in a public school meant for the impoverished of the city. My students were sixth to eighth graders. This experience became one of the most challenging for me, but it is my proudest moment by far. I traveled a lot and felt completely safe as a woman in South America. Just be street smart and you'll be fine. This country is great for hiking and outdoor activities and is cheaper to European countries. I chose to take tougher academic classes to really challenge me, so don't expect classes with locals to be easy. But it was manageable and it improved my Spanish greatly! Great experience and I am dying to go back to see all the friends I miss!!

Study in Sevilla!

April 08, 2015by: Lauren D - Gainesville

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

5

Sevilla is an amazing city in the south of Spain. I had never visited prior to studying abroad and had no clue what to really expect and I was blown away! During the 6 weeks I spent in Sevilla with ISA, I completely fell in love with the city. It really just is an absolutely beautiful city and I loved to walk everywhere to really appreciate the history and the culture. I stayed with a host family which really helped me improve my Spanish and helped me really immerse myself in the culture. The classes taught by ISA staff were really interesting and the staff members would take us on field trips to places in the city (ie. the market, the cathedral, etc.) to help us gain a more well-rounded understanding of the Spanish culture. In addition, we took weekend excursions to other nearby cities like Cordoba, Granada, Cordoba, Jerez and Malaga which really allowed us to see other parts of Andalucia that we might not have visited if we were to go on our own. My only regret is that I did not study abroad in Sevilla for longer as the 6 weeks flew by!

Dublin, Ireland

April 08, 2015by: Parker - Salt Lake City, UT

Program: Study Abroad in Dublin, Ireland with WorldStrides

5

Wow, that is the first word that comes to mind. Ireland is a beautiful country with an even better culture. It's not as much as a place but the people that make a place wonderful, that is what University College of Dublin and Dublin Ireland did for me. Assimilating into the culture was very easy and the talking with Irish and International students made it even easier. While I was at UCD I lived in the dorms which made the experience even better being on campus while close enough to the city if you wanted to do something downtown. Classes were a different style that I was used to but I learned new study habits and utilized my resources more. If you wanted to go away for the weekend the airport was close enough to be there in 40 minutes and could travel to many other European countries at a cheap price, thanks Ryanair! Having an ISA student and faculty in the country made it easier if we had any issues or if we wanted to do something fun, they were just as excited to do experience it with us students! Overall, UCD and Ireland was one of the best experience I have ever had in my entire life.

San Jose, Costa Rica

April 08, 2015by: Geena Arata - Salt Lake City, Utah

Program: Study Abroad in San Jose, Costa Rica with WorldStrides

5

I studied in San Jose, Costa Rica Fall 2013. I took intensive Spanish classes in the morning and electives in English in the afternoon. The university I attended was very small, which I liked, because it was easy to get around campus and I was able to meet people. On the weekends I was able to travel to the beach and other places like Monteverde. The ISA onsite staff is a great resource for ISA students. I had to go to the hospital while I was there and a staff member accompanied me to the hospital and made sure I was okay. There were also excursions that are included in the price of the programs that are really fun because you get to see the beautiful sites of the country as well as get to know the other students in your program. As well as taking classes, I did an internship at a local children's hospital. It was an amazing opportunity because I was able to learn about the healthcare system and interact with the community. I am a Health Promotion and Education major so it was hard for me to find classes that transferred back to my major abroad. ALL of my classes went to my major requirements or general education credits. Overall, it was all that I wanted in a study abroad. I got to meet so many great people, learn about the culture and the Spanish language, and get credit for the experience!

Fall(ing in Love) in Madrid

April 08, 2015by: Anastasia Rud - Davis, CA

Program: Study Abroad in Madrid, Spain with WorldStrides

5

Living in the city center was extremely exciting and useful in terms of immersion. The fact that not everyone speaks English in such a big city can be intimidating at first, but after about a couple of weeks, you will get accustomed to it. The locals are nice and have a good relationship with tourists and foreigners. The professors were extremely qualified for the courses they taught. Nightlife is exciting, and the city is safe for its size.

Amazing Malaga Experience

April 08, 2015by: Leah - Salt Lake City

Program: Study Abroad in Malaga, Spain with WorldStrides

5

I had the time of my life while studying abroad in Malaga. I lived with a host family and they were some of the most incredible people I have ever met. They instantly made me feel comfortable and at home. They were more than willing to help me with my Spanish and were always filling me in about the cultural norms of Spain. The Universidad and professors were also fantastic and so willing to help. I didn't meet a single professor I didn't like. They were all great and taught me about so much more than just the Spanish language. I did the Spanish Intensive Language program and LOVED it! My Spanish improved significantly because of these courses. I absolutely loved the ISA staff in Malaga as well! They were always there to help and answer any questions I had about every aspect of studying abroad and traveling. My experience wouldn't have been the same without them! I am still in touch with them today because they had such a large impact on my life. The city of Malaga is wonderful. There is the beach, the city and the most incredible people I have ever met. I would tell everyone to consider Malaga because it was great and I have no complaints! I felt so at home in Malaga and can't wait to go back again soon!

Once Upon a Time, in a Country Far Far Away

April 08, 2015by: Jordie Gamble

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

5

My time in Sevilla was incredible. The city itself is has so much to offer and is straight from the pages of a fairy tale book, from its picturesque streets to its friendly inhabitant. My walk to school led me down along the river and through the park. During breaks between classes I would go picnic right across the street at Plaza de España aka Tatooine from Star Wars. Flamenco shows and tapas bars abound are an absolute must. Even the occasional bullfight is an experience worth having, if a little graphic for my taste. The ISA staff is incredibly helpful and personable. It was also nice that Sevilla has an airport, so that when I was able to pry myself away from the city I was able to easily travel to several other countries. Overall it was an incredible experience!

My study abroad experience.

April 07, 2015by: Alexandra

Program: Study Abroad in London, England with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad was one of the best decisions that I have ever made. Studying abroad through ISA made my study abroad experience and my decision to study abroad ten times better than I could have ever imagined. I went to the most amazing University. I attended the University of Westminster. Almost all of the building locations for this University are in central London and one was on the outskirts of London. The University of Westminster made me feel at home and did not make me feel intimidated for being a foreign student and I was able to adapt to the ways of the University and how things worked both in general and academically very quickly. I had such fantastic professors and all of my courses were really interesting and I took courses that really suited me and my interests as well. Furthermore, the housing that I lived in was absolutely fantastic. I lived in a flat (apartment) in central London. I lived right next to or in the middle of such historical London landmarks; such as the Tower of London and Tower Bridge. They both were literally right outside my window. My residence building was incredibly safe and the people who worked in the building itself, could not have been nicer too. Lastly, the ISA staff in both America and London were phenomenal. They were so helpful and always there for you if you ever needed anything. Both staffs were very understanding as well. I had studied abroad this time last year and I left for London in January and we had a major snow storm the day before I left for London. Many flights were getting canceled and delayed; luckily my flight just got delayed. However, that meant that I was not going to arrive at the specific time that I was originally going to arrive at Heathrow Airport in London at. The ISA office in America had an emergency number to call and I was able to call them while I was at the airport to let them know and keep them informed on how my flight was doing in terms of being delayed and what time specifically that I was going to be landing in Heathrow Airport at. The ISA office in London was there to support you if you needed help or if you even felt home sick. You could talk to them about anything and everything and they would try and help you out the best that they could. You could also ask them about places to go, places to travel to, where to go and where not to go in your city or even other cities. A few of the staff members from the ISA London office showed all of us how to use the Tube in London and how to get our Oyster cards and such. This was extremely helpful because I was incredibly unfamiliar with how to use a public transportation system, especially since I am from a small town. Furthermore, ISA takes you on some absolutely amazing excursions; such as going to Stratford Upon Avon (where Shakespeare lived), Canterbury Cathedral (as in the Canterbury tales), Stonehenge and Bath, etc.) ISA also not only was there to help us out when we needed it but they also had a good instructor to student relationship. They were very good at helping us when we needed it but they also let you feel like adults and let us do our own thing, especially when we were on excursions. Studying abroad is the best thing that I ever did in my life thus far and is one of the best decisions that I ever made in my lifetime. Studying abroad allowed me to grow and change in ways that I never in a million years thought imaginable. I realized things about myself that I never knew that I had and discovered things about myself that were always there, I just never knew were there or how to bring out or use those qualities before, until I studied abroad. I wish that I could just study abroad again and again for the rest of my life. Studying abroad is the best thing that I have ever done, ever!!

We'll Always Have Paris.

April 07, 2015by: Joshua Valdez - Lincoln, Nebraska

Program: Study Abroad in Paris, France with WorldStrides

5

Yes, I quoted Casablanca. No, I don't expect you to get the reference. I also don't expect you to have my Parisian experience. I studied at the wonderful Institut Catholique de Paris. My first day in Paris, I asked 5 Frenchmen for directions; 4 ignored me, and one gave me incorrect directions - Welcome to Paris :). Don't let that phase you, because now, I've lived.I've I've seen my self enter into an entirely new metamorphosis; spiritually, mentally and physically. I've descended into the Parisian catacombs to face its death, and I've ascended to the highest peak in the Austrian Alps, never feeling more alive. I've walked in the footsteps of kings in the Palace of Versailles, and I've ventured the streets of beggars in the heart of the Seine. I've traveled to the city of love, and indeed I've found it. I've witnessed the sights of nazi atrocities, and I've honored the men who sacrificed their all to overcome it. I've spent my days reading of DDay beach landings, and now I know it's deceptively calm waves. I've spent my days learning about Norte Dame , and now I know the true beauty of a Gregorian chant in it's purest form. I've eaten more bread, crêpes and macaroons than any one man should ever consume. I've been embraced by a millennia of humanities greatest artistic endeavors. I've smiled at Mona Lisa and I've literally walked to the gates of hell (Rodin). I've made the greatest friendships, I've tasted the finest wine, I've brought my grandma to Europe, if only her name on a lovelock. A piece of her is in Paris. A piece of her is in me. A piece of Paris is in me. I have become my experiences. I've lived more in one year than most dare to in their entire lives. I've lived.

Take me back any day!

April 07, 2015by: Nikki Schroeder - Cheney, Washington

Program: Study Abroad in Valencia, Spain with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad in Valencia was hands down the best 5 weeks of my life. I went into my experience without any expectations, knowledge of Spanish, or preconceived ideas of what was ahead of me. Little did I know I would meet the most amazing people, learn to communicate with a lotttttt of hand gestures and facial expressions, and fall in love with a city I never even knew existed. I wouldn't change one second of it even if I could. Not only did I come back with exciting stories and memories, but I actually enjoyed the courses I took and no doubt learned way more than I ever would have if I had opted not to step out of my comfort zone.

Un Semestre Especial

April 07, 2015by: Ronnie Sullivan

Program: Study Abroad in Granada, Spain with WorldStrides

4

Oh Granada.... I miss it so much! This experience changed my life without a doubt and it is very hard to decide where to begin. My overall experience was fantastic - I improved my Spanish, made amazing friends and explored Europe. I'm going to focus on three things that I wish had been different: My living situation, prior knowledge about my school's attendance, and cultural immersion. My host family was very caring and we lived in a large apartment complex like most people in Granada, however I was not expecting the lack of communication/involvement from my host family. I think that in Spain many host families are older ladies who need money and so they are not hosting for the cultural experience so much as they are for cash. I found this disappointing - although I could have pushed to do more with them. Secondly, one of the major reasons I went to Spain was to travel through Europe - I even bought a EU rail pass prior to leaving... Don't do that.... After arriving in Granada I learned that my school had a rule forcing you to attend at least 80% of your classes or else you can't take the Final test (a couple of my classes were graded with only 2 tests - each 50% of your final grade). The rail pass was a huge waste of money, was time consuming, and very restricting. USE RYAN AIR! Flying is much faster and more flexible so it should be able to fit into your limited amount of time to travel. Lastly, I was disappointed that the centro de lenguas modernas was its own little island of international students and I had virtually no interaction with Spanish students. If you plan to make Spanish friends, seek how to get involved on the main campus at the beginning of your trip! Overall, I had a great time. The people are wonderful, the city is beautiful, and you will experience a type of freedom you didn't know existed... Now i'm feeling really nostalgic. You will love it!

Discover Peru!

April 07, 2015by: Sienna Versteeg - Salt Lake City

Program: Study Abroad in Cusco, Peru with WorldStrides

5

I had an amazing time studying abroad for the second time with ISA Cusco. The program was just right for me, ISA has so many options. The staff there was great, the teachers were really good, I was able to get advanced transfer credit for both my majors as well as general education requirements covered while experiencing the fun beautiful city of Cusco! I loved my home stay and the excursions were really cool too. This is a great way to expand on your world experiences, enhance your resume, get various credit coverage while being abroad, and further your language skills! Definitely some of the most unforgettable times of my life.

Exploring my Spanish roots

April 07, 2015by: Michael Foster - California

Program: Study Abroad in Madrid, Spain with WorldStrides

5

I attended a small private university, Universidad Antonio de Nebrija, which provided the perfect experience to learn another language. All of my classes were taught in Spanish, although there are courses in English. ISA and the university do a good job to make sure every student feels comfortable at the level of Spanish they are placed in. As far as coursework, there was not a lot because each of the classes I had was more about speaking the language. In that sense, my time abroad was rigorous because day in and day out I was comprehending all instructions and all of my friends in Spanish. The university offers sports for those students who feel the need to explore their more athletic side, offers several excursions with the university professors, and offers the opportunity to practice Spanish with the locals in the international club. As far as housing goes, I lived with a host family that was handpicked by ISA and I could not have been more satisfied. The house was a 10 minute from school and a 2 minute walk from a metro stop to go into town. The family did not speak English but they were very accommodating to me and my roommate. My laundry was done every week and the family provided 2 meals every day (there is no breakfast really in Spain). When I had an excursion with ISA my host family made sure to pack a lunch for the trip. Studying abroad in Madrid was the best 3 months of my life. I would not trade that experience for anything.

Ideal study abroad experience

April 07, 2015by: Anna - Pullman, WA

Program: Study Abroad in Salamanca, Spain with WorldStrides

5

My experience in Salamanca was perfect for me because I was integrated seamlessly into the Spanish culture while not being overwhelmed by a big city. I had a smooth transition to life in Salamanca because it had the feel of a college town with the charm of an old European city. It was amazing having the opportunity to attend one of the oldest universities in Europe with professors who not only fostered learning, but understood that students had an interest in learning more about culture and travel. The ISA staff in Salamanca was always readily available when help was needed but also provided countless social opportunities for study abroad students outside the classroom to connect with the culture. Overall, my best semester of college - and the best 4 months of my life!

Time in Barcelona with ISA!

April 07, 2015by: Danielle Robertson - Fayetteville,AR

Program: Study Abroad in Barcelona, Spain with WorldStrides

5

I knew since entering college I wanted to study abroad and as soon as I explored my options and found ISA, I felt like it was the best choice! Barcelona was an amazing city and I loved going with students across the USA and getting to go on ISA excursions with them. ISA was really fun and planned us a ton of activities and was very involved with student life but I was still able to go roam and be independent which I appreciated. They set me up with the best house mom who owned a beautiful home in the city. The academics were challenging thanks to the local university, but I turned out enjoying and learning more from their style than ever before. Best experience thanks to ISA and I highly recommend it!!

Best experience of my life so far...

April 06, 2015by: Madilyn Gemmer - Cincinnati

Program: Study Abroad in London, England with WorldStrides

5

I loved my study abroad experience! Kingston was the perfect location as it was only a short train ride from central London and the town itself is very nice. I felt completely safe the whole time I was there (walking around town day and night). It has a ton of shops, restaurants, a movie theatre, a market, lots to do on the weekends, a great bus system, and I loved walking along the river to get to class every day. I was at the Penryhn Road campus and lived in halls at Seething Wells. I had my own room and bathroom, but shared a kitchen with 5 flatmates. Kingston University even has awesome free buses for students, which was useful when it rained or was too cold to walk to campus. The school is very diverse and multicultural. My classes consisted of a lecture and seminar 1-2x a week for each class and my only grade in each was a final essay or exam. This has pros and cons as I had to make sure I did a lot of work outside of class on my own and stay on track, but it also gives you a little more flexibility since you don't have homework and tests every week. I kept a blog during my whole experience if you'd like to check it out: http://madilynmarie.tumblr.com/​ I am a biology major, but chose to get a lot of my core credits out of the way when I studied abroad so I could also enjoy my time instead of always worrying about my difficult science classes. My lecturers were all very helpful. There is a Student Union, which is like the clubs/events board. I got involved with the Student Volunteering Society and the Christian Union through that. I would suggest not sticking just with the American friends you'll make the first week through the program, but force yourself to detach from them and make some British friends and some from other cultures. Also, I would suggest not spending all your time/money in pubs and clubs...it gets very expensive fast and there is just so much more to see and do abroad. I traveled (cheaply) to Wales and went to Italy with a group of friends for Spring Break. Studying abroad was one of the best experiences of my life so far.

Home Sweet Home

April 06, 2015by: Danielle Bryant - Springfield

Program: Study Abroad in Galway, Ireland with WorldStrides

5

The second I arrived in Galway, I felt like I was home. The city itself was absolutely incredible, and the ISA staff was so accommodating and wonderful. The RD's were so helpful and did their best to make our experience great. ISA had so many planned excursions and outings, which really made the experience that much more incredible. The assistance I received from ISA pre-departure was so helpful and encouraging, and I would encourage everyone to consider International Studies Abroad for their study abroad experience.

VIVA LA ROMA

April 05, 2015by: brianag

Program: Study Abroad in Rome, Italy with WorldStrides

5

I studied abroad in Rome, Italy for a semester and it was the best experience of my entire life. I met friends for life and wish I could go back each day. The program itself was extremely helpful in anyway I needed.

Best Money I've Ever Spent

April 05, 2015by: Kendra - St. Cloud, MN

Program: Study Abroad in San Jose, Costa Rica with WorldStrides

5

I went to Costa Rica on a complete whim. I chose my program randomly and ISA's Costa Rica Heredia program was the hands down absolute best experience I could have ever dreamed about. I loved the classes and my professors. The directors are absolutely amazing... They end up as your good friends at the end of your trip. Also, Heredia is a smaller town so I always felt completely safe and it's a short bus ride to San José for travel across the country on weekends. The excursions were great and I always came back feeling refreshed and wanting to explore Costa Rica more. My host family became like my own family and I absolutely adored them; honestly, I can't wait to go back and visit them. I would recommend this program to every single person I meet, especially if they want to improve their Spanish!

Wonderful experience

April 05, 2015by: JG - Brookings

Program: Study Abroad in Valencia, Spain with WorldStrides

4

This was an absolutely wonderful experience that allowed me to experience parts of Spain on my own terms while still having a support system to answer any questions I had. Not only was Valencia beautiful, but the ISA staff was so helpful in highlighting places for me to visit and providing suggestions of what to do and see. The pre-determined excursions were very fun and allowed me to see the best parts of Valencia, Madrid, and Barcelona in a limited amount of time, and I was still allowed plenty of time to explore on my own. Therefore I really felt that I was able to become part of the community by living there day to day (unlike a tourist), but I was not completely abandoned to figure everything out on my own. I had an absolutely wonderful time and ISA did a great job of arranging a host grandma for me to stay with. The food she prepared was so delicious and the conversations we had not only improved my Spanish skills, but also gave me a better sense of the culture by learning more about her and her lifestyle. Classes were very manageable and the University of Valencia was very conveniently located to my home and other activities. I would highly reccommend this program because of how easy ISA makes everything and also because Valencia is the perfect combination of history, modernity, and beach.

To Morocco, Inshallah!

April 05, 2015by: Carol

Program: Study Abroad in Meknes, Morocco with WorldStrides

5

This program was incredible. The staff at ISA was AMAZING and totally committed to making the students' experience as great as possible. Morocco is so different from anywhere in the US, which just made the experiences I had there all the more valuable. I came away with such a better idea of the "developing world," Islam, monarchy, and all of these concepts that we often understand from an American viewpoint without question. You will not regret Morocco.

How to get travel fever

April 05, 2015by: Emily Twigg - Harrisonburg

Program: Study Abroad in Chile with WorldStrides

5

My time in Chile was by far the best of my life. You think life at your university is great, and it is. But ever since I returned from this program I wish I was back in Valparaíso every day, it absolutely does not compare. I was placed with a host family that was so loving and happy to integrate me into all family outings and holidays. My Chilean mom even taught me how to Cueca (Chilean national dance) and then dressed me in traditional garb to dance with my cousins during independence festivities. Chile has so much to offer to the adventurous students. I went surfing and skiing in the Andes in the same 24 hours! And Valparaiso, it is so beautiful with hills of colorful houses and stunning views of the coastline. The driest desert in the world to the north, Patagonia and the lake region to the south, it is impossible to run out of things to do. I cannot speak highly enough of my experience with this program. They help you every step of the way and maximize your experience.

An exciting semester in a beautiful city

April 04, 2015by: MaryRose - Appleton

Program: Study Abroad in Granada, Spain with WorldStrides

4

Granada is a beautiful city with a unique culture and rich history. ISA set me up with a great homestay only a short walk from school. My host mom cooked delicious meals and shared her views on current events in Spain. My classes helped me learn more about Spanish culture, and they were all taught in Spanish, although I was mostly surrounded by Americans. I had to try a little harder if I wanted to spend more time with Spaniards, which I did. I joined a theater club, and I really enjoyed that. One of the best parts of the experience was all of the excursions ISA took us on. We traveled to many cities throughout Spain, and we also had enough time to travel on our own.

A fantastic experience

April 04, 2015by: Kasey Greenwood - Cresskill

Program: Study Abroad in Valencia, Spain with WorldStrides

5

I went for a summer session and I stayed at an apartment with 4 other girls. We lived right by the city center, and conveniently only 5 or 10 minutes walking from my university. ISA provided us with excursions every weekend, which were always a lot of fun. In fact, I consider them to be my favorite part of the trip. The program directors were more than helpful with everything that we needed, being on call at all hours of the day. Not only do you get to visit new sites and make new friends when studying abroad, but you also learn a lot about yourself and how independent you can be. I would recommend this trip to anyone. The #1 thing people tell me when I mention that I've studied abroad is that it was the one thing that they regret not doing during their college experience.

Simply Incredible

April 04, 2015by: marko_flo - New Jersey

Program: Study Abroad in Paris, France with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad in Paris was always a goal of mine. My experience in France was unforgettable and surprisingly easy-going thanks to ISA. From pre-departure to the very end of my stay in Paris, the staff could not have been more helpful. After a stressful flight, I was relieved to be picked up by ISA and transported to my housing (one less thing I had to worry about!). The ISA Paris staff were extremely knowledgeable with introducing the do's and don'ts that were custom in the city. The office was always welcoming and they were happy to assist in any way possible from exchanging currency to finding a cool place to eat. The program really encouraged intermingling with other students from ISA which made the transition all the more pleasant. Traveling around France and organizing a going-away dinner were only a few of the many things ISA provided that contributed to the best experience of my life and I would do it all again in a heartbeat.

Best Decision Ever

April 04, 2015by: Sarah - TOLEDO

Program: Study Abroad in Paris, France with WorldStrides

5

Out of all the life decisions I've made thus far, studying abroad in Paris was the best. Being in Paris made me feel like a whole new person. I got to learn about myself, meet new people, and live in a city which I've always dreamt of. To say my experiences was amazing would be an understatement. To top things off the ISA staff in Paris were very friendly, young and a lot of fun. They were very helpful and gave us really great suggestions on where to go and what to eat. They became my second family. I am very grateful for this experience and would strongly recommend everyone to study abroad.

Unforgettable Summer in Malaga!

April 02, 2015by: Brisa K. - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Malaga, Spain with WorldStrides

5

Malaga is the perfect city to study abroad! The size is just about right; it's big enough for you to explore the different neighborhoods and keep discovering new things, yet it's not too big to be overwhelming. Malaga has an authentic Andalusian feel and the BEST weather. Although it has a well-connected airport and miles of Mediterranean beaches, it is not touristy so you will barely hear English - if at all! The school is 3-minute walk from El Palo beach. The campus is exclusively for international students, but you are likely to have classes with fellow ISA students. The workload is doable. I barely had homework and found that my language class was not that challenging. The other class that I had was interesting, but I did not expect to write a long paper at the end so it made the end of my program a bit stressful. The ISA staff in Malaga is so welcoming and helpful. They respect your decisions and understand that the students are adults, but they are always there if we would ever need help. If there are questions that they could not answer right away (very few existed), they will not stop until they find the answers! I owe much of my "independent" post-study abroad travel planning to the staff! As for the housing, I am glad I chose to do a home stay. My host mom picked me up from the Malaga Maria Zombrano train station and made me feel at home since day 1. She and my host dad are very understanding, especially when it comes to my countless changes of plans. They also listen to my food preferences and I am very satisfied with the meals. Another plus is that my laundry was done more frequently than it was expected! Compared to the other students, I lived the furthest from the city center, even though it was only three blocks from the main shopping street. Inevitably, I had to walk home alone after a night out, but I generally feel very safe. I've heard people say that the Spaniards stay late out at night, but I found that this was not always the case. Oftentimes, I would be the only one in the street at night. It is also said that cat-calling is an issue, especially in Andalusia, but I think it has been blown out of proportion. It does not happen as much as people seem to say. Yes, some men will utter "guapa" or "morena" as you walk by, but as long as you ignore them, they would not advance. If I could change one thing, it would be that I wish I had stay longer! I became very attached to the city and my group of new friends I wish I had more time with them. Another thing that would make the program perfect is the new location for the school. I wish the school was on the main University of Malaga campus. But it is right on the beach, so I can't complain! Overall, I would recommend ISA Malaga to a friend. Amazing city right on the beach, lovely weather, doable school work, vibrant nightlife, and great staff!

The Hardest Part Was Coming Back

April 02, 2015by: SpanFilLady - Cusco

Program: Study Abroad in Cusco, Peru with WorldStrides

4

My experience with ISA International Studies Abroad in Cusco, Peru was with the Language, Literature, and Culture program. I went in the Spring of 2014, about one year ago and since the moment I returned I haven't been able to shake that travel itch. My experience with ISA was nothing short of spectacular. The customer service was great and was there if I needed help at any time whether it was before, during, or after my study abroad experience. They not only made me feel ready to study abroad but they made me feel home once I arrived in my host country when they picked me up from the airport and showed me around town before taking me to my homestay. The program was so full of activities that there was never a dull moment! Its the most you can get for your money and so much more than that! It was an experience of a life time and when asked what the hardest part was I always say: It was coming back.

Galway Girl

April 02, 2015by: Maura Hilgar - Lawrenceville, NJ

Program: Study Abroad in Galway, Ireland with WorldStrides

5

I have Irish heritage, so I always knew a trip to Ireland was on my bucket list. During the summer before my senior year I had that opportunity with ISA. I didn't realize the importance of choosing the right provider for me until after I got to Ireland. ISA picked us up at the airport and led us on our first excursion in Dublin, which was a blast. After two days we made it to our housing, Gort Ne Coiribe. Our program directors Mark and Dermott guided us through everything and made sure we knew where to shop, how to get to campus and into town, and that we were comfortable in our housing. Our oven didn't work and after we told Mark and Dermott we had a new one put in less than six hours later. My roommates traveled with another provider and their director was at times unreachable and didn't spend as much time with their group. That's when I knew I was happy I went with ISA. NUIG was an easy walk from our housing and the university was beautiful. The cafeteria wasn't on usual hours so I ate the majority of my meals in town or in my own kitchen. It was very easy to walk across the street to Dunnes to get groceries or even a mattress pad for my bed. The city centre of Galway was by far my favorite place to be. The streets were winding and colorful, always buzzing with people or street performers. I had fun shopping, trying different food, and sampling different pubs. Irish people were very friendly and welcoming (of course you had a few jokers who didn't love Americans, but that didn't bother us) and there was always something to do. We went on great excursions to scenic parts of Ireland with breathtaking views. Our housing was great; we had a three floor townhouse style place that had a kitchen, living room, four bathrooms, and washing facilities in walking distance. I would absolutely love to go back and do it all again.

Barcelona: The city that changed my life

April 02, 2015by: Amanda Snyder - Holland

Program: Study Abroad in Barcelona, Spain with WorldStrides

5

For those looking for a city that is full of culture, wonderful cuisine, a great nightlife and warmhearted people, Barcelona is the city for you. I spent 8 months in Barcelona during my junior year, and my experience was nothing short of unforgettable. On top of the friendliness of the ISA staff, studying abroad helped me become more open cultural differences, and see what a real life Barcelona classroom was like with other local students. The ISA program is filled with many different housing options, since not everyone feels comfortable in a homestay and this is customary to Spain, as well as help with academics and many different excursions. Each ISA program has something special to offer, but I always felt as though there was never a question that could not be answered by the ISA staff. As to Barcelona itself, it is a wonderful city full of so many different things to see and do. From trying typical catalan cuisine to walking along Las Ramblas, I feel as though there is an activity for anyone. I spent so many days just wandering around and taking in the beauty, since the Gaudi architecture is something I will never forget. The closeness to the sea and mountains also makes it a wonderful location, especially for someone who is normally used to harsh winters. Overall, my experience in Barcelona with ISA is something I will never forget.

My Time in Newcastle

April 02, 2015by: Ryan Lambert - Norman

Program: Study Abroad in Newcastle, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Its been a little over 4 months since I returned from Newcastle and there hasn't been a day where I haven't thought about my experience. Through this experience I made so many lifelong friends and had my eyes opened to how vast the world truly is. I lived about 2 blocks away from the beach and a 15 minute walk from the town center and train station (on which you can pay $5 and get to Sydney in 2 hours). I lived in an 11 person share house with not only Australians, but people from all over Europe. And with the 4 other houses that had the same amount of people next door, it was like our own little international community. I learned so many things about so many different countries and cultures. I also learned that I love to travel as we camped up and down the east coast of Australia as well as drove an RV around the south island of New Zealand. I also got to fulfill my lifelong goal of surfing every day and becoming a good surfer. I just wanted to write this review to say that if you are thinking about going to Newcastle, GO! People will tell you that its scary to travel away from home for such a long time and that might be true, but after leaving Newcastle I was wishing that I'd chosen to stay a year. ISA is a great program that helped me every step of the way and gave me opportunities to meet so many fun people. I know its a big decision to commit to a program like this one, but I promise you it will teach you so many new things about yourself and completely change your perspective on the world.

Valpo, Chile

April 02, 2015by: Morgan K - Nashville

Program: Study Abroad in Chile with WorldStrides

4

I loved my time in Chile. I loved that my classes assigned homework that forced me to get to know the community by speaking with natives and exploring the area. I feel much more proficient in Spanish after my time abroad. My host family was incredible. They were very intentional about making me comfortable and talking to me each day. Every day when I left for school, my host mom would tell me she loved me. They even had a dog - truly my host home felt like my home in America. I enjoyed the opportunities to travel and get to know the country. I think it is important to explore because you never know when you will be able to return.

ISA Study Abroad in Sevilla, Spain

April 02, 2015by: Rachel Kerry - Allendale

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

5

My experience with ISA in Spain was life changing. I was nervous at first, leaving the country with no family and no friends, but my expectations were exceeded. I chose to live in an apartment and the set up was amazing. Everything that we needed was provided and if there was anything else that we wanted, the ISA staff figured out a way to make us happy. The classes provided were both fun and educational, and I gained real knowledge about Spain's history and advanced my use of Spanish language. My favorite part of this program was the provided excursions to different cities in Spain and Morocco. The transportation and organization was all planned for us and our only job was to experience new culture and have fun. The on-site staff was like my family away from home. They were willing to do whatever it took to make us feel comfortable, safe, and happy. (Even if it meant coming to your hotel room every ten minutes to check on you and bring you gatorade when you are sick :)) Overall, the only complaint I have is that I couldn't stay forever!

Spring in Sevilla

April 01, 2015by: Amanda Sharon - Berlin, Massachusetts

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

4

I had the most amazing semester abroad in Sevilla, Spain. It was the perfect city for me; with plenty of history, great food and authentic culture. I knew I wanted to study abroad in Spain, but I wanted to find the right place. Sevilla has so much to do, yet doesn't feel overwhelming like Madrid or Barcelona might feel to some people. ISA was excellent in planning excursions and weekly activities. I bonded with some great friends during the first week of Orientation and had a blast traveling with them the whole semester. I always tell everyone I can about my semester in Seville. My host Mom was incredible and I loved that I was able to get better at speaking Spanish. The culture in the south of Spain is very welcoming and vibrant. There are strong cultural traditions, such as Feria and Semana Santa that are amazing to experience. If you love good food, dancing, history, adventure, and fun: Seville is the perfect place for you!!

Vive La France

April 01, 2015by: Lindsay McGonegle - Kansas City

Program: Study Abroad in Lille, France with WorldStrides

4

Long Live France! I have this hanging on my wall to remind me of my best summer yet. Spending 5 weeks in France gave me the opportunity reach out of my comfort zone and fully immerse myself in a new culture. With teachers from France, Germany, and Britain, I was able to learn more about the world, the French language, and European Business. I believe the real learning came from the streets of Lille. There was one experience that I never could have planned for, and it changed the way I see the French culture. The FIFA World Cup is played every four years. This summer, the games began about two weeks after I had arrived in France. On June 15, France played Honduras and I saw the French come alive. Eating dinner at 9pm, gathering at restaurants, parks, and bars to watch the game. Screaming and shouting when a goal was scored. Eager and enthused fans storming the streets, as the game came to an end. I found myself drawn to the World Cup even after I got back home, but cheering for the French just wasn’t the same. It was only by chance the World Cup and my study abroad overlapped, but it changed my perspective on soccer, the World Cup, and the way I see the French Culture.

I will always come back to the places I loved.

April 01, 2015by: Bao Yang - milwaukee

Program: Study Abroad at Korea University with WorldStrides

5

My study abroad through ISA to Seoul South Korea was an awesome experience. I attended Konkuk University, which had a sizable international students population. But even before I left for South Korea, ISA was really good in keeping in touch with me. I felt like I could ask them a ton of questions, and they were always happy to answer my questions. As someone who likes to be in control of everything, I really liked the orientation file that was sent to us on the student portal. Of course, once I was there I still had so many questions, and the on campus staff were so nice and helpful (a special shout out to Jaehoon). The only complaint that I had was with the academic side of things. There were a couple of classes that I couldn't take, because it was either changed to it being taught in Korean or it wouldn't transfer back to my home institution. Nonetheless, I know that it wasn't necessarily ISA's fault, and I know that I was in a new country, and I needed to be flexible. In my actual time in South Korea, I went on a couple of excursions (which are included in the cost). Because of the excursions, I really felt that I got to see South Korea in general as oppose to just staying in Seoul, because the excursions were well planned out to be all over South Korea. Overall, I loved my time in South Korea. I met so many people from all around the world. I made great friends from across America. I learned so much about the South Korean culture and society. Going through ISA was the reason that I loved being in Seoul, and I can't wait to go back and visit.

ISA Buenos Aires, Argentina 2014

April 01, 2015by: Joelle - Michigan

Program: Study Abroad in Buenos Aires, Argentina with WorldStrides

4

The city of Buenos Aires has a lot to offer for students and travelers alike. There is always something to do whether its browsing shops in Palermo, roof top lunches, to taking part in cultural events. ISA offers excursions that truly make the experience one of a kind. We took a ferry to El Tigre and spent a day at a private island along El Rio De la Plata and we also visited one of the world's greatest destinations; Iguazu Falls. I recommend traveling through ISA because in any predicament, there will be somebody to assist you whether its on-site or via email (ISA headquarters is based out of Texas). Learning the Spanish language in Buenos Aires is truly an experience as well, you will develop a Porteno/a accent and have many opportunities to immerse yourself into the culture, which makes practicing the language easy and fun!

A Month in Malaga

April 01, 2015by: Rouslana - Athens

Program: Study Abroad in Malaga, Spain with WorldStrides

5

I can't rave enough about my experience in Malaga. The city itself is the perfect intersection between a relaxing coastal town and a rich cultural hub. It has all of the history, art, food, and shopping you can find in a bustling big city, but the people are warm and welcoming like you'd expect in a smaller town. The best part is you can easily walk to almost anywhere you want if you are located centrally, but if not, public transportation is super reliable and easy to use. Another perk of being in Malaga is how easy it is to travel around to close towns in that area of Spain, and there are some gems you'll want to skip over to on the weekend (Ronda, Marbella, anywhere along the Costa del Sol). My experience with ISA was equally as great. Before I left for my trip, I was incredibly nervous to live with a host family for a whole month, but it was probably the best decision I could have made. It allowed me to immerse myself in the culture and language way more than I would have if I lived on my own or with other English-speaking students. Soon after arriving in Malaga, we met our local ISA representatives who were very helpful and easy to talk to. At no point during my trip did I feel unsafe, and that was partly because the ISA reps were always so available and eager to assist us with any issues we had. Overall, an incredible experience; I highly recommend it!

Viva la Vida in Valpo!

April 01, 2015by: jptiz - Columbia

Program: Community Engagement in Chile with WorldStrides

5

Service learning with ISA was a life-changing experience and hands-down the most fun 2 months of my life. I had the opportunity to teach English to Chilean business professionals in a legitimate government institute called BestWork where I was given the responsibility of giving lectures to full classrooms and holding private tutor sessions. The volunteer work was amazing, and equally remarkable was life outside the office. ISA set me up with an incredibly loving family whose house immediately became a home away from home. Another huge perk of the program was the fact that ISA attracts students from all across America, so I made a ton of friends from Texas and California during the numerous social outings and tours organized by ISA. Saying goodbye to my host family and friends (and to my Chilean girlfriend!) was extremely difficult, but I remain in contact with them via Facebook because we formed lifelong relationships as a result of this very positive, quite unique shared experience abroad.

Once in a lifetime!

April 01, 2015by: narredondo2

Program: Study Abroad in Buenos Aires, Argentina with WorldStrides

5

It was the best choice for my major. I also wanted to visit/study in South America! Memorable experience? The people I met! I lived with and met people and got to learn about their culture. Fun all over the world!

Going to Morrocco was really memorable

April 01, 2015by: Frederik Karlsson

Program: Study Abroad in Granada, Spain with WorldStrides

4

The program provided a comprehensive solution to studying abroad. They were very helpful and also organized excursions to different locations.

Full of great memories

April 01, 2015by: prgamboa

Program: Study Abroad in Rome, Italy with WorldStrides

5

Offered the best course options, excursions, and support. Picking one experience is difficult, but our excursion to Capri, and Sorrento was full of great memories with friends.

Adventurous, fun, diverse, daring and unforgettable

April 01, 2015by: mariruiz

Program: Study Abroad at Korea University with WorldStrides

5

I wanted to travel to Asia and ISA in Seoul seemed to have great opportunities for cultural immersion. Walking at night throughout the city exploring and getting lost was remarkably memorable.

A Unique and Enriching Study Abroad Experience

March 31, 2015by: Paige Poorman

Program: Study Abroad in Prague, Czech Republic with WorldStrides

5

ISA was extremely organized and professional before, during, and after my time in Prague. I learned just as much in the classroom as I did outside of the classroom, and my professors made sure that field trips and cultural excursions were a part of the learning experience as well. ISA's resident staff made it easy to integrate into a new life and culture. They provided weekly educational and fun excursions either within Prague or in other parts of the country. My apartment was spacious and located right next to a metro station. The program and the city are both affordable. The ISA staff and Charles University professors did a great job of introducing students to everything there is to learn, see, and do in this unique city.

Es la Vida

March 31, 2015by: Connor - louisville, Kentucky

Program: Study Abroad in Valencia, Spain with WorldStrides

5

Living in Valencia, Spain for a month and a half was absolutely amazing! I could not have asked for a better host mom. She took me to many local events where I was able to really get a feel for the culture. She was an excellent cook and furthered my Spanish speaking abilities through daily practice. The Americans I studied with were great as well. Many of them I still talk to today because they were such an influential part of my life during my time abroad. Valencia is a fairly large city so there is plenty to do. Never did I feel unsafe and I would go back in a heart beat. The excursions that the ISA program took me on were spectacular. It's definitely a great way to see many of the different cities of Spain. !Hasta Lluego!

Semester in Sevilla

March 31, 2015by: Katy Sullivan - Greenville

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

5

I studied abroad in Sevilla, Spain for the spring 2014 semester. It was the most amazing experience and I learned so much about myself and about other people. Being immersed in another culture opened my eyes to many things. Going abroad through ISA made the transition from living in the U.S. to Spain so much easier. ISA is a great program and does everything that they can to provide you information about housing, safety, classes, places to sightsee, places to eat....the list goes on and on. Prior to leaving for Spain, I had about a million questions and whether I emailed or called the ISA office, they were always there to help!

Experience of a Lifetime!

March 31, 2015by: Elizabeth O'Brien - Marquette

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

5

I was lucky to spend the winter 2014 semester abroad in Sevilla, España. I had always wanted to study abroad in Argentina but by some luck, I traveled to Sevilla. This semester was by far the best experience of my life. I loved how supportive the ISA administration was in terms of helping us get the most out of our study abroad experience and putting us in contact with volunteer experiences that seemed most interesting to us. In addition I loved the cultural excursions we could participate in. It was a great way to meet natives and delve into the rich Spanish culture. Walking through Barrio Santa Cruz or watching the sunrise over the cathedral are some of my most fond memories. I wouldn't trade this experience for anything and am extremely grateful to ISA for all their hard work to make this semester the best!

Barcelona: the city that encompasses it all

March 31, 2015by: Kelsey - Spring Lake

Program: Study Abroad in Barcelona, Spain with WorldStrides

5

My study abroad experience in Barcelona through ISA changed my life entirely. When I was searching places to study abroad, I was trying to find a place that push my boundaries as well as having some elements that made me feel comfortable. I grew up in a small town, so I knew I wanted to try out a big city, which would make me feel very out of element. However, I knew I wanted to live somewhere that was a little like home, so it had to be on water. Barcelona, was the city I was looking for and more in that sense because it was a huge city, with water, beaches, and mountains. Once I knew the location, I had to find a program. I was recommended to go through ISA from my brother's roommate, who said he had a great experience. I was already looking at other programs when he recommended ISA, so I had to make a couple lists comparing other programs. At the end, ISA had the most benefits with it's cost of the program. It was also one of the most reasonably priced with everything it included. Excursions to 3 different places, housing, and the readily available on-site staff made it a clear choice. Academics: I've never learned so much in such little time. My relationship with my professor made my learning experience unforgettable. She truly wanted us to learn the language and the culture. I've never felt so challenged. However, it was in a way where I knew it wasn't just about passing the test, it was about learning this language in a way I would remember it for life. The small classroom size was perfect for being accountable and feeling comfortable enough to speak up even if you knew you might be wrong. Living situation: Going in alone, without anyone friends, was a great decision. My only regret is not doing a homestay to expand my language skills. However, living in apartment was a great real world experience of what it was like living in another country. ISA set up everything so it was easy to jump right in. Cultural immersion: ISA did set up events where you could be culturally immersed. Their intercambio program helped me improve my language so much because I was talking with someone one-on-one, instead of being in a classroom where a teacher can't correct your every sentence. I also formed a great friendship. However, I do think I could have done more myself to become more culturally immersed. Program Administration: The ISA on-site staff were some of the nicest people I've ever met. They were also extremely helpful with any questions I had. The ISA staff, in the U.S. and abroad, stick out because they truly want you to go abroad and have that experience, and are willing to help in any way possible for you to do that. Health and safety: I did not have any health issues abroad, but I felt very safe in the neighborhood I was located in. Social life: Barcelona is fantastic in the social life aspect, because it is a very social city, where you can go out a lot if you want to. However, there are lots of opportunities where there are activities that aren't going to a club, you can go to watch a movie in a park or at an old castle. There are a million of opportunities.

A different kind of learning experience

March 31, 2015by: Emily Rasch - Conklin
5

This was my second time studying abroad with ISA and I was not disappointed! The location of the program was spectacular and offered many cultural and outdoor activities, so I spent most of my weekends exploring the island with Brazilians and other international students. The ISA staff were very helpful and made sure we were all placed in appropriate classes and living situations, and also motivated us to take advantage of our time abroad. My only disappointment was the class offerings. Because our group was so small, many of my first choices were canceled after I had already applied to the program and I had to settle for classes I was less interested in. Overall, though, studying and living with a host family in Floripa was a valuable and unforgettable experience!

There is nothing worse in life than being blind in Granada

March 30, 2015by: Claire Scislowicz - Allendale

Program: Study Abroad in Granada, Spain with WorldStrides

5

To describe my experience in Granada, Spain through ISA, I would need a year. Or two. In reality, January 22nd – May 23rd were the best months of my life and I would not trade it for the world. Before coming to Spain, I tried to not have any expectations because I wanted to have an open mind about everything. And that is exactly what I did. Stepping off the bus in Granada was the best feeling ever. I was not aware of all the friends I was going to make, the trips I was going to take, and the experiences I was going to have. When I reflect on everything that has happened, I smile. The things about Granada that were most valuable to me were my host family, the trips I took, the memories I made, and the ISA staff. I cannot describe the love I had for my family. They truly are a second family. Even though my host mom hates flying, she told me she will fly to the United States for my wedding. My host dad asked me to help him download Skype for his phone so we could communicate after I left Spain (and we talk every week, if not more) How thankful I am to have lived with these wonderful people. Besides my family, I am so blessed to have traveled to Italy, Ireland, France, and Portugal. I had never traveled outside of the United States and now I can proudly say that I have been to five other countries. These trips have been some of the best memories of my life. Each day in Granada was unique. Whether I was walking to school, eating gelato at Los Italianos with friends, shopping in the Albayzin, or tanning at Garcia Lorca park, I made the most out of my time in Spain. Even though I am thinking about returning to Spain to teach, I don’t know the next time I will be around that many Spanish people. One Spanish woman who was very special to me is my "intercambio" Virginia who I have already blogged about. I met with Virginia every Monday for three hours and spoke Spanish to her while she spoke English to me. These three hours a week significantly improved my Spanish. Virginia is one of the sweetest and smartest women I know and I am so glad I met her. Of course, there were hard days here too where I missed my family and friends, but that's where the ISA support and staff felt like home. I would choose to study abroad with ISA countless times because of the extremely friendly and helpful staff that is available 24/7. I will never feel like I am home again because part of my heart will always be in Granada. That is the price I pay for the richness of loving and knowing people in more than one place.

Exceeding Expectations

March 24, 2015by: Emily E - Des Moines

Program: Study Abroad in Buenos Aires, Argentina with WorldStrides

5

When looking for a study abroad program, I was expecting a lot. I chose ISA because it had everything I wanted: homestays, great excursions, ability to take classes in Spanish, low cost, and awesome support. I had help from the ISA staff from the second I showed interest, and am still in contact with the staff (both in the U.S. and Argentina) to this day. One of my favorite parts of ISA's program in Buenos Aires was my homestay. My host parents, Carolina and Clavier, were incredible. They were funny, interested in me, great hosts, English-speakers, and had years of experience hosting students like myself. They gave me all the independence I wanted, but we always came together at dinner to speak in Spanish and talk about our days. I learned so much about Argentine culture and history from them, and really felt like I became part of the family. The ISA staff in Buenos Aires was also incredible. Guillermo, the program director, is extremely knowledgeable about Argentina and South America in general, and is always excited to help students out. Paula helped me find a place that I could volunteer, and also helped me with homework on occasion. Ines was fun and energetic, and led us on some amazing excursions including visits to Iguazu Falls, the Tigre Delta, and the Feria de Mataderos. Overall, ISA checked off all of the things I was looking for in a program, but also took it a step further. They offered the perfect balance of support and independence. As students we were given the tools we needed to thrive in the city, and could explore on our own after that. It was nice having independence, but also having the office as a safe space to ask questions and solve problems. I'm so happy I chose to go abroad with ISA, and wouldn't have traded my experience for the world!

A Life Changing Semester

March 23, 2015by: Joe R - Ohio

Program: Study Abroad in London, England with WorldStrides

4

Coming into college I knew I wanted to study Abroad and I was fortunate enough to find this program. ISA is awesome and super helpful from the start of the process through when you return to the U.S. They have a great staff in the U.S. that can answer questions quickly and help you pick the right program. The on site staff is also amazing and super helpful with anything. Overall this program was phenomenal, I would defenitly do it again and I am constantly looking for ways that I can get back abroad!

The Time of my Life

March 10, 2015by: Andrea - Cincinnati

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

TEAN was a wonderful program to go with. I never once felt confused about what was going on; I never felt unsafe; I certainly never felt like I was alone while I was there. Through times of homesickness, TEAN talked me through it and reawakened myself to how exciting Australia is, to the amazing trips they offer that made my time in Australia how special it was, laying on the beach in Fiji or exploring Sydney with the best experts on the city- TEAN employees!! I loved every minute the trip. Going with TEAN, however, is what made it the most enjoyable, exciting, exhilarating experience of my life.

Study Abroad Down Under

March 09, 2015by: knthompson93 - Denver

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Had the most amazing time of my life. ISA was extremely helpful with getting you to meet people in the program during their orientation. I had classes with other Australians and lived in a community with many people from different cultures as well as a few locals. I loved it so much that I am looking to go to graduate school in Australia.

Delicious, adventurous, historical, enlightening, and rewarding

March 02, 2015by: Bria Hutchinson - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

4

I visited my sister when she studied abroad in Spain and I knew I wanted to study abroad there, too. I also had a lot of background with the Spanish language and wanted to know more about its history and culture. Spain is so enchanting/magnetic that I was hooked the first time I stepped off the plane. My most memorable experience was when I met my best friend and another friend in Madrid. We spent the entire weekend navigating the city and its sites! Self-sufficient I truly can be! That experience along with studying abroad in general gave me a lot more confidence.

Oz Obsession

March 01, 2015by: Jamie Tomlinson - Pittsburgh, PA

Program: Study Abroad in Newcastle, Australia with WorldStrides

5

I spent five amazing months in the incredible land of oz! The Education Abroad Network helped me chose the right program for me with their detailed website on each University. The University of Newcastle was such a unique experience and I loved the being in a place that had a small city so there was always something to do, being conveniently located a ten minute bus ride to the beach or campus was great. I lived in group housing with around 20 Australians and 9 Americans. I also joined the University women's soccer team. Both of these experiences allowed me to be submersed in the Australian culture! I made lifelong friends and fell in love with Australia. I was also a 2 hour train ride from Sydney which is one of the most amazing cities in the world (yes that is a biased opinion, but oh so true)! I have never met such friendly people that were laid back but outgoing at the same time. The University of Newcastle had awesome events for students to get together, they even had an international scavenger hunt during "O-week" (orientation) where I met people from all over the world that I became very close with and spent most weekends with! TEAN offered an orientation in Sydney and a pre-semester excursion to Cairns where I did things I never imagined would be possible. For example, I was able to bungy jump, white water raft, snorkel the Great Barrier Reef, kayak, and sky-dive through a rainbow into the beach all in the same week! Talk about an adrenaline rush! I would 100% recommend this program and university!

Study Aboad @ Bond Uni

February 23, 2015by: CofCoverseas - Philadelphia

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Saying I found my study abroad experience to be very rewarding and valuable would be an understatement. Studying abroad and having the opportunity to live and learn in a new country was an experience that I will never forget; I made friends and memories that I will cherish for the remainder of my life and enjoyed traveling, meeting new people, and embracing the adventure that each day brought. Academically, Bond University required a great deal of effort to be put into classes, which was unexpected and initially challenging but the classes I enrolled in there were some of the most rewarding of my life. Classes were definitely not a “walk in the park” as often expressed by study abroad students (Bond Uni is a private school and renowned for being difficult). On a side note, it is quite difficult to focus on class when your backyard contains beautiful, endless beaches and sunny weather! My classes brought new perspectives and insight and I believe enhanced what have I learned and studied at my home university. The classes contained a lot of student led lectures and tutorials and a great deal of interaction. I chose The Education Abroad Network, commonly known as TEAN, program for the outstanding reputation that they hold and their connection with Bond University. Since my studies have always been an utmost priority to me, attending a highly distinguished and reputable school that fit my academic needs was essential. In Australia I was able to take courses I needed to complete my degree and ones that I was truly interested in; making sure I could finish my college degree requirements was a major aspect of my decision. I was effectively able to communicate with professors and locals alike in the English language and become involved on campus. At Bond I was able to blend high-level academics with real-life practical experiences. Choosing TEAN as a program was one of the best choices I have made and I have the utmost gratitude for my study abroad experience and have nothing but fond words to say about my experience in Australia and with TEAN. I believe their services and expertise in all areas are far superior compared to other competitive programs. After having spoken to other students who studied abroad and in other areas of Australia I believe I made the best decision by studying at Bond Uni and using TEAN. The company is extremely organized, always accessible, and, what I found to be the most valuable is the sincere interest they take in their student creating opportunities studies value and appreciate. They created trips throughout the semester, had the best living accommodation options, a week orientation, and had free culture and coffee “breaks” (events) that were never boring or felt like they “cut corners.” The TEAN staff did a wonderful job about preparing us culturally, academically, socially, etc. about what we were to expect in Australia in a fun and efficient manner especially during orientation. I believe every company should adapt their approach of finding a great balance between business and fun. By studying abroad I believe l have received a holistic education with a diverse range of approaches, settings, and dynamics. Throughout my experience, I am confident that studying abroad in Australia has allowed me to grow both academically and personally. I am forever grateful for the experiences I have had living, traveling, and studying abroad and regard my time there as the best of my life. I cherish the friendships and memories I have made abroad and I know they will last me lifetime and I have TEAN to thank.

Best 5 Months of My Life

February 16, 2015by: Anastasia Blood - Kingston RI

Program: Study Abroad in Sydney, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Going to Australia and studying at the University of New South Wales was both the opportunity and experience of a lifetime. I owe a lot of the awesome experiences I had in Australia to the program I went through- The Education Abroad Network. TEAN made everything very easy and gave many opportunities to experience the Australian culture. Some examples of this being organizing a trip to the horse races, and a mid semester trip to the great barrier reef! I learned so much about the Australian culture and about myself while studying abroad. While I did learn academically at UNSW, I also learned things that cannot be taught, but only experienced. I am forever grateful to TEAN for helping make my trip to Australia truly unforgettable.

When Can I go Back?

February 08, 2015by: Grace Sheppard - Ann Arbor

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

The experience of studying abroad at Bond University through The Education Abroad Network is something that nothing will be able to compare to. Before my semester even started, I got to travel to Fiji, a pre-excursion trip that TEAN offered. It was such a unique and amazing experience. Our orientation in Sydney was filled with so many cool activities that people travel all around the world to experience- Climbing the Sydney Harbor Bridge, Seeing the Opera House, going on a night cruise. Bond University was amazing as well. The campus was beautiful, the beach was a short ride away from our apartment, and everyday was spent sun bathing and eating great food. An unforgettable experience!

Adventure in New Zealand!

February 06, 2015by: Elizabeth - Williamstown

Program: Study Abroad in Christchurch, New Zealand with WorldStrides

4

I was nervous about studying abroad, but TEAN helped me jump right in by introducing us to great adventures right from the start. The orientation was awesome, both in Fiji and New Zealand. I didn't really know what to do with all my downtime after the program ended before the semester started, but once the semester got going I started to get to know people and go on trips. There's a big drinking culture on campus, and I'm not into partying, so I didn't meet a lot of people that way. Instead, I joined a tramping (hiking) club through my church, which gave me the opportunity to meet people and see the country at the same time. Bookme.co.nz is a great way to get discounts on fun things to do. Also, make sure you take extra time after the semester ends to explore without worrying about homework.

Finding a new home in a beautiful place!

February 06, 2015by: Elizabeth - Williamstown

Program: Study Abroad in Christchurch, New Zealand with WorldStrides

4

I was nervous about studying abroad, but my program did a great job of getting me pumped up about being there. We dove right in on the adventures. New Zealand is an amazing place to study. The lecturers at the University of Canterbury were enthusiastic, and the classes were very interesting. I don't party or drink, which limited my social interaction (since New Zealand universities have a big party culture), but I made friends with a lot of people from my local church. I joined the church tramping club and went hiking all over, which gave me the confidence to go on my own trips later on. Overall, it was an amazing experience. I learned a lot about myself and became much more confident.

TAKE ME BACK!

February 05, 2015by: Frany - North East

Program: Study Abroad in Shanghai, China with WorldStrides

5

Choosing TEAN as my program provider for my semester abroad was the best decision I made. From the start of my application process through the end of my semester, I received help with everything I needed. Academics: Due to my major, I took a lot of businesses classes and one beginner Chinese class to help me immerse myself within the culture. I had classes with many students from across the globe! The classes weren't too hard or too easy. You should be fine as long as you study and take notes. I was able to read signs in Pinyin and improve my language skills because of what I learned in my chinese class. Housing: I lived in an off-campus apartment five minutes away from Fudan. I found the location perfect because It was close enough to school and still in the center of the social scene. There were many restaurants and bars on the street I lived on and a metro stop nearby if I wanted to go to other parts of the city. There was a Wal-mart conveniently located nearby. They also deliver your groceries. There are also many gyms located around the area. The street food is delicious! Many street foods by Fudan and the apartments. Staff: The on-site resident director helped us with everything we needed. Responded to our questions in less than 24 hours! You don't realize how beneficial this is until you need help. Social: There is ALWAYS something to do in Shanghai! You'd have to try really hard to be bored. www.smartshanghai.com is a great site to find things to do.

I can't believe it's over!

February 05, 2015by: SatisfiedCustomer - NJ

Program: Study Abroad in Shanghai, China with WorldStrides

5

TEAN provided the best accomadations and cultural immersion. My classes were a range of business classes and one Chinese language class. The classes are not too hard or too easy. My classmates were from around the world. My Chinese language class was super fun and there was a total of 12 of us. We got a lot of our questions answered. The staff was always there whenever I needed help. My questions were answered in less than 24 hours. I lived in an off campus apartment that was only a 10 minute walk to Fudan. We got to go to ride camels in Mongolia and see the sunrise at the great wall. I made local Chinese friends and international friends from all over the world! I would definitely choose TEAN again!

Studying Abroad Through TEAN Changed My Life

February 05, 2015by: Nicholas Kontos - Chicago

Program: Study Abroad at University of Sydney with WorldStrides

5

Since Studying abroad in Australia my life has changed completely! The Australian lifestyle is amazing. They honestly enjoy life. Through TEAN I was given all the materials I needed to be immersed in Sydney life. I lived in an amazing apartment in the middle of Sydney that was a 15 minute walk from campus or a 5 minute bus ride. I was able to join any clubs and societies on campus that I wanted allowing me to meet locals very easily! All in all, I had the time of my life. TEAN really takes care of its students and gives you the best opportunities and experiences while abroad. Through TEAN excursions I went to Cairns, Sydney, Newcastle, Kayaked the Sydney Harbor, and so much more. The staff both in the US and in Sydney were so friendly and available whenever I needed them. If you are looking for an amazing program to study abroad with in Sydney, Australia, TEAN is the one for you!

A Life Changing Semester

February 04, 2015by: Michaela Wellman - Rhode Island

Program: Study Abroad in Townsville, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Studying at JCU was the best decision I have ever made. Townsville is a laid back city with beautiful beaches close to campus, so it was perfect for me. Living on campus in George Roberts Hall made my experience so special because I really got to indulge in the culture and make some really amazing Australian friends that I still stay in touch with. I met other Americans at JCU who did not go through any program to study abroad and they definitely did not have as great of an experience as me. TEAN was super helpful in every step of the process and were always there to answer any questions I had while abroad. They took all the stress out of my experience so I could enjoy it without worry. If I could restart my semester abroad I wouldn’t change a thing, (except maybe extending my stay!). TEAN truly made my time at James Cook University unforgettable!

The Best Months

February 04, 2015by: Mackenzie Allison - Des Moines, Iowa

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

When I first arrived in Gold Coast I thought that I had walked into my own dream. Studying abroad at Griffith University through The Education Abroad Network was the best decision I've made so far in my life. I have never felt so welcomed anywhere so quickly, starting with the orientation in Sydney. TEAN made adjusting to the culture and school work go seamlessly and the advisor in my city was able to give my friends and myself the best advice on what to see and where to go. All that combined with living just two blocks from the ocean made my study abroad dreams come true!

Irreplaceable

February 04, 2015by: Colin Phillips - Massachusetts

Program: Study Abroad in Dunedin, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

It's very difficult for me to put into words how I feel about studying abroad and what it meant to me. Studying abroad in New Zealand is the best experience I have ever had in my life. I would go back in a second if I had the chance. The memories I made in NZ will be with me forever, and I have so many I don't even know where to begin. From hiking to bungee jumping to studying at a world-known university, my time in NZ was truly spectacular. The Education Abroad Network made it so easy and fun to make it to New Zealand. TEAN was helping me every single step of the way. TEAN truly is an amazing program with great staff who really care about the experience you have, no matter where you end up going. Studying abroad was the best life choice I have ever made.

An Experience to Remember

February 04, 2015by: Haley - Charleston, SC

Program: Study Abroad in Auckland, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

The Education Abroad Network provided me with the most beneficial experience of my life. Going way back to the early stages of planning and questions, they made the transition from college here in the US to setting off on this adventure as smooth as possible. One thing this program gave me that the others could not was an orientation in another country- Fiji! I was thrilled. The time spent in Fiji was completely different from anywhere else in the world. This was my first time in another country, and Fiji opened my eyes to so many cultural experiences. Fiji has the most wonderful people I have ever come across and an experience that is hard to explain. The transition into NZ was smooth and TEAN was right there along the way. I had the chance to be independent and find my own path in this country while having a support system when I needed it. Everyone that worked with TEAN was fantastic. The organized cultural events, hiking trips, and rugby matches periodically, and even just going to dinner with them was a nice check in. They were a great team and a great network that could point you to the best activities to hit right in your city that month or best place to zip line. I could not imagine going back and doing it over again with any one else.

A Time Down Under to Remember!

February 03, 2015by: Miranda Mulcrone - Iowa City

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

The Education Abroad Network was a great choice for studying abroad! Whether the most important thing to you is finances, one-on-one advising, emotional support, safety or additional excursions and activities, TEAN can help your study abroad experience to be one to remember. It was my first time out of the country, and TEAN even helped me with getting my passport. Leaving the country for the first time without my parents was a scary experience, but the Education Abroad Network was there the whole time holding my hand to help me with anything I needed so I could really experience my life abroad.

Is it Time to Go Back Yet??

February 03, 2015by: Lizzy - lousiville

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

My experience in Thailand was truly indescribable thanks to The Education Abroad Network. A semester is such a short amount of time in retrospect, but TEAN helped me pack my time in Chiang Mai with the most amazing memories. They were with us right from the start to help us get acclimated to our home away from home with a stress free orientation that included Thai massages and a day with some incredible elephants! Once settled in I had all the independence in the world but still had a support staff to fall back on. The Thai roommate I was matched with showed me the city how only a local really could, and quickly became one of my dearest friends. I took classes on Human Security and Thai politics that helped me understand issues such as human trafficking from an entirely different point of view than what we often see back in the states. My teachers were passionate about their field as well as their students. I had the opportunity the teach English at a military base which was both a challenge and a joy; they taught me more than I could have ever hoped to teach them. TEAN included excursions to places I never would have gotten to on my own like Doi Inthanon or Chiang Rai that were off the beaten track. I never knew how deep The Education Abroad Network could immerse me during my time abroad I wouldn't change a thing. Wait--strike that-- I would change one thing. I wish I would have stayed for a whole year!

When I Left The Only Thing I Could Think Of Was Going Back

January 27, 2015by: Emily Padilla - Wappingers Falls

Program: Study Abroad in Wellington, New Zealand

5

My abroad experience will absolutely have a lasting impact on my life. Everything was just perfect, from the staff at The Education Abroad Network (TEAN) to the beautiful, picturesque scenery that surrounded me everyday. Without TEAN this trip may not have been possible. The program helped me every step of the way and made the whole process stress free. I had no idea what to expect as I began my journey to study abroad. I had so many questions... Where do I go? How will I get there? Can I even afford it? After I decided to go to New Zealand, TEAN helped me learn all I needed to know about leaving the country for the first time. I remember my parents looking over the program and a huge weight being lifted off of their shoulders. I had never been so far away from home and I had never been without my parents for so long. After they saw all of the support we had, they felt comfortable letting me go. TEAN helped buy affordable flights that included flights to Fiji, Auckland, and my home destination in Wellington. As a student on a tight budget I was worried study abroad would be out of my reach. Fortunately, I was wrong. Not only did I get abroad, but I had a program trip to Fiji, an 11 day trip around the South Island, many explorations around the North Island, and trips all around Wellington. TEAN even brought us to an ALL BLACKS GAME, which, might I add was awesome (the Haka gave me chills)!! I cannot thank TEAN enough for all they did for me. The on-site staff in Wellington was absolutely amazing. The Chicago staff was wonderful. Every little bump I had along the way was fixed quickly and efficiently by the TEAN staff. So, THANK YOU TEAN... can I go back yet?!

An Adventure Not to be Forgotten

January 22, 2015by: Haley Chelsvig - Des Moines

Program: Study Abroad in Dunedin, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

Although I was initially nervous when boarding my first flight to travel as far across the world away from everyone I knew, once I reached New Zealand I was instantly welcomed and made friends the very first day. TEAN put together a great orientation in which we got to be adventurous one day and learn about the Maori culture from an actual Maori lady (instead of doing it in a touristy way). Next was the trip to Fiji. I didn't choose to go through TEAN because Fiji was included, but let me tell you - it's definitely worth it. You don't have internet, cell phone service, or any way to contact the outside world while you are there. Instead, you get to focus on getting to know your future TEANers and exploring the island. Next, was school. I absolutely loved the University of Otago. It's a much larger university than what I was used to. I never would have thought I would enjoy a school that large. However, the class sizes aren't overwhelming, the professors are great, and the university has a million and one groups, organizations, and clubs to join. I spent every weekend adventuring, tramping, and exploring the countryside. I made some amazing friends and saw some of the most amazing scenery. I would 100 percent recommend having your home away from home be Dunedin.

One Big Adventure

January 08, 2015by: Emily Bensman - Dayton

Program: Study Abroad in Sydney, Australia with WorldStrides

5

My study abroad experience was nothing short of amazing. TEAN helped every step of the way and abled me to have the best 5 months of my life. I did so many exciting things from skydiving over the ocean to abseiling through a rainforest. I met people who impacted my life and will always be a part of it. I experienced so much in such a short amount of time and don't regret a single thing. Every aspect of my abroad experience was rewarding. The education, the living situation, the food, the people, the culture, and all of the opportunities and excursions offered throughout the semester contributed to an easy and amazing adventure.

The Education Abroad Network Opened My Eyes to the World of Travel

January 07, 2015by: Danielle Silverman - Pittsburgh

Program: Study Abroad in Wellington, New Zealand

5

It is hard to put into just a few sentences what a great impact my experience in New Zealand through the Education Abroad Network had on my life. The people I met, places I traveled, and experiences I gained were absolutely incredible. The staff at the TEAN office were extremely helpful from the beginning. They were always available and willing to help with every step of the process from acquiring a visa, to selecting classes to take the university, and even with packing tips. My abroad journey began with an orientation in Auckland followed by an amazing trip to Fiji. Throughout orientation we learned about New Zealand culture and started to get a feel of what it was like to become a member of their society. I could not be happier with my decision to study at Victoria University in Wellington. Wellington is the coolest little capital with mountains, city, and water all wrapped into one. There were always new places to eat, shop, and explore. Studying at the university was also a great experience. I was placed into classes full of Kiwi students, allowing me to make other friends besides other international students. I learned about New Zealand history and the country's larger position in the world and it was truly an eye opening experience. I would not trade my experience in Wellington New Zealand for anything in the world. I learned so much throughout the whole process and now hope to be able to travel to more beautiful countries in the future.

Valparaiso & Vina del Mar - the summer of a lifetime

December 30, 2014by: Hannah L - California

Program: Study Abroad in Chile with WorldStrides

5

I spent 10 weeks of a summer living in Chile with ISA and I could not have had a more incredible experience. I highly recommend ISA to anyone studying abroad anywhere in the world- they are professional, supportive, and ensured we were safe even when there were country-wide protests done by students to improve the university education system. I met so many wonderful new people and made lifelong friends and I have been wanting to go back and visit since the day I left!

Living & Loving Australia

December 29, 2014by: Daisy Alexander - Lexington, Kentucky

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Experiencing Australia was an opportunity that has made a huge impact in every aspect of my life. I not only made the best memories but also made the best friends over my four month study abroad. Through this program, it was easy to be immersed in the Aussie culture from day 1. I could not have asked for a better experience and I plan on returning to the Gold Coast where I made the most incredible memories with the most incredible people.

Semester in Spain

December 25, 2014by: Anna Krug - Ames

Program: Study Abroad in Granada, Spain with WorldStrides

5

There is not enough I can say about this program. The administrators are amazing, classes and professors are fun, social life was great, the city has so much to offer! Granada is an incredible place!!

TEAN opened me up to the world of travel

December 22, 2014by: Danielle Silverman - Pittsburgh

Program: Study Abroad in Wellington, New Zealand

5

It is difficult for me to wrap up how I feel about my experience with TEAN and with living/studying in Wellington and just a few sentences. TEAN provided me with the opportunity to explore new countries, cultures, and people, while discovering things about myself all at the same time. Before even leaving the US, the members of the TEAN staff were extremely helpful in guiding me through the visa process, choosing my classes, and makings sure that I was completely prepared for my trip abroad. All of the representatives on the phone were friendly, informative, and insightful even just while calling the office to ask a few last minute questions. Through TEAN I began my abroad experience in Fiji and then had orientation in Auckland. Just during orientation they gave us a thorough introduction to the culture, and gave us helpful ideas on how to fully assimilate into New Zealand culture. Living in the beautiful city of Wellington was the most amazing experience I've ever had. I had discovered a place that was mountains, city, and water all wrapped into one. A place that encouraged me to step outside of my comfort zone, a place of adventure, and of unique culture. I also really enjoyed studying at Victoria University of Wellington. I was able to learn more about New Zealand and its history, while also meeting Kiwi students in my classes and really getting a feel for what their daily lifestyle is there. The endless adventures and opportunities that TEAN provided for me, helped me to learn, grow, and most of all inspired me to travel in the future. I am so incredibly lucky to have been able to call Wellington New Zealand my home for 5 months and I am continue to count down the minutes until I return.

A Life Changing Experience; Can't Recommend Highly Enough

December 19, 2014by: Chad - Pittsburgh, PA

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

I was at first a little hesitant to study abroad in such an "unconventional" program, but I'm really glad I did. TEAN's orientation in Chiang Mai was incredibly helpful in getting used to Thailand and for bonding with classmates. Additionally, staying in a rural Thai village for a few days was a cultural eyeopener. In Chiang Mai, we lived in a beautiful off-campus dorm with local students, one of my favorite parts of the program. Classes at Chiang Mai University were both challenging and interesting and really helped us to obtain a better grasp on the country we found ourselves in. The Thai language course was especially helpful, and allowed us to get much more than the typical tourist experience. The few cultural and scenic excursions we went on were similarly helpful in immersing us in the country. The entire time, TEAN staff were ready to help out with problems or just grab a meal. In Vietnam, the 3 students lived in the same building but each had their own apartment with a private bathroom. Hoa Sen University was about 30 minutes by foot or 15 by taxi (in crazy Ho Chi Minh City traffic). The classes there were similarly interesting, and again, Vietnamese language really helped to immerse us in the culture. The in-country staff, Than, was always eager to help us out or just talk, and we often had meals with him. Thailand and Vietnam having completely different cultures provided for an incredibly interesting experience I would encourage anyone curious in the region to explore! I cannot recommend TEAN's program enough!

The Semester That Now Defines Who I Am

December 12, 2014by: Jack F - Fort Collins, CO

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

Thailand in itself is absolutely remarkable in every sense possible. Anyone who visits the country will be touched in the depths of their heart and soul and leave (if you ever actually do) inspired, happy, and planning your next trip back. TEAN was a great choice for many reasons, out of all the programs I have learned about TEAN gave the most bang for your buck while also being so down to earth and helpful along the way. They already have a number of excursions built into the price of the semester, so if the price is higher than some of your other options know that your getting hooked up! The staff at TEAN is awesome, our Australian TEAN employee (Lauren) who lived in Chiang Mai and guided us around on a number of occasions was like a mentor on so many levels, she looked out for us while also becoming a great friend to us all. The staff is approachable about anything and are so happy to help you enhance your Thailand experience. Studying in Thailand vs just visiting are 2 complete different experience. I now know so much detail about the countries history, culture, and politics which allows your to have a greater understanding of the country and your experience as a whole. The academics at CMU through TEAN are great and taught by some hilarious Thai professors as well as some Americans. After talking with other Americans studying abroad in Chiang Mai we learned that our program was envied by others because of everything we did. Weigh your options, but know that TEAN is the way to go!

Best 5 months of my life

December 11, 2014by: Dana K. - College Park, MD

Program: Study Abroad in Sydney, Australia with WorldStrides

4

The beach was my backyard, but in a quick bus ride, was in the city looking at the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbor Bridge. The people were friendly, the food was amazing, and the memories are unforgettable. I hope to go back in the near future to this beautiful country.

Australia: a trip of a lifetime

December 07, 2014by: Tania

Program: Intern Abroad in Australia with WorldStrides

4

Going to Australia was one of the best experiences I could have possibly decided to do, however my experience abroad turned out to be a bit more unique than your regular study abroad program. I broke my ankle two days before I was supposed to fly across the world. Having to change my flight to a week later, get two screws in my ankle to permanently put my foot together, and fly over and spend my entirety of my trip on crutches, you could say I was put to the test. TEAN however truly did help me as I attempted to mend myself. I had doctor visits to go to and therapy. I could not have done it without their helping hand, particularly one individual. I grew as a person because of my fallback and I thank TEAN for their helping hand.

Never Wanted to Leave!

December 03, 2014by: David Shaw - Manchester, New Hampshire

Program: Study Abroad in Wellington, New Zealand - Massey University

5

Wellington is to this day my favorite city in New Zealand and it was a privilege to be able to study at Massey in the city. The culture is so interesting and there is always something to do at any given point of the day. Whether it be a nice walk along the water front, going to Te Papa, the coolest museum (and its free), or going out at night with friends, Wellington really has it all. Massey was perfectly located just a short walk from downtown and made everything really easy to get to. I lived with 3 other New Zealand students and an American student, which was a good mix I felt. You get a single room with a full size bed, but the apartments are more like dorms than other schools living situations like Victoria (also in Wellington). Massey was a really cool school with a nice campus and really helpful and intelligent professors. Overall I couldn't have been happier with my experience and that all started with TEAN. The work they put in to make sure you are all set to go on your semester abroad, as well as the activities they set up once you get there are really helpful to make you feel comfortable in a new place, and to help entice the students to get to know each other and become friends. My best friends to this date have come through The Education Abroad Network and I am so thankful this is the program I chose to study abroad with!

Time Of My Life!

December 03, 2014by: David Shaw - Chelmsford

Program: Study Abroad in Wellington, New Zealand

5

Going abroad to New Zealand through The Education Abroad Network was the best decision I have made in my college career. The program does an amazing job of getting you prepared to go abroad, getting all of your documents in order, and reassuring you that they are there to help with any questions or problems. The friends that you make through the group become some of your best friends and that is due to the fact that TEAN does an excellent job preparing activities that get people to converse and really get to know each other. I would recommend studying abroad through TEAN to anyone!

An adventurous experience, leaving the comfort zone

November 18, 2014by: blythegreen - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Prague, Czech Republic with WorldStrides

5

Spending day-to-day activities with new best friends, walking around the city, and just being totally immersed in the new culture were truly memorable. I chose this program because it was affordable, has good reviews, and went with my major requirements.

A Very Well-Managed Experience

November 12, 2014by: Cubey - Cazenovia

Program: Study Abroad at Korea University with WorldStrides

5

My time abroad in South Korea was the first time I had ever left the country and I was not disappointed. Essentially this program started me off on the right foot of wanting to see the rest of the world. Our group was small and so we developed a good sense of unity. Even when we had to switch advisors, a potentially bad situation, the transition was incredibly smooth and the new advisor was just as capable despite us being her first group. Konkuk University had some stringent rules, but this helped us navigate cultural differences right from the start. The classes I took, although ranging from the sublime to the ridiculous, were also a great way to understand cultural differences. We were able to understand people our age and what sort of challenges they dealt with. I would recommend ISA's Seoul program to anyone. It was incredibly fun, educational and eye-opening. It gets you far and keeps you safe the entire time. The advisors (I had two of them) were candid and despite being incredibly busy, were interested in getting to know you as a person and respected you as an adult.

Love at First Sight

November 06, 2014by: Heather Renae - St. Peter, Minnesota

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

During my time in Chiang Mai, I had so many experiences I will never forget. The city and its people were absolutely beautiful, and TEAN’s program allowed me to experience the beauty of Thailand in an incredibly authentic and life-changing way. After we arrived at the airport, we were brought to a beautiful resort in one of the most iconic parts of the city known as Nimman. From the minute we began to drive through the city, I knew I was in the midst of an amazing adventure. It was love at first sight! We then proceeded to have the most awesome orientation experience. Our first few days in Thailand were packed with awesome food, beautiful places, and meaningful learning experiences that would help us make sense of the rest of our time there. As a group of TEANers (as I like to call us), we got to know each other in a way that I’ve never known another group of people. From then on, TEAN helped facilitate our experience in the city with a great balance. TEAN and the staff were available to help us, but never suffocated our own ability to have an amazing adventure. The staff was there with great advice on places to go and things to do. TEAN also took us on a spectacular trip to Krabi (an island in the south of Thailand) and on an unforgettable hiking excursion to Doi Inthanon. Overall, I can say only awesome things about my experiences with TEAN in Chiang Mai!

Unforgettable

November 05, 2014by: Jaclyn Vernet - Charleston, South Carolina

Program: Study Abroad in Newcastle, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Choosing to study abroad was a big decision and picking Australia and TEAN was the best choice I could have made. I had the most unforgettable time in Newcastle. I lived in the Samdon Street housing and really made the most of the immersive culture. Living with a bunch of Australian students and truly feeling Australian was crucial for me. I really liked how I wasn't constantly surrounded by other Americans. I also thought TEAN was an amazing provider. The orientation was super, I didn't feel overwhelmed and it was a great mix of being able to go off on your own with new friends and planned activities. I also got a good grasp on Sydney (a place I traveled to weekly while in Newcastle). The University of Newcastle was a good mix between social and academically challenging. I took interesting classes that transfered to my home college without flaw. Overall Australia became a home away from home and I cannot wait to return in the near future.

Experience of a Lifetime!

November 04, 2014by: Samantha Tanner - Pleasantville, NY

Program: Study Abroad in Sydney, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad was the best experience of my life. I was able to live in a foreign city for five months and explore a totally new culture! Australians were welcoming and Sydney had so much to offer. I was never bored and I was constantly traveling to new places. The Education Abroad Network does a fantastic job at getting you acquainted with your city before “setting you free.” TEAN staff is always available whenever you need help or advice. They have coffee meet ups and dinners throughout the semester, which were an excellent and fun way to catch up with friends. I made lifelong friends and unforgettable memories in this program. TEAN truly mad my study abroad experience perfect.

Take me Back!

October 24, 2014by: Elizabeth Wluka - Syracuse, Ny

Program: Study Abroad in Sydney, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Going through TEAN was such a rewarding experience all around. I’m not sure I would have gone abroad to Australia if it were not for TEAN. I decided I wanted to study in Sydney Australia, travel alone, and meet new people. I chose TEAN because they set up everything for you and make sure you are taken care of. Traveling to Australia alone sounds terrifying, but I can honestly say I never had anxiety once before or during my trip because of TEAN. TEAN set up my housing, roommates, group flights, pre semester and spring break trips. TEAN really makes everything easy. Traveling by myself through TEAN made me feel like I was never traveling alone. TEAN also offers a five day orientation before the semester starts. This gives students time to explore, learn and most importantly adjust to Sydney, Australia. The staff is extremely sincere and helpful throughout the whole process and a guide you through your entire semester.

Breathtaking!

October 22, 2014by: Meyer

Program: Study Abroad in Wellington, New Zealand

5

The most memorable experience for me was my week long trip to the norther part of the south island stuffed in a car with the people that would become 5 of the best friends I've ever had. We arrived in Wellington almost a week before classes started so we decided to use that time to explore. We spent 3 days backpacking, took a bike wine tour and camped in the middle of a field surrounded by the most beautiful mountains. At the beginning of the week, my companions we just some random people who wanted to travel and by the end they were some of the greatest people I've ever met. It was truly the experience of a lifetime. I chose my program based on how helpful they were before I even committed to traveling with them. They answered all of my questions and never pushed me to make one decision or another. The staff was young and excited, with the same passion for travel as I had. After speaking with them, I knew they were the right choice and they continued to be helpful throughout the entire process. I lived in a 5 bedroom flat really close to campus. I had two female and two male roommates, who were all great. One of them was our 'kiwi-mate' who lived with us and helped us navigate though New Zealand culture. We all had our own room and a full kitchen and living room. The only downside to the flat I lived in was we were hooked to campus internet, which got REALLY slow when classes we in session, which happened to coincide with the times I could skype family. Other than that, a great experience.

Life-altering, exhilarating adventure

October 21, 2014by: Jnicholson

Program: Study Abroad at University of Sydney with WorldStrides

4

TEAN was absolutely the program for me. They were available 24/7 and had the most friendly and supportive staff. They had optional trips and got us familiar with the city. They helped with housing and matched us with roommates. I never felt lost or confused. If you want an experience where there is always someone to contact but also allows you to be independent, TEAN is for you. The optional trip to Thailand. Definitely! We rode elephants, stayed in a local village, and snorkeled off speed boats. I chose the program because they specialized in Australia. Instead of being spread out between multiple countries, they were smaller and focused. An apartment with two bedrooms, two bathrooms, washer/dryer, kitchen, living room, and balcony. Four girls to an apartment. It was right in the center of Sydney and walking distance from several of the universities, grocery stores, restaurants, and malls.

Hands down!

October 21, 2014by: L.L.

Program: Study Abroad in Shanghai, China with WorldStrides

5

My most memorable experience during my semester abroad is visiting my birthplace, Hong Kong for the first time in my whole entire life. I remember my first night there, I was in disbelief. I arrived at my hostel around midnight but I was so restless I just wanted it to be morning time already so I can wander around. I felt most comfortable with TEAN. They handle everything from start to end. They even include a few group excursions to enhance the experience for those who are not as comfortable going off on their own. I lived in an apartment that was located 5 minutes walking distance to the university. I lived with other students from america who also went through TEAN, and a local Chinese roommate.

TEAN all the way.. even around the world!

October 21, 2014by: Janelle - New England

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

The Education Abroad Network (TEAN) is the best and most helpful program to guide a student going abroad. When I decided to study abroad, I wanted to attend the study abroad fair. However, I had class and had to rush through and just grab a bunch of brochures from all the tables with programs for Australia. Later that day I went through them and knew that TEAN was the one. It was the only one with clear details and helpful information. It was also extremely welcoming and looked like the most fun! And everything I got the impression of from TEAN, turned out to be true. They were so much more helpful to us TEAN Bondies than other American students at Bond were helped by their study abroad programs. We also had more fun :)

Best 5 months of my life!

October 21, 2014by: Jill Transou - Little River

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Deciding to study abroad was not an easy decision, but it was the best decision I ever made. I was able to travel the east coast, skydiving in Byron Bay, scuba diving on the Great Barrier Reef, wine and cheese tasting in Tasmania, a comedy show in Melbourne and bungy jumping in New Zealand. I made lifelong friends during my travels on the weekends, and met with students in my classes for projects during the week. Through efficient time management I was able to plan trips almost every other weekend and still keep up with my grades. I lived in the Griffith University Village where I had great roommates and was able to meet people from all around the globe. I was able to do this by going to local yoga classes, meeting people through various social events and really immersing myself into the culture. I loved getting to live in a village of domestic and international students because I was able to meet and become friends with many of them. The food was also really great, from the famous meat pies to kangaroo dishes; I was able to try all of the authentic and local foods around town. I never had a problem with money while abroad because I set up an extensive weekly budget that kept me on track for the semester. I would absolutely recommend studying abroad to any student because it opens you up to so many possibilities and allows you to experience another culture.

By far the best decision I have made

October 21, 2014by: Chrissy B.

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

My most memorable experience on the trip was being able to sit down and talk with the monks. Monks in Thailand sit higher than even the King, so they were instantly a huge point of interest for me. Not to mention, you always see them walking around but they mostly keep to themselves so they are quite mysterious. However, on one of our field trips we took a trip to the Wat Suan Dok temple specifically to talk to the monks. It was scary at first because their rank is quite intimidating; however, they are some of the most humble, down to earth, and open people I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. After the talk, we were able to have lunch with them and before we ate they all chanted a prayer for us and wished blessings upon us and it was one of the most humbling experiences. For years I had always wanted to visit Thailand; however, my school did not offer any programs in Thailand. The Education Abroad Network was one the first and one of the only programs I could find that allowed me to travel to Thailand. Once I learned that the program allowed you to live in the historical city of Chiang Mai, allowed you to live among other students and with a Thai roommate, and allowed a 1 week break to explore Thailand or neighboring countries I was sold. Myself and everyone on my trip lived in the UniLofts, which was off campus student housing. Our rooms where apartment style dorms, so myself and my roommate each had our own rooms. I loved staying in UniLoft because it was comfortable, in an awesome location (in walking distance from CMU, surrounded by great places to eat, and just a small drive from the Old City where all the fun happens) and the grounds included a laundry mat, dry cleaners, computer lab, 7/11 (which is where people in Thailand get everything from) and two pools.

I cannot say enough good things

October 21, 2014by: Molly

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

My most memorable experience was the TEAN trip to Krabi, in the southern Thai islands. I had never seen such natural beauty before in my life, and we went snorkeling, laid on the beach, rock climbed and ate amazing food! I chose to study abroad in Chiang Mai with TEAN because of how organized the program seemed to be, and how quickly the TEAN staff responded to any of my questions about Thailand as I was preparing for the semester. It also was the most affordable program, while still including excursions and other fun things. The accommodation was great. We lived in the Uniloft dormitory, which was in a very central location to everything and just a short 15 minute walk to our classes on Chiang Mai University's beautiful campus. Some of us were paired with another Thai college student as our roommate and others were paired with other international study abroad students.

I had the most amazing time!

October 21, 2014by: Jaclyn

Program: Study Abroad in Newcastle, Australia with WorldStrides

5

My most memorable experience was my trip to Bali with friends. Bali was a place I have always wanted to travel to and being able to visit with friends was unbelievable. The people and the laid back culture there can't be replicated anywhere else in the world. It was also very inexpensive which allowed us to do whatever we wanted. I chose TEAN because right from the start they made me feel really comfortable and they were really committed to making sure I was alright through every phase of study abroad. There was always someone available to talk with, they responded to my parents quickly and made the application and transfer process super easy. Samdon Street housing is a huge share house in Newcastle's Hamilton suburb. It was the best place to live because I wanted to get really involved with the local culture and living with a ton of locals made that really easy. I feel like it gave me a truly unique experience because I was around Australians 24/7. Hamilton is also a very cute area with lots of cafes and stores to buy necessities. The train station was also a 10 minute walk and this train could go to campus and Sydney so traveling was always simple.

TEAN gave me my favorite semester of college yet!

October 20, 2014by: EmilyC - Pittsburgh

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad at Griffith University on the Gold Coast through TEAN was the best decision that I have made so far in college. Before we even left, TEAN was super organized and prepared for any question I had. They helped me decide on a school and a location to study based on my interests and major. They helped coordinate my flights, my visa, the scheduling of my classes, and so much more. They even offer some incredible pre-semester trips to the Great Barrier Reef and Byron Bay to go on before the semester even started. When you arrive in Australia, TEAN offered a week long orientation in Sydney, Australia before I left for the Gold Coast. This was a great transition into the semester and it made transitioning into a new culture as stress free as possible. They had included activities and it was great to make friends with people studying in Australia at other schools and locations so you had the option to crash on their couch if you are traveling!! Griffith was a beautiful school and all my course conveners were extremely helpful and my classes were very interesting. Griffith also has a lot of extracurricular clubs and sports and sponsors a few themed parties and activities throughout the semester. I joined the Outdoor Adventure Club. We did a sunrise hike up Mount Warning, canoeing trips, hiking trips, climbing trips and pretty much any other outdoor activity you can think of. The Gold Coast in general had a never ending supply of relatively cheap activities, there was always something to do! I loved the Gold Coast cause the public transportation made it SO easy to travel all over the Gold Coast and really get to know the area. There are beautiful rain forests for hiking, a new beach to relax or surf on almost everyday, paddle boarding, kayaking, markets, international food fairs, music festivals, rock pools, water falls, amusement parks, and tons of bars and clubs to spend your nights. Studying on the Gold Coast was definitely my favorite semester of college so far. I met some of the most amazing people, made some long lasting friends from all over the world, learned so much about the Australian culture, saw the most beautiful places I have ever been to, and did so many new and exciting things. My only regret about studying abroad is that I did only a semester instead of a year!!! I highly recommend studying on the Gold Coast at Griffith Uni through The Education Abroad Network.

This program, university, and country are the best!

October 16, 2014by: Luke Pabst - Grand Rapids, MI

Program: Study Abroad in Dunedin, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

I loved this place. I've always wanted to travel to New Zealand, and it did not let me down at all. I loved traveling, hiking, bungy jumping, parasailing, meeting new people, and even my classes at the university. Dunedin is the perfect location for both travel and university life in New Zealand. My program even set up a trip for us to go to Fiji for orientation. Some of the friends in my program, university, and flat I still keep in contact with today, and I consider them some of my best friends.

The experience of a lifetime...

October 15, 2014by: Shannon M

Program: Study Abroad in Wellington, New Zealand

5

My experience in New Zealand is one I wouldn't trade for anything. In 5 month, I learned more about myself and the world around me than an entire lifetime of school could teach. New Zealand is a truly breathtaking place, filled with so much wonder. There is something for everyone, from beaches and sailing to mountains and skiiing. In those 5 month I made the best friends any person could ask for. I climbed mountains with them, swan in the oceans of Fiji and jumped off bridges. I would ABSOLUTELY recommend this program, because without TEAN, I'm not sure my experience would have been the same.

Experience of a Lifetime

October 15, 2014by: Shannon Meyer - Charleston

Program: Study Abroad in Wellington, New Zealand

5

I can not speak more highly of this program. After returning to the US I have told anyone who will listen that they should go to New Zealand and go through TEAN. They made the often terribly confusing process of going abroad a breeze and their entire staff is more than willing to help you every step of the way. They don't stop once you leave the US either. Their orientation made me feel so comfortable in a completely new country and I had the more fun in the first 48 hours in New Zealand than I had in the past year. The country is beautiful and offers something for everyone. I was able to experience things that shocked my friends from home and things I never thought I do myself. Overall, this was the best decision I made in my 4 years of college and wouldn't trade it for anything.

TEAN gave me some of the best months and most memorable experiences of my life.

October 13, 2014by: eec45

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

I am so thankful that I studied abroad with The Education Abroad Network. Before studying abroad, they provide great descriptions and information about all the places they send students to study, and personally helped me find the place that was right for me. They asked me about my interests and what I was studying and gave me honest feedback on where they thought I would enjoy studying the most. They partner with great Australian Universities, and I loved my time studying at Griffith University on the Gold Coast. They make an effort to put their students in great housing and provide a variety of options. I lived in the beach housing offered by TEAN which was in a great location. There was tons of things to do in this area, all without walking distance. AND it was conveniently located right near any public transportation that you would need. The Gold Coast has a never ending supply of things to do without burning a hole through your wallet. I made some of the greatest friendships I have ever made with a variety of Australians, people from all over the world, and my wonderful roommates. I thank TEAN for helping me plan my trip to Australia and doing so many things to help my transition to the other side of the world go as smoothly as possible. My semester abroad with TEAN on the Gold Coast gave me some of the best months of my life. Academics: The classes I took were very interesting. My course conveners presented the information in an interesting way and were extremely accommodating and helpful. Also, with the tutorials and labs in some of my science classes, I was able to apply my knowledge while also building closer relationships with my tutors and classmates. Living Situation: I lived in the Beach Housing in Broadbeach. The complex had a helpful staff, security at night, and was very well maintained. It was also in a great location with many things to do and with easy access to public transportation. Cultural Immersion: It was easy to meet local Australians in the Gold Coast and they were very willing to immerse you in the culture. They always wanted to show me the area, teach me new things about Australia, and really helped me to see some of the cultural differences between Australia and the US. Program Administration: TEAN was very helpful before and during my semester abroad. Before I left, they always answered my emails and phone calls quickly, and they were very thorough and honest. They were also very organized. I went on a TEAN mid-semester break excursion to New Zealand and they were very organized in making sure all activities were planned and that we had proper transportation.

Best Australia Experience Out There

October 10, 2014by: Emma1234

Program: Study Abroad in Newcastle, Australia with WorldStrides

4

Going to Australia was always a dream of mine and TEAN made it come true. I think studying abroad is something that every college student should do. Experiencing a different culture is enriching and definitely opened my eyes to the differences but also the similarities our cultures have. TEAN made the whole process so easy and then while in Australia were only a phone call away. If I had to do it all over again there is only one thing I would change. Instead of doing a semester I'd do a full year. :) My most memorable experience was creating amazing friendships with the local Australians I lived with and all of the traveling that I did (Sydney, Great Barrier Reef, Whitsundays, and Melbourne). I chose my program because they were the most professional program I found while researching programs. I found that their website was so easy to navigate which made the whole beginning process so easy. TEAN' s staff members are all so amazing and their on site representative was so enthusiastic and passionate that she really made the difference for me. Best living situation that TEAN offers is through the University of Newcastle. I lived with local Australian students in a large house. We had two community living rooms (flat screen tv, couches, tables), a (fully equipped) kitchen, washer and dryer. Grocery stores, cafes, shoppes, and restaurants were all within a 5 minute walking distance. I used the bus and train to get to school everyday. I it absolutely love this housing it enhanced my experience while abroad because we got to live with locals and build amazing friendships. Absolutely loved it. The TEAN staff from program administration to on site staff members are incredible. They are so helpful, patient and understanding. I probably emailed on staff member 20 time in the course of one week and she always responded quickly and was happy to answer any concerns I had (and the concerns of my mom haha) TEAN holds free cultural events for the students through out the semester. While abroad I saw a show a the Sydney Opera House, a friendly international soccer game between the Socceroos (Australia's National Team) and South Aftrica's national team, and also took a free surfing lesson at Australia's iconic Bondi beach. These events were not only FREE but so much fun. If you study in Newcastle you have to go to Euro Bar (its a cafe) in Hamilton. Or in actual Newcastle you have to go to Customs, best beer garden! I never had any health issues while abroad.

Best choices I made

October 10, 2014by: Lauren Lydon

Program: Study Abroad in Brisbane, Australia with WorldStrides

5

When planning to study abroad, the best choices I made were going withTEAN as my provider and studying at the University of Queensland. They set us up with housing, (which was right across from campus), helped out with choosing classes, paperwork and most of all, they made all that paper work worth it! I am also very happy with my decision of choosing UQ. Before I studied abroad I saw a quote about Brisbane's weather "Beautiful one day, perfect the next." Everyday I was there I was reminded of this quote because its so true! Brisbane is the perfect location leaving day and weekend trips very easily to plan. UQ's academics were also great! Let me tell you, those classes were not easy, but I feel like I learned so much! All of the professors were also great. UQ also offered great clubs for students, especially one called "Quest." It was a group of International students and those students from UQ who want to go abroad in the future. In this club, they had trips which could bring us all around the east coast. Overall, it was the best decision of my life! Academics: I enjoyed Australia's Marine Environment which included 2 field trips! I also took Australia's Indigenous Art, Popular Music of the 1950's Onward, and Australian indigenous Issues: Past, Present, Future. Living Situation: Couldn't be better! Excellent location, fully furnished, great roommates! Cultural Immersion: TEAN provided cultural immersion activities for us such as AFL games, Australian Indigenous Tour, Lawn Bowling, coffee breaks, visit to the wildlife parks. Program Administration: Extremely helpful!

The Best Semester of My Life

October 10, 2014by: TravelBug1993

Program: Study Abroad in Newcastle, Australia with WorldStrides

5

If you want to get involved on campus and truly get to know the native Australians in this laid-back beach town, TEAN Newcastle is for you! Health and Safety: Very Safe! Social Life: Newcastle is just a 2 hour train ride away from Sydney ($8 roundtrip with concession). I found myself going to Sydney to visit my Sydney TEAN friends almost every weekend. Obviously Sydney has superb night life!

My best decision

October 10, 2014by: L. Lydon

Program: Study Abroad in Brisbane, Australia with WorldStrides

5

My most memorable experience abroad was the Byron Bay pre-semester excursion. During this time, my TEAN group I was with became very close while spending 4 days in Byron Bay. These 4 days were action packed with kayaking with dolphins, snorkeling, horseback riding on the beach, surf lessons, hang gliding, and our tour around the lighthouse. All of these factors made one of the most memorable experiences for me while in Australia and it was all because of TEAN! I chose The Education Abroad Network after seeing all of the great reviews for it! TEAN definitely exceeded my expectations and was very helpful with preparing me for UQ, while I was there, and now that I have been back. They definitely take away all the extra stress a student has about paperwork, finding housing before being abroad, and getting transcripts to transfer back so you make the most of your time while there! The excursions were definitely a plus! :) I lived in an apartment with three other American students. One other girl and two guys. It was two bed room, two bathroom, a kitchen, living room, and the balcony where I spent most of my time! We lived right across from UQ, taking us about 8-10 minutes to walk to each class. The bus stop and ferry stop were also 8-10 mins away, with taking about a 15 minute bus ride into the city. The apartments themselves were very modern and came fully furnished thanks to TEAN! They even provided us with bedding, pots and pans, everything that we need to get by for the semester and more. I enjoyed Australia's Marine Environment which included 2 field trips! I also took Australia's Indigenous Art, Popular Music of the 1950's Onward, and Australian indigenous Issues: Past, Present, Future. TEAN provided cultural immersion activities for us such as AFL games, Australian Indigenous Tour, Lawn Bowling, coffee breaks, visit to the wildlife parks. Couldn't be better! Excellent location, fully furnished, great roommates! The Exchange Hotel for $1 tacos on Thursday Nights along with great live music ;)

The Best Semester Of My Life

October 10, 2014by: M. Wood

Program: Study Abroad in Newcastle, Australia with WorldStrides

5

If you want to get involved on campus and truly get to know the native Australians in this laid-back beach town, TEAN Newcastle is for you!

Best experience of my whole entire existence

October 07, 2014by: Ling

Program: Study Abroad in Shanghai, China with WorldStrides

5

This was hands down the best decision I've ever made. Deciding to pack up and move to a different country for 6 months is scary! TEAN helped me through the whole process of applying, all the way up to when I landed back home in the U.S. I've seen so much and learned so much during my time abroad. I miss it dearly :(

Best experience of my whole entire existence

October 07, 2014by: Ling Le - Shanghai

Program: Study Abroad in Shanghai, China with WorldStrides

5

You can never be completely ready for a semester abroad in a totally different country. Its impossible to plan out every single thing that might happen. Luckily I had TEAN by my side. They helped me from start to end. From the beginning processes of choosing classes that would transfer back to my home university, to planning my trips outside of the program itinerary while abroad. It is the best 6 months of my entire existence. I would go back and do it all over again.

An Amazing Experience

October 02, 2014by: Jaclyn V

Program: Study Abroad in Newcastle, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Choosing to study abroad with TEAN was one of the best decisions I have ever made. I had the most amazing time in Newcastle and traveling all over Australia. I really immersed myself in the culture and people. It opened a lot of new doors for me and helped me realize valuable things about myself as a person. I think living in the Samdon Street housing was a great experience because I lived with lots of locals who turned into life long friends.

With the most cultural immersion opportunities available

October 02, 2014by: Carolyn

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

5 days into the program, we were sent to a local village to experience how 80% of Thailand lives. We stayed with host families, planted rice, taught at a local school, and experienced the happiness that comes from the simple life. I was very nervous for this 5 day excursion, but it ended up being my favorite part of the whole program! I chose TEAN because it had the most cultural immersion opportunities available. I was able to live with a Thai roommate, volunteer with at a school, and go on excursions that supplemented my learning so well.While deciding on a program, TEAN staff was extremely helpful and friendly and went above and beyond answering any question I had for them. Uniloft is an apartment building just outside of the CMU back gates. It houses 99% students. There are separate buildings for boys and girls and a common area for studying, a gym, a dance room, laundry facilities, restaurants, and a 7/11. Each room consisted of a living room with a TV and fridge and two bedrooms that had built in desks. We had our own bathrooms, walk in closets, and a balcony. We lived with Thai roommates, but the floor we lived on with filled with other American students and their Thai roommates.

The Best Decision I Have Ever Made

October 02, 2014by: Carolyn Wallace - Chiang Mai

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

Going abroad with TEAN to Chiang Mai completely changed my life. If I could stay there forever, I would have. TEAN 's program perfectly combined all of the components that make a study abroad experience. Classes were engaging and taught me useful information and skills that helped me get more from my time in Thailand. Our living situation was perfect- living in new apartments with Thai roommates completely made my experience. From the Thai's, I learned a new way of life and a new path to happiness. My mind was opened to the diversity that fills our world and I learned not to judge a culture before experiencing it. My mind was also opened by the amazing excursions that TEAN brought us on. From the gorgeous islands to the historically rich north to the bustling world of Bangkok, TEAN supplemented my learning perfectly with educational and fun field trips. In Bangkok, our teachers set up meetings with the former prime minister and the current head of the senate, an opportunity most Thai students never even have. Volunteering through TEAN was another one of my favorite parts of the program. TEAN helped me secure placements in both a local school and Burmese refugee center teaching English. Volunteering was another way for my to engage directly with Thai culture and I was able to see a different side than the Thai university student. I am grateful for every second abroad because of how it changed my perspective and attitude towards life. I had the most exciting, relaxing, and rewarding 5 months of my life and I owe all of that to TEAN. Our TEAN staff was amazing! I saw them as my cool psedo-parents who were there whenever I needed anything. They were so helpful with everything from helping us when we were sick to showing us cool things to do around the city. I felt safe and comfortable going to them with any concern I had. I don't think I could have been more integrated! TEAN provided me with a Thai roommate and Thai friends who enriched our experience so much more. Also TEAN offered volunteer placements which allowed me to interact with Thai people not attending the university. I adored living with a Thai roommate and still had American friends in my hallway for support. Uniloft was incredibly nice and clean and had all the amenities I needed. Amazing professors and class content. I was able to learn so much valuable information about Thai history and culture that enhanced my experience abroad. I learned a lot from the courses but was never swamped with work. We went ons several academic excursions where we were able to see amazing things we learned about and meet very important people! Our professors had incredible connections and used them to enrich our learning experience. Go to a Chiang Mai Football Club game! Take a day to walk around the old city and explore temples. Eat authentic Burmese cuisine at The Swan. Listen to great music at Boy Blues Bar. Visit Sticky Falls outside of the city. Go to local markets.

Unforgettable Experience

October 01, 2014by: cbrimmage1

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

Taking this study abroad trip was by far the best decision I have made during my college experience (and possibly life). The Education Abroad Network made sure we got the most out of our experiences by providing us with clean and comfortable living, Thai roommates, awesome courses and even better professors. As a business major, I wanted to learn more about the globalized world, and what better way to do that then studying business in Thailand? The one business class I took abroad taught me more than any business course I ever took at my home university because it was expansive and realistic. We weren't just learning about textbook definitions and equations, we were out in the country experiencing it. Beyond just business, I learned so much about the country and myself. My most important takeaway is that I learned that the world is a lot bigger than my backyard. There are hundreds of thousands of other cultures, people, ideas and opportunities waiting for you when you leave your comfort zone and this study abroad trip helped me realize this. I feel like I was given a gift that has helped me grow and learn into a person I couldn't have previously imagined!

The Best 5 Months of My Life

October 01, 2014by: mtwind103

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

I cannot say enough good things about my time in Chiang Mai, Thailand with The Education Abroad Network (TEAN). The program offered wonderful support throughout the semester, provided us with a nice, clean living facility with Thai roommates, and someone was always available to answer any of our questions. TEAN hosts several excursions and events throughout the semester, all of which are amazing, and the program also works well for taking trips to other parts of Southeast Asia or Thailand on your own or with friends. Living in Chiang Mai was truly the best five months of my life, and I cannot wait to return! The local Thai people could not be nicer, and there is also a cool expat community of westerners who live in Chiang Mai as well. Getting around the city is easy and everyone is so friendly that exploring Chiang Mai was never a problem, and I loved finding all my favorite spots - coffee shops, restaurants, bars, places to go dancing, places to meditate and hike, etc. Living in Chiang Mai also provides such an amazing perspective on different parts of the world, different cultures and religions and spiritualities, and truly opened my eyes and my heart to an entirely new place and entirely new people. If you are considering studying abroad in Southeast Asia, I highly recommend doing so in Chiang Mai through TEAN!!

The Best Decision I've Ever Made

October 01, 2014by: Molly - Madison

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

I cannot say enough good things about my time in Chiang Mai, Thailand with The Education Abroad Network (TEAN). The program offered incredible, constant support throughout the semester, provided us with a nice, clean, centrally-located living facility with Thai and International roommates, and someone was always available to answer any of our questions. The TEAN excursions are amazing, and the program also offers flexibility for taking trips to other parts of Southeast Asia or Thailand on your own or with friends. Living in Chiang Mai was truly the best five months of my life, and I cannot wait to return! The local Thai people could not be nicer, and there is also a cool expat community of westerners who live in Chiang Mai as well. Getting around the city is easy and everyone is so friendly that exploring Chiang Mai was never a problem, and I loved finding all my favorite spots - coffee shops, restaurants, bars, places to go dancing, places to meditate and hike, etc. Living in Chiang Mai also provides such an amazing perspective on different parts of the world, different cultures and religions and spiritualities, and truly opened my eyes and my heart to an entirely new place and entirely new people. If you are considering studying abroad in Southeast Asia, you should absolutely do so in Chiang Mai through TEAN!

Experience of a Lifetime

October 01, 2014by: Chrissy B - Atlanta

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

Just as the title says, this was an experience of a lifetime. I was scared to go abroad because I had previously never been out the country; however, my program helped me to have one of the best experiences of my life. The Education Abroad Network really made sure to have all basis covered by providing us with on site staff, Thai roommates, an awesome place to live (The UniLoft's) and rigorous but rewarding classes. I had class every day for 3 hours a day but I never felt overwhelmed or exhausted. Especially since a lot of class time was spent taking field trips to learn about Thailand by actually immersing ourselves in it rather than just reading about it. Not to mention, Chiang Mai was the absolute perfect city. It's a mix of old and new, so although it appears pretty modern, a lot of its history and traditions shine through strongly. It's the perfect place for someone who wants to learn and experience the real side of Thailand (not just touristy Thailand) but also live it up. There are over 200 temples in Chiang Mai plus museums, both art (make sure you go to the Art in Paradise museum!) and historical, but there are also really great clubs (make sure you go to Zoe's!), stores, and restaurants (Penny's on Suthep Road is a favorite). Also for nature people like me, there are beautiful waterfalls ( go to Bua Tong!), mountains, and hikes around almost every corner. If I could move to Chiang Mai, Thailand tomorrow, I would with no hesitation.

Life Changing Experience

September 30, 2014by: Emma - Rhode Island

Program: Study Abroad in Newcastle, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Going to Australia was always a dream of mine and TEAN made it come true. I think studying abroad is something that every college student should do. I mean come on what student wouldn't want to spend 5 months in a different country and get college credit. Experiencing a different culture is enriching and definitely opened my eyes to the differences but also the similarities our cultures have. TEAN made the whole process so easy and then while in Australia were only a phone call away. If I had to do it all over again there is only one thing I would change. Instead of doing a semester I'd do a full year. :)

My study abroad experience was amazing!

September 30, 2014by: Kati - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Sydney, Australia with WorldStrides

5

My trip to Thailand was my favorite 10 days of the semester. Thailand was unbelievable and I felt so safe and cared for going through TEAN. I knew that I was not alone and everyplace I went was safe for me to go to. I felt very comfortable knowing that my group leader had been to Thailand on this trip nine other times. There is nothing about my Thailand trip that I would've changed. It was the most beautiful place I ever have been. I believe that a main reason why I loved studying abroad so much was because of TEAN. TEAN is extremely organized and they’re with you every step of the way. I never felt alone and knew that if I ever needed something TEAN would be there for me. I think this is very different from other programs that friends went on. They were very much on their own, which can be scary being so far away from home. From the moment you sign up until your flight home TEAN is there for you answering any questions you have and providing extremely helpful information and advice. I lived in Bondi Junction in the Meriton Apartments. The location was awesome and the apartment was beautiful. I think the best part about the Meriton was that so many TEAN students lived there. The location was awesome!-- directly on top of the train and bus station and only 10 minutes from the beach and 20 minutes from school. Sydney is such a fun city, there is so much to do and the beaches are incredible. One of my favorite things to do was the coastal walk from Bondi Beach to Coogee Beach. The restaurants in Sydney were all amazing!

Equal amounts of work and play

September 30, 2014by: M. Comer

Program: Study Abroad in Perth, Australia with WorldStrides

5

There are no words to describe a vast country that has been taken care of by the Aboriginal people and a land that has taken care of them. When you reach the overlooks in Kakadu National Park, the amount of life and history you can see in one moment is breathtaking. The Education Abroad Network was the most responsive and the most helpful while I prepared and made my decision studying abroad. They also provided the most amount of travel around Australia for a summer program. Most of the accommodations were safe and welcoming hostels, but we also stayed at the University of New South Wales dorms (almost as large as an apartment) for 2 weeks and camped while in Darwin.

Greatest 5 Months of my Life!

September 29, 2014by: KRichner - New York

Program: Study Abroad in Sydney, Australia with WorldStrides

5

My study abroad experience was amazing! Everything about it was incredible and I only wish I had more time in Australia. Australia has so much to offer and you really get to feel like you live there, rather than just visiting. I saw some of the most beautiful places I could imagine and ate some of the greatest food I have ever had. My experiences in Australia are something I may never have the opportunity to do again. I believe that a main reason why I loved studying abroad so much was because of TEAN. TEAN is extremely organized and they’re with you every step of the way. I never felt alone and knew that if I ever needed something TEAN would be there for me. The TEAN staff are all young and so nice. They have awesome tips and advice on everything-- travel, culture, food, etc. TEAN accommodations were incredible. I lived in Bondi Junction in an apartment with amazing views of the city. TEAN's orientation was so much fun and I learned so much about Sydney during it. TEAN's pre semester trip to Thailand was the best trip I went on while abroad. It was so organized and I felt so safe and cared for going through TEAN. I knew that I was not alone and everyplace I went was safe for me to go to. I felt very comfortable knowing that my group leader had been to Thailand on this trip nine other times.

The trip of a lifetime

September 27, 2014by: Jess H. - Connecticut

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

How to fit the best experience of my life into a simple review? From the second I landed until the very last moment I left, the overarching thought running through my mind was "WOW" - "Wow, I cannot believe I am here and for SCHOOL"; "This is where I get to live?!"; "I have never seen such beauty!" ; "I cannot believe a place so far away from home has become my home"; and ultimately, "Wow, I really, really do not want to leave". So, you can probably gather that this trip swept me right off my feet; but, it wasn't simply because I was in Australia, rather due to the awesome program I went with, TEAN Griffith. From calling me to check in to see how I was doing in preparation for my semester abroad to greeting us at the airport, from cruising around Sydney Harbor and climbing the "Coat Hanger" to guiding us around the breathtakingly gorgeous country of Thailand - I could not have picked a better fitting program for myself. TEAN proved not only extremely competent in getting me to and fro my destinations, but also truly valued making sure I had the best possible Australian experience abroad. TEAN paved the way for cultural integration by providing us with events such as guided walking tours of Sydney and the Gold Coast, a guided Aboriginal Walking Tour, tickets to a Rugby game (a big part of Australian culture), and even the chance to journey to New Zealand or Thailand for spring break. Additionally, as a student who was fortunate enough to live 2 blocks away from the beach, we quickly adapted to the public transportation offered in order to get to school; thus, allowing us to further integrate amongst Australia's society. Lastly, TEAN gave me the opportunity to meet some of the most amazing people abroad, whom I now consider a second family. If you are looking to travel to some of the world's most beautiful beaches yet still be centrally located in relation to Australia's other major cities, to experience how a culture that shares the same language can differ so significantly, to become a member of a global community (because Australia isn't just home to Australians), and to learn more about yourself than you probably ever will in such a short period of time, then TEAN Griffith is the program for you!

A Years' Experience in A TEAN Summer

September 26, 2014by: Megan - Blacksburg, VA

Program: Study Abroad in Perth, Australia with WorldStrides

5

As an individual who had never left the United States before going to Australia, I believe that I chose the most responsible and exciting team who could help me explore. This program allows deep connections to grow and new friendships to form while also taking you on the time of your life, all the way from avoid-the-crocs at all costs Down Under to the don't-blink-or-you'll-miss-a-lifetime Great Barrier Reef. Each day was packed with learning and with spare time, most of the time starting early. Choosing a good study abroad program is crucial, The Education Abroad Network provides simultaneous stability and independence, modern and cultural interactions and more importantly, equal amounts of work and play!

A Brilliant Experience

September 25, 2014by: Vanda Moore

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad with TEAN in Chiang Mai was seriously one of the best decisions I've ever made in my life. The staff were helpful in making sure I got everything together in order to go, and the teachers at the university were very enthusiastic with their subject and made my learning experience very interesting and rewarding. Chiang Mai is a beautiful city filled with beautiful people, culture, and history that I was so happy to be a part of for 6 weeks. During my time there we were given meal allowances, taken on excursions, and coffee dates. They did a really good job at taking care of us students and making us feel as comfortable as possible during our time in Chiang Mai. I would most definitely do this again if I could, and I would recommend it as a great program for anyone who wants to study abroad in Southeast Asia for the summer. Social Life: While there I made friends with the people in my program, all of our Thai roommates, and other people who were travelling around Thailand at the time. I met a lot of people from many countries such as Canada, Ireland, and Zimbabwe; it was really fun to come into contact with so many individuals. Zoe's In Yellow is THE place to be, by the way, if you want to dance, have fun with friends, and meet people. :)

Allowed deep connections to grow

September 25, 2014by: megan

Program: Study Abroad in Perth, Australia with WorldStrides

5

There are no words to describe a vast country that has been taken care of by the Aboriginal people and a land that has taken care of them. When you reach the overlooks in Kakadu National Park, the amount of life and history you can see in one moment is breathtaking The Education Abroad Network was the most responsive and the most helpful while I prepared and made my decision studying abroad. They also provided the most amount of travel around Australia for a summer program. Most of the accommodations were safe and welcoming hostels, but we also stayed at the University of New South Wales dorms (almost as large as an apartment) for 2 weeks and camped while in Darwin.

The Best Semester Of My Life

September 25, 2014by: Jessie Smith

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

I could not have had a better time abroad. I miss being in Australia every single day. The pre-semester trip to Fiji was one of the highlights of the entire trip. It was amazing seeing the cultural differences and getting to meet everyone right away. The orientation in Sydney was also also unreal. There were a bunch of planned things for us to do during this week. We spent a day in the Blue Mountains and wandering all around the beautiful city. Once we made it to our new home, the Gold Coast, we were all exhausted. At the same time, we couldn't be more excited to finally be home. The town and the atmosphere is amazing for college-aged students. There are a million things to do and a bus service that can cheaply take you all over the place. Bond University was amazing. The campus it self is unbelievable, and the classes were all great. None of them were all that hard. There is also an amazing service on campus, student flights, that helped us plan every trip we wanted to go on. This was ridiculously helpful. We were able to go everywhere we wanted as cheaply as possible, without the stresses of planning everything. All in all TEAN could not have been better. I had the best experience of my life and made a whole group of new best friends that I still keep in touch with on a regular basis. I would recommend TEAN to anyone looking to study abroad. I was really nervous about getting to Australia and having no one to go to if I were to have had an issue. That is not the case at all. TEAN staff were very helpful and kept in contact with us during our entire trip. I lived in the Meriton in the Gold Coast. It was absolutely amazing. I cannot say enough great things about our accommodations. The rooms were beautiful and the amenities offered were above and beyond anything I expected. Go to the casino, Jupiters, in the Gold Coast. It is right across from the Meriton where we lived. It is a ton of fun and an awesome thing to do that people under 21 could not do in the USA. Food can get pretty expensive in Australia. We found that if you're going to eat out, breakfast is hands-down the cheapest meal to do so. Most places had 10-dollar 'big brekky' that is delicious and huge. Wake up at 5a.m. and go to the beach for a sunrise as many times as you physically can. It is an amazing experience and it is one of the things I miss most about Australia. Food was possibly the one thing I didn't love about Australia. I think America just has such great food that it is tough to compete. But there weren't many things I ordered or ate that were really really delicious. There is tons, and tons, of stuff for college-aged students to do. The entire Gold Coast is a younger crowd with a million places to go and see. There is way too much to do in 4 months, I could of used another 4. I never once felt unsafe. The area is very friendly and there was never a time my safety was at all in question. The people in Australia are the friendliest people in the world.

Excellent Abroad Experience

September 25, 2014by: kmr317

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

I studied abroad at Bond University in Gold Coast, Australia through the Education Abroad Network. My experience was absolutely life changing. Because I had so much guidance before, during, and after my abroad experience, the Education Abroad Network made it easy for credit transfer and classes from my home university to correspond with my host university. I lived in the Meriton hotel in a beautiful location placed in the heart of Broadbeach. I was a block away from the beach, and in walking distance from major shopping areas, food stores, restaurants and more. Furthermore, my abroad experience was especially unique and memorable because of the pre-semester trip to Fiji. This trip was the first time I got to meet my fellow peers, and it provided me with a special bond that allowed me to form lifelong friendships during my study abroad experience. I firmly believe that my life has been changed by my experience, and I feel that it will continue to have positive influences for the rest of my life. One of my favorite spots that tourists may miss is Coolangatta beach. It is another beautiful beach located in Queensland with beautiful views and delicious cafes along the beach.

Best Semester Of My Life

September 25, 2014by: Brooks Desjardins

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

At first, traveling to the other side of the world seemed crazy to me. Getting on a plane for 14 hours to Australia and immersing myself into a culture for four months was something that I was not comfortable with. With the Help of The Education Abroad Network, it made my transition from America to Australia not only a smooth one, but an extremely enjoyable one as well. Right from the beginning The Education Abroad Network kept me organized from what I should expect and pre departure materials that were necessary for my success with my transition. If I ever had any questions before or along the way, The Education Abroad Network staff was always a phone call or a prompt email response away. Once I got to the airport and was ready to take off I was immediately accompanied by other students who were in my program and would soon become my best friends on the trip. Sitting with other students from all over the country and talking over our worries and excitements definitely made me feel comfortable as I understood that everyone was in the same boat. Once we got to Australia, Staff Members of The Education Abroad Network were extremely knowledgeable and enormously helpful once we stepped of that plane in Sydney, Australia. Staying in five star hotels and having a one week orientation in Sydney where we went rappelling, tours of the Sydney Harbor and other things which made bonding with other students would prove to be the beginning of our journey that changed our lives forever. Traveling to the Gold Coast was one of the most amazing experiences of my life. Again, with the help of The Education Abroad Network in putting us in these stunning five star hotels and living right on the beach, I thought I was in paradise. From there I was more than eager to get my semester underway and see the wonders of the Gold Coast, Australia. It is safe to say that without the help of The Education Abroad Network my experiences would not have been the same. I am so happy that I chose the Education Abroad Network to help me with this very important transition that would prove to be the best experience of my life.

Never felt so at home

September 25, 2014by: Casey

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

The most memorable thing about my study abroad experience was the friends that I made through TEAN. We were like a tight knit family. I chose TEAN because it was the most highly recommended program. It also had everything I was looking for, the school, the convenience, the excitement. I was lucky enough to live off campus in a hotel/ apartment on broadbeach. The location was perfect as well as the accommodations.

One of the best decisions I've ever made in my life.

September 25, 2014by: V. Moore

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

Getting lost with a friend in the Old City at 3 in the morning, but not feeling scared at all because Chiang Mai is really safe, was not only an adventure but also a memorable experience because it made us extremely close. I chose this program because it was beneficial to me in terms of graduation and my own personal desire to learn more about my country and heritage. I lived in a dorm that was located right behind the school gates, on a street that had basically everything a student would need: a general store, a 7-11, restaurants, street food vendors, and inexpensive taxis that could take us into the city centre.

Best Semester Ever

September 25, 2014by: Savannah Cassidy

Program: Study Abroad in Sydney, Australia with WorldStrides

5

I couldn't be happier with my choices about studying abroad- both going to Australia and choosing to do it through The Education Abroad Network. TEAN made everything so easy for me and their staff is amazing. Any questions I had were immediately answered. I participated on the pre-semester trip to the Great Barrier Reef and mid-semester trip to Thailand and really encourage future students to go on them- they were two of the best trips of my life. I had the best 5 months I could have ever asked for and learned so much about Australian culture. I also traveled to New Zealand, Melbourne, and Byron Bay all of which were incredible. It was truly a semester I will never forget and looking back I wouldn't change a thing.

The Magic of Southeast Asia

September 24, 2014by: Lydia Weiant - Columbus

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

Southeast Asia is the perfect destination for a one-of-a-kind study abroad experience! Starting in Thailand you are introduced to the cultures of Southeast Asia; the food, markets, people, places, and customs. We lived in Chiang Mai, the second largest city, located in the mountains of Northern Thailand. You live with a Thai roommate in nice apartment style accommodations. Our roommates became some of our closest friends. The classes are always interesting and incorporate lectures, guest speakers, and field trips to give you the best educational experience possible while overseas. The in country as well as home office staff are wonderful in helping you address any concerns before or during your trip. The program also includes some spectacular excursions to the Southern Thai beaches (famous for being some of the most beautiful beaches in the world!), an elephant sanctuary, and hiking the tallest mountain in Thailand. After 2 months there you transition to Cambodia, an entirely different culture and atmosphere. This switch gives you the full spectrum of Southeast Asia and shows the diversity of the somewhat smaller region. You live in Phnom Penh and study at Pannasastra University with Khmer students. All classes are taught in English though. I loved being immersed in two countries during one semester and I'm glad that I did it through TEAN. I would highly recommend this program to anyone looking for a diverse and unique study abroad experience and who wants to get out of their comfort zone to try something new!

The semester of a lifetime

September 24, 2014by: adweiss - Syracuse

Program: Study Abroad in Sydney, Australia with WorldStrides

5

I can honestly say it was the most remarkable and unforgettable four months of my life. The opportunity TEAN provided me to live in a foreign country and travel is not something everyone has the opportunity to do. The staff in the U.S office were so helpful prior to leaving for my trip. The staff located in Australia were so warm, friendly, and always willing to help. The experience opened my eyes to a world around me that I did not know existed. I lived in Sydney, Australia in the Meriton Apartments located in Bondi Junction. The location was ideal. Australia made me grow as a person and provided me insight to what I want to do in life. The memories created are endless and the friendships formed are one of a kind. Travel breaks the routine that we all tend to fall into while making us grateful at the same time. TEAN provides planned trips with staff members that make planning so simple. I traveled to Cairns and Thailand through TEAN. If I did not utilize those trip opportunities I know my experience would not have been the same. Traveling has become a passion. I traveled to Tasmania during my semester. We hiked down to this beach called Wine Glass Bay. While my friends and I were taking in this breathtaking beach a wild Wallaby with a baby in her pouch hopped along the sand. If that was not amazing enough, behind the wallaby in the water dolphins were swimming in the ocean. It was an experience I will never forget. I chose to go through The Education Abroad Network through peers at my home school. I heard only positive feedback from the program so I applied. I lived in an apartment building that had long stay residents living there. The accommodations were comparable to an upscale hotel.

The perfect decision to make during my college experience.

September 23, 2014by: Marcus Degnan

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

My study abroad experience was something I feel cannot be replicated with any type of institution/program. TEAN provided excellent service that allowed other students and myself a semester of a lifetime. While going to Southeast Asia was intimidating at first, my time there has only opened doors in my willingness to try new things and be adventurous in my life.

Changed My Life

September 23, 2014by: Neal L.

Program: Study Abroad in Brisbane, Australia with WorldStrides

5

The month long Brisbane Festival and on the last night they have a fireworks display called Riverfire. Fireworks are shot from all sides and bends of the river around the city and even off of the tops of office buildings. The weather, location and prestigious rank of the University of Queensland are the reasons on why I chose this program. I lived on the 13th floor of an apartment on Tank Street. There were three bedrooms for three of us and two bathrooms. We also had a very functional kitchen and a large living room which connected to our balcony. Our balcony provided us with a breathtaking view of the Brisbane river. And we had a washer and dryer. The location was great. It was only a 20 minute commute to campus, but a 4 block walk to the heart of the city, Queen Street Mall and a 2 block walk to a major train station.

Saying this trip was worthwhile would be an understatement

September 23, 2014by: Ariel

Program: Study Abroad in Brisbane, Australia with WorldStrides

5

My most memorable experience was traveling by myself during the university's Reading Week along the east coast of Australia. I went down south to Philip's Island to to watch the Penguin Parade and visit the Chocolate Factory; spent a few days being a tourist in Melbourne (and falling in love with "Lord of the Fries", an all-vegetarian restaurant); and spent a day looking at the war monuments and Parliament House in Canberra. I chose my program because I valued the guaranteed housing (which I felt was necessary in country so far away), liked being able to rely on the Resident Advisor, and enjoyed being able to spend a week in Sydney for orientation. I lived in an apartment flat with three other Americans. The apartment was fully furnished (including kitchen with cutlery, a dishwasher, washing machine and dryer, three televisions, and two bathrooms) and had a balcony. The apartment was right across the street from the university, and was close to the bus stop and ferry stop that went into Central Brisbane. The apartment also had good security (the front door and garage door automatically locked), and the landlord was always available and helpful.

Very welcoming and honest

September 23, 2014by: Marcus

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

I had the opportunity to study abroad in both Vietnam and Thailand, so seeing the differences between the two countries as a student was something not offered in most study abroad programs. The Education Abroad Network was very welcoming and honest when it came to any question I asked. Also, as a gay male, they were extremely open in discussing the issues I had going abroad and being out. Again, this is a sentiment I feel unique to this program compared to the others I looked at. In Chiang Mai, Thailand, I lived with a Thai roommate right next to the University. The city was calm, and not far away from an exciting nightlife or scenic nature routes. In Saigon, Vietnam, I lived in an apartment in the center of the large city. The University was a bit farther away, but I had many accommodations within minutes of each other.

Trip of a lifetime!

September 23, 2014by: Nicole - New Hampshire

Program: Study Abroad in Dunedin, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

Dunedin, where the University of Otago is located, is a beautiful, college town perfectly suited for students, including international students. Planning my trip there through TEAN was the best decision I feel as though I could have made. Essentially everything was set up for me, including group flights at a discounted price, transportation from the airport, a graduated Otago student living just down the street from uniflats (our lovely apartments) who was our local go-to person if anything happened or we just needed advice. Aside from all that, the orientation to New Zealand was in Auckland. It was such a fun week, and amazing way to get to know the other students, our new home, and live the city life, if only for a few days. After that, we flew to Fiji together, for the trip of a lifetime, and I mean that! I adored Fiji. It was such a relaxing, fun, warm, eye-opening week. I absolutely loved it, and this is where we all really bonded. When the week was over, and we split ways, we had all made friends, and now places to stay and visit all over New Zealand. The TEAN staff were incredibly helpful, thorough, and happy to answer any questions, throughout the entire experience. Also, the housing assignments were excellent. I believe uniflats and TEAN worked together so well to place people. My flat co-existed very well together, and my kiwi host was awesome! He was just as excited to show us around, as we were to be there. He had a car, and for mid-semester break, we did a "south island tour" camping and splitting the gas money. Long story short, my experience (that I was unsure about when leaving the states) was so much better than I could have ever imagined. TEAN made it easy, and I'm so grateful I went through their program.

The chance of a lifetime

September 23, 2014by: Casey Hutton - Kingston

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

I have never felt so at home millions of miles from my friends and family. My study abroad experience was the most unforgettable thing I think I will do in my lifetime. How often do you get to live in Australia in an apartment on the beach for four months. That opportunity doesn't come around everyday, but with TEAN it was all possible. They made me feel like I was at home, the friends I met from my program were the friends I had throughout the semester. The TEAN orientation in Sydney was unreal. They perfectly immersed you into Aussie culture in a little under four days. Everything we needed to know they taught us, while doing fun activities. I wouldn't have gone with any other program,

The right choice is TEAN!

September 22, 2014by: Joforsgren - Tampa

Program: Study Abroad in Shanghai, China with WorldStrides

5

I believe that everyone who has the opportunity to study abroad in college should. Studying in a foreign country will likely give you a new perspective on many things. Immersing yourself in a new culture and language, visiting historical sites, meeting people from all over the world, and experiencing trips you could have only dreamed of are just some of the perks of studying abroad. Although I didn't think getting settled in China was too difficult I know it would have been nearly impossible without the help and support from TEAN. From helping us enroll in all our classes, to organizing amazing trips and excursions, conducting a 5 day long orientation to familiarize us all with Shanghai, to helping us overcome language barriers, the TEAN crew was always there for us. If you are looking for a program where you will make life long friends and go on some great adventures (climb the great wall or ride camels in inner mongolia) then TEAN is definitely the program for you!

Why Did It Have to End?

September 22, 2014by: Ariel - College Park, MD

Program: Study Abroad in Brisbane, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Going to Australia has probably been one of the best experiences of my life. From learning a new culture firsthand; understanding science, nutrition, and government policy with an Australian perspective; and learning the high's and low's of becoming a certified barista, I never in my life thought I would have this knowledge of a country and lifestyle on the other side of the world. I made friends there, international friends from Italy and Asia, and even Americans who live close to me (and one who even goes to my school!) Being in Australia also gave me an insight about what makes America so unique and special, as well as solutions to some of the problems we have here because of the insight from outsiders. Saying this trip was worthwhile would be an understatement.

Life changing!

September 19, 2014by: Amandine

Program: Study Abroad in Shanghai, China with WorldStrides

5

My most memorable experience was when we traveled to Inner Mongolia. It was nothing like I have ever experienced before. We took jeep through the desert to arrive to a Muslim camp where we slept in yurts and enjoyed very typical meals. I chose this program because it offered a semester in one of the top university in the world for political science. Besides, it includes trips along the semester, which was very practical because I did not have to plan travels myself like other students had to. Finally, TEAN takes care of everything, from health insurance, to housing, to phone service etc...which is super relaxing and convenient! I lived in an apartment a few minutes away from campus, wallmart and a mall. It's in a residential building with lot of Chinese families. It was situated in a western like street, and just 5 minutes away from a very Chinese streets with many restaurants. We had a nice terrace and a rooftop, as well as a trendy living room.

A life changing experience!

September 15, 2014by: Amandine

Program: Study Abroad in Shanghai, China with WorldStrides

5

I honestly believe that this semester abroad was the best decision I have ever met in my life. Discovering Asian culture was so different from everything I have ever seen before. Living among locals, and studying with fellow Chinese and international students really added to my personal as well as academical and professional experience. TEAN did a great job planning my semester, which was very relaxing because otherwise it would have been a lot of work. The price of the program compared to everything it offers is definitely a great deals. More particularly, the discovery trips offered throughout the semester were amazing!

A life changing experience

September 15, 2014by: Amandine - New York

Program: Study Abroad in Shanghai, China with WorldStrides

5

Doing this semester in China was really one of the most amazing thing I have done in my life! I am glad I chose the TEAN program because it really suited to what I wanted: a program that would plan everything for me, offer comprehensive assistance, and help me travel with other students! China is a very interesting country, and Asian culture in general is fascinating. Shanghai is very cosmopolitan and I loved meeting such an international and Chinese crowd! Shanghai offers lot of very different cultural experiences. You can discover them during the orientation organized by TEAN upon arrival The campus is very beautiful and the classes really interesting. They can be quite challenging but you really get an insight into Asian cultures, and share experiences with local professors and students. The housing offered by TEAN is ideal, situated a few minutes away from campus, restaurants, grocery stores, and shopping mall. You have a nice terrace and rooftop for warmer days. You get to live with other international students and a Chinese roommate! She became a very great friend, and would always helped us traveling around. TEAN also offered highlights trips all around China which were amazing. They would organize everything and everytime you would see everything that was needed to see in every location. I think it is what I preferred about the program. Every student on campus travels outside of Shanghai, but it can sometimes be hard to know where to go, how, and what to see. TEAN takes charge of everything for you. All in all I loved my experience abroad and would definitely do it all over again. I kept contact with my local friends and roommates, and even the TEAN staff which was so nice to us!

Study Abroad

September 12, 2014by: Jake Meyers

Program: Study Abroad in Madrid, Spain with WorldStrides

5

I love studying abroad!

excellent!

September 12, 2014by: RLevin

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Moreton Island was the most memorable experience. Right off the coast of Brisbane, Moreton Island is completely made of sand. No roads. We camped, hiked, sand boarded, and snorkeled an amazing shipwreck. Bond University has a travel agent on campus that makes planning trips such as this one extremely easy and affordable as well. I chose to use TEAN as my program because they sounded the most appealing. The pre-semester excursion planned in Sydney was absolutely amazing and helped me bond with the people in my program. TEAN also made the process of applying, choosing courses and packing extremely easy. Very minimal stress involved with my choice. I lived in the on-campus housing dorms. They were amazing!! The nicest dorms I've ever lived in. I loved the convenience of them; right near class, short walk into town and I got a meal plan so no stress of cooking. There is a bus stop right near the accommodations so it was very easy to get to an airport or the beach!

Madrid!

September 11, 2014by: Alex Stefanko

Program: Study Abroad in Madrid, Spain with WorldStrides

4

I love Madrid!

So much fun!

September 11, 2014by: shanghaikellybell

Program: Study Abroad in Shanghai, China with WorldStrides

5

I had an internship where I taught 3rd grade migrant kids English. Seeing their excited little faces every Friday was so much fun! I wanted a program that my university was familiar with- and my advisor said that many students in the past had a fantastic experience with TEAN. They were right! The TEAN apartments are really comfortable. They're western-style, and have a good amount of space. The location was on a unique, modern street very close to the university gate.

Couldn't have asked for more

September 11, 2014by: Savannah

Program: Study Abroad in Sydney, Australia with WorldStrides

5

My memorable experience was Traveling to Thailand and New Zealand. I chose this program Because the website was clear and organized. I had heard amazing things about the program, and my questions and concerns were immediately answered when I contacted them. I couldn't have asked for better location of housing (I was in Bondi Junction in the Meriton) because I was in between the beach and the city, and right above a train/bus station.

Forever Chiang Mai

September 11, 2014by: c14des

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

My most memorable experience was having my 21st birthday at a beach resort in the south of Thailand. Sun, sand, island boat tours and lots of fun. I wanted to go somewhere that was different than what I am used to in aspects of culture but I also wanted somewhere that the shock wouldn't be too much, seeing as this was my first time traveling abroad. The apartment I stayed in was safe, close to school, modern, clean and just overall very nice. I loved living with a Thai roommate. It was a very nice setup for an easy transition.

Outside your Comfort Zone

September 07, 2014by: Jordan goes to Jordan - Athens
5

When most people start to talk about their experience studying abroad, they talk about how it changed their life. So if you are considering study abroad, you have already heard it a million times. So I will be cliché for a few minutes. Studying abroad was the most daring, exciting, scary, and worthwhile decision I have ever made. Daring that I chose to move to a completely unique and different country for five weeks without knowing a single soul on the entire continent. Exciting because this would be the chance to gain a new perspective on an unfamiliar culture and truly find myself. Scary because of the comments from friends and family that I was receiving about how dangerous and confrontational Jordanians, and even all Middle Easterners are. By the way, all of the negative feedback I got about choosing to go to Jordan were all very wrong. And finally, worthwhile because my entire experience gave me the change to find out who I really am. So now that I am done being cliché, the idea of studying abroad to a perspective student always sounds exciting and intimidating. I found this quote while looking into ISA as possible program to go to Jordan with, and I think it helps to put studying abroad into more perspective. “I always wonder why birds choose to stay in the same place when they can fly anywhere on earth, then I ask myself the same question” (Harun Yahya). This quote helped me finalize my decision, and I hope that it will also help other students as well. The world can be viewed as a very large place with many different people living on it. But traveling abroad helps a person realize that we are all equal and that experiencing other culture is very beneficial. It teaches us not to be as close minded and to be open to people who seem to be different than us. Overall, I found myself in Jordan. I hope that by reading this, it gives you the courage to try something new and go outside your comfort zone to experience something that will help you find yourself.

The Experience of a Lifetime

September 07, 2014by: Rachel Levin

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

TEAN did an excellent job of planning excellent events and excursions, keeping organization among a large group of people, and making the entire process very easy. I fell in love with Australia and the Gold Coast. I got to travel around the country, go to Fiji and take a 6-day vacation to Bali!!! I checked all the activities off my list such as sky diving, scuba diving and holding a koala bear. I can't wait to go back to Australia and visit other places that I did not get to see. Living Situation: Loved living in the on-campus dorms. The nicest dorms I've ever lived in. Nice and convenient, close to class and the meal plan made life less stressful abroad! Cultural Immersion: I made friends that I continue to talk to every single day at home.

Take Me Back to the Land Down Under!!!!!

September 07, 2014by: Rachel Levin - College Park, MD

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Choosing to study abroad in Australia at Bond Uni through TEAN was the absolute best decision I could have ever made. TEAN made it beyond easy to travel to the other side of the world. The process felt personalized and organized. The excursions that TEAN planned were AMAZING. The pre-semester orientation program in Sydney allowed me to see more of the beautiful city than I ever expected in four days. It also helped me easily adapt to the new country as well as make a boat load of friends. Bond Uni, the school that I took four classes at, was absolutely beautiful and in the perfect location. I was able to travel to different parts of Aussie as well as Bali and Fiji! I made local friends that I still talk to every single day at home. I can't wait for the time that I go back to the beautiful country and continue to travel to some of the places that I missed. I 100% recommend this program, this school and this country!!

TEAN is what you're looking for.

September 06, 2014by: shanghaikellybell

Program: Study Abroad in Shanghai, China with WorldStrides

5

I truly think that every student should study abroad sometime during their undergrad. Tackling a new language, experiencing a new culture, seeing famous & historical sites, meeting friends from far away places, and tasting difference cuisines while traveling become your favorite memories. It takes you out of your comfort zone and makes every day an adventure. TEAN was the perfect choice for me- having their support, especially in a country as distant as China, was essential to making the process smooth and carefree. Also, the excursions they include in the package are awesome and would be incredibly difficult to pull off by yourself. For anyone looking to study in China, TEAN in Shanghai is definitely the way to go.

The Magic of Southeast Asia

September 05, 2014by: Lydia Weiant

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

My most memorable moments are from my TEAN excursion to Siem Reap, the location of the famous Angkor Wat temple. The trip was a splendid conclusion to my time in Cambodia and included some of the most delicious food I had overseas as well as days of exploring ruins and meandering through the busy markets and streets of Siem Reap. I had always wanted to go to Cambodia, but I was taking Thai at my home university and needed a program to meet my language requirement. This program was the perfect fit for me allowing me to continue my Thai language studies while being able to spend time and immerse myself in Cambodia as well. While in Thailand our accommodations were in a student dorm/apartment complex in which we each had a Thai roommate. The rooms were spacious with a private bathroom, two small and fairly enclosed bedrooms, and a small living space with a fridge, sofa, and television. The complex was very clean and comfortable and also had a workout room, study rooms, wifi, and other valuable amenities. In Cambodia I elected to stay at a guesthouse for the duration of my visit. I had my own room and bathroom that were very comfortable, clean, and provided all the resources I needed.

Chiang Mai Forever

September 04, 2014by: c14des

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

Chiang Mai is an amazing place to be. The people are so friendly, the food is sooo good and there is so much to do. TEAN's academic aspect is great. the work is not difficult, but it really helps you to understand this new and different place that you are in. Living with Thai roommates is so rewarding. I had so many amazing times with the friends I've made that I will remember forever. Everyone in the program is so helpful. They are always there to answer questions, to sit down and chat and to teach you new things. If I had to do it again, I would repeat exactly what I have done.

TEAN had everything I wanted out of a study abroad program

September 04, 2014by: Shwidock

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

I seriously don't even know how to choose because every experience I had there was amazing but if I had to narrow it down I'd say Pai. One thing to understand about where Chiang Mai is is it's in the heart of northern Thailand. Therefore, traveling to other places is sometimes difficult. We usually had to take an overnight bus from Chiang Mai to Bangkok and from there fly or take a bus to wherever our destination was. But when you have the constraints of class to hold you down, it gets tough to leave. That is why Pai is the greatest hidden gem of northern Thailand. About 3-4 hours north of Chiang Mai, Pai is a little hippy town where laying in a hammock all day overlooking rice fields while exchanging stories with people from all over the world is absolutely the norm. Previous to this experience, I assumed, like most westerners, that after graduating college the only thing to do was to get a job. But suddenly, I was surrounded by people from vastly different countries all telling me that there is more to life than just that. That it is perfectly fine to want to travel and see the world instead. That a 9-5 job isn't the only future. I'm graduating in the spring and since that day in Pai I've viewed my future in a whole new light. And on top of all of that, Pai is seriously some of the most fun you'll ever have. TEAN had everything I wanted out of a study abroad program. I loved the idea of living with a Thai roommate because I wanted to be able to immerse myself in the culture as much as possible. I loved that we got to spend a week in rural village, seeing and first hand experiencing the way another culture truly lives. TEAN provided us with ample volunteer opportunities which we all took advantage of. I volunteered at The Burma Study Center photographing Burmese refugees while a friend in my program interviewed them about their lives and experiences migrating from Burma. It was an unbelievable experience, one that I think about often and am so grateful that TEAN provided us with the tools to give back. I loved that TEAN had on the ground staff to help us if we needed anything and arranged awesome excursions for us for no extra cost! (We went to Krabi, which is a beautiful island in the south of Thailand and hiked Doi Inthanon). All in all, I think TEAN is an amazing program that offers not only support but makes sure that your study abroad experience is one for the books! TEAN provided us with housing in Uniloft, a dorm/apartment style building complex about a mile or so from the University. The rooms are set up so that you and your roommate have separate bedrooms but share a communal living room and bathroom. Uniloft has a gym, a pool, laundry services, cleaning services and round the clock security. There's a common study room where everyone hangs out to do work, watch movies and chat. It's not too far from the center of the city but far enough that you don't see many westerners around, which I loved. The neighborhood is full of awesome hole in the wall restaurants with the sweetest people working in them.

Chiang Mai Forever

September 04, 2014by: Candace - New York

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

Chiang Mai is such an amazing place to be. It has enough within it to satisfy any and all food/bar/social needs but is also not too big where it becomes unmanageable. I ate incredible food, saw some breathtaking mountains and temples and made life long friends and memories. The academics helped me to understand more about the country I was living in and the administrators in my program were always available, friendly and helpful. I lived with a thai roommate which was an amazingly enriching experience and it caused me to make some great friends within the group of thai roommates as well as help to broaden my way of thinking. I honestly loved every moment in Thailand, it was such an amazing adventure and a truly life changing experience.

The Most Epic 5 Months Ever.

September 04, 2014by: Zoe Shwidock

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

My heart seriously aches to be back in Chiang Mai. Every day I think about the amazing experiences I had, the fabulous people I met and the way my life is forever changed for the better. Previous to boarding the plane to Thailand, I had never been to Asia before. Honestly, I had no idea what I was getting myself into. Little did I know that Chiang Mai would steal my heart. Studying abroad in a "developing country" teaches you how to go with the flow, let go of westernized ideals and enjoy simplicity. The landscapes are arguably the most beautiful I've ever seen. Ancient temples line the streets next to restaurants and stores. At the right time of year, the rice fields are the greenest greens you'll ever see. I met the most amazing and fascinating people from all over the world, whose perspectives on life shaped the way I now view the world. Through TEAN, we got to spend a week in a rural village in northern Thailand called Baan Ton Chok, which was truly life changing. It was only our second week there so we hadn't learned much Thai and lacked any form of communication except hand signals. Nevertheless, by the last night, we were dancing and singing around a fire with our host families, crying about leaving in the morning. That experience not only taught me to appreciate all that I have but to see that you don't need much to lead a happy and healthy life. Not only did I study abroad in Thailand, I traveled to Vietnam, Cambodia and Indonesia (and Laos for one hour!). I learned, contrary to popular western belief, each Asian culture is starkly different. They each speak different languages, use different currencies, have different traditions. But the one thing I found consistent through them all is how kind, generous and funny they all were. The transition of returning stateside has been 100 times harder than getting accustomed in Asia. Every day I'm researching and planning ways I can permanently move my life over there. There's a magical energy throughout that part of the world. If there is any advice I can give, it would be to break out of your comfort zone and go for it. You won't regret it!

The Magic of Southeast Asia

September 03, 2014by: Lydia Weiant

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

Overall The Education Abroad Network is a phenomenal program and I would recommend it to any student interested in studying in Southeast Asia. The staff both in country and out are helpful and always on call should you run into any problems. I felt well prepared before my trip and well supported during my time overseas. Not to mention the students on the trip came from all over the US and some internationally making my time in Southeast Asia enlightening, enjoyable, and as comfortable as possible in a foreign country. Academics: The professors that you work with in both Thailand and Cambodia are phenomenal! The classes are interesting and highly relevant when it comes to learning as much as possible about your host country. They are also very fun and incorporate numerous field trips and guest speakers. Living Situation: The dorms in Thailand are comfortable and highly convenient featuring a laundromat, seven-eleven, ATMs, and a pool! TEAN also arranges for you to have a Thai roommates, which in many cases turned out to be our close friends and wonderful resources while living in our new city. Cultural Immersion: Between the Thai cooking class and week long village stay, TEAN made sure to introduce you to all aspects of Thai culture. Then, while in Cambodia, we were able to take classes with local students who introduced us to Phnom Penh.

Best Semester Ever!

September 03, 2014by: Savannah Cassidy - Cos Cob

Program: Study Abroad in Sydney, Australia with WorldStrides

5

I couldn't be happier with my choices about studying abroad- both going to Australia and choosing to do it through The Education Abroad Network. TEAN made everything so easy for me and their staff is amazing. I participated on the pre-semester trip to the Great Barrier Reef and mid-semester trip to Thailand and really encourage future students to go on them- they were two of the best trips of my life. I had the best 5 months I could have ever asked for and learned so much about Australian culture. I also traveled to New Zealand, Melbourne, and Byron Bay all of which were incredible. I couldn't have asked for better location of housing (I was in Bondi Junction in the Meriton) because I was in between the beach and the city, and right above a train/bus station. It was truly a semester I will never forget and looking back I wouldn't change a thing.

Take me back!

September 02, 2014by: johannaforsgren

Program: Study Abroad in Shanghai, China with WorldStrides

5

The two semester excursions organized by TEAN- one to the great wall and the other to inner Mongolia- were absolutely amazing. The sunrise hike that we did on the jinshanling section of the great wall was breathtaking, as was sand sledding and camel riding in the dessert in inner Mongolia. These are two things that I could never have imagined doing, and am so grateful that I got to experience two such different yet incredible things during my semester abroad. TEAN offered all aspects that I was looking for in a study abroad program; they gave me flexibility in choosing my own classes, the option to live in an apartment, included semester excursions, a local Chinese roommate, and much more. I couldn't be more satisfied in my choice to study abroad with them. I lived in an off campus apartment about 10 minutes walking distance from Fudan's campus. The apartment was in a great location on a fun, friendly street with lots of restaurants, boutiques, and bars. The apartment was well furnished and spacious.

Take me back!

August 31, 2014by: johannaforsgren

Program: Study Abroad in Shanghai, China with WorldStrides

5

My semester in Shanghai is one that I will never forget. I met some friends for life, learned about a new culture, ate some very strange things, traveled to some places I never could have imagined, and all thanks to The Education Abroad Network. TEAN was there every step of the way, always providing support and organizing fun events. From Chinese painting classes, to volunteer work, to program dinners, and China excursions, there was always something fun to look forward to. Program Administration: The program directors and resident directors were incredibly helpful and approachable throughout the entire study abroad process. The TEAN team is so friendly and they are all willing to help in all situations. My resident director assisted me in everything from translating random information, to helping me book plane tickets, to helping me find tutoring jobs and internships. Health and Safety: I have never felt more safe in a big city than I have in Shanghai. Maybe its that Chinese aren't really violent by nature, but I never felt threatened or uncomfortable walking by myself in Shanghai. Social Life: From the student bars such as Helen's or Perry's to the fancier Bund options such as Bar rouge or the Vue; The M clubs (MINT, M18, M2, Muse, etc) the bar streets, the 5000+ restaurants. There is always something going on in Shanghai.

Loved everything about it

August 20, 2014by: MandyT5 - New York

Program: Study Abroad in Florence, Italy with WorldStrides

5

ISA was a great program. Very nice and welcoming staff. Loved the two trips I went on with them. Had great housing and wonderful roommates who I still stay in contact with. Wish I was still in college so I could study abroad more!

Best Experience of My Life

August 07, 2014by: Kaitlyn Campbell - Aiken

Program: Study Abroad in Chile with WorldStrides

5

I can only say good things about this country, these cities, and this program. I had the time of my life getting to know some of the most amazing people, learning and improving on my favorite language, and coming to appreciate the world around me even more. ISA did a fantastic job of getting us ready, getting us there and settled in, and helping us with any needs or concerns the entire time. I was placed with an amazing family, with whom I am still in touch, and my only regret is my own lack of pushing myself to get out and meet new people. The people, both of ISA and of Chile, are wonderful, and you cannot choose a better place to learn or improve your Spanish and see the world.

Spectacular

August 06, 2014by: MandyLeeT - New York

Program: Study Abroad in Florence, Italy with WorldStrides

5

I had an amazing time. Loved everything about my experience, so much I want to move back and work for a tour guide company or study abroad company! I just traveled around Italy and thought it was magnificent but there is so much more of Europe I want to see. ISA made me love my experience so much that I want to go back as soon as possible.

Seriously Understaffed

August 05, 2014by: J.
3

Top three best things about ISA Jordan: 1. Mohammad 2. Mohammad 3. Mohammad Seriously, whatever ISA is paying their program director in Amman is not enough. To be fair, there are other great teachers with ISA. Balques, Hind, Levi, and Beth are all excellent professors and people. However, ISA really needs to work on hiring more support staff for the director. His assistants didn't seem to do very much (plus they never warmed up to us and it was really hard to ask them questions). After one assistant quit and one professor had a medical emergency, both mid-semester, that left three ISA staff members in Amman to teach ten kids and handle administrative details for another ten. Class has been canceled a lot due to unforeseen circumstances and the fact that everyone is overworked. There are no extracurricular program offered by ISA and (again because there's almost no staff) it's extremely difficult to get help to set up your own arrangements. Therefore it's hard to meet locals and have a true cultural experience - we ISA kids just hung out together pretty much the whole time. I can't fathom why this program cost as much as it did. ISA Austin is INCREDIBLY cheap and also imposed a lot of bogus rules that detracted from the experience. Overall recommendation: find another program, there are plenty.

A great place to live and learn

August 05, 2014by: Costa Rica Chica - Louisville

Program: Study Abroad in San Jose, Costa Rica with WorldStrides

5

If you're a an adventure seeker, Costa Rica is a great place to Study Abroad. ISA offers many excursions to Costa Rica's beaches, cities and neighboring countries. Play with monkeys, see incredible sunsets and learn what Pura Vida is all about.

Magical Sevilla, with the help of ISA

August 04, 2014by: Austin Edwards - Omaha

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

5

ISA Sevilla was a perfect program. From the initial questions about studying abroad, to the pickup from the airport, and the duration of my time in Seville, ISA staff was friendly and helpful. There wasn't a time where I didn't think I was getting my money's worth. The planned excursions were well organized and city events were interesting and applicable to the culture of the city. ISA truly helped make my whole experience of studying abroad wonderful.

The Best Adventure

August 03, 2014by: Carlos Harris - Nashville

Program: Study Abroad in San Jose, Costa Rica with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad in Heredia was the best adventure thus far of my life. I did not know signing up that I would soon experience and meet the most influential people of my life. The staff could not have been better nor could the host families. I miss Heredia everyday and dream of returning. The school (LaU) had all the amenities any student could ask for. The teaching staff was very helpful and knowledgeable. The weekend excursions only made us students want to get out and explore the rest of the country. The excursions were very diverse. I would have stayed a full year if my studies allowed.

Amazing, Great, Life-changing, Eye-opening, Maturing

July 31, 2014by: Alexander Boyd - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Rome, Italy with WorldStrides

4

When our class visited the Trevi fountain, threw in coins, and went on to tour the rest of Rome. Really, it was all so great, I can't pick a single favorite thing. I chose this program because it was a convenient, relatively inexpensive way to complete my Humanities requirement while at the same time having the experience of life abroad.

Spanish Summer

July 30, 2014by: LucyJo

Program: Study Abroad in Valencia, Spain with WorldStrides

5

I spent a summer in Valencia with ISA and loved it! I would recommend it to anyone. The program directors were very organized and always willing to help. I really enjoyed all the extra programming they offered. The classes were great too! I enjoyed learning about the culture that I was living in.

A time I will treasure forever...

July 30, 2014by: Marianna Le Donne - Glassboro

Program: Study Abroad in Rome, Italy with WorldStrides

5

I cannot say enough wonderful things about my experience abroad and the team at ISA that made my trip so memorable. From beginning to end, I felt like they were my family, and was heartbroken when it was time to head home. The excursions, tours and cooking classes alone have left me with fond memories and stories to tell for the rest of my life! I was with such a great group of folks, that my homesickness went away so fast, and now I have a permanent case of Romesickness. Whether you can go abroad for a month, a semester or a whole year, GO. Try it. You won't regret it.

Paris of the South

July 28, 2014by: Angela Chu - Shawnee

Program: Study Abroad in Buenos Aires, Argentina with WorldStrides

5

My study abroad in Buenos Aires with ISA made me excited to encourage other students to study abroad when I came back. Nothing about BsAs was "Americanized" so I got to truly experience a completely new culture. BsAs in the day is full of museums, dance classes, artesian shopping, and art while the night is completely lit up in city lights with music filling the street from late night dining and clubs. Through my classes, getting around the city, and amazing home stay mom, my Spanish improved quickly and dramatically - which was my main goal for studying abroad.

To Sevilla and Back

July 24, 2014by: KoreyAnne Smith - Pittsburgh

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

5

Overall, the ISA made my experience 100% better. They have a wonderful group of people working for them in Sevilla. The staff at the ISA was always interested in hearing about your day or to just listen to you when you needed to vent about a situation. Hands down, one of the best decisions that I have made (city and program!).

Truly Unforgettable Experience

July 23, 2014by: Tyler Quinn Cooksey - Washington, D.C.

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

5

I could not have had a better or more thought evoking experience than I had in Sevilla! I learned so much about Spain, different cultures, and myself. The memories I have gained from this opportunity will be held onto and reflected on for years to come. This program has my highest recommendation!

Bellisimo

July 22, 2014by: J.last - Portland

Program: Study Abroad in Rome, Italy with WorldStrides

5

ISA was a fantastic company to study with. They were so organized and professional. I had a wonderful experience and really felt as if I was a part of Italian culture. Studying abroad was my favorite college memory and ISA made it possible for me to both learn and live in Italy, but also to travel around the country, and to expose me to many art/historical features that I wouldn't have experienced otherwise.

Semester in Roma

July 16, 2014by: meredithwatts - Athens, Georgia

Program: Study Abroad in Rome, Italy with WorldStrides

5

I started looking into programs outside of the University of Georgia sponsored study abroad trips because I wanted to meet other students from different schools and have more freedom for travelling on the weekends, rather than a planned itinerary. I settled on ISA because it offered a wide range of cities and classes, which were all transferable to the University of Georgia. The staff at ISA was really helpful through the entire process, including setting up housing and also providing some group excursions to different cities in Italy.

Best Semester of my Life!

July 15, 2014by: Siena! - Amherst

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

5

Everything you're looking for in a study abroad company.. ISA has! From the price, to included excursions and especially the staff- ISA is the best hands down. The on-site staff in Sevilla were absolutely amazing, they were helpful, fun, and just great people all around! Sevilla is the most beautiful city in the world and there is everything a student needs in order to have the best study abroad experience. From the bars and clubs, to the food, the locals, everything is new and exciting! There are always new streets to get lost in and different experiences every night in the city! I recommend studying in Sevilla whole heartedly with ISA!

More than I could have asked for

July 15, 2014by: Barcelonaonmymind - Cincinnati

Program: Study Abroad in Barcelona, Spain with WorldStrides

5

This program was overall excellent, the ISA staff was helpful before, during, and after my time abroad. I was situated in a safe, fun neighborhood right next to a metro stop with great girls that shared a lot of interests with me. The weekly emails from ISA about cultural activities were always fun and gave us ideas of things to see and do. I felt very prepared after the advice from ISA and orientation and if there was ever a problem the staff were extremely nice and supportive. Classes were interesting and diverse and school was not hard to find. Overall, this was a great program and I would not change anything!

Florence is a vineyard, olive grove, truffle forest

July 14, 2014by: Sarah Dufresne - Millbury, MA

Program: Study Abroad in Florence, Italy with WorldStrides

5

MY experience in Florence Italy was unremarkable. I speak about and refer to experiences I shared there as if it were only yesterday. The cultural immersion that was provided by my program was the best opportunity to truly live at a florentine. I was heavily involved in a sustainable agriculture program within my studies and was able to travel much of the farmland, vineyards and agriculture of Italy. My program also allowed me to do my own independent research with Italy and discover on my own with support of my local community. I would highly recommend this study abroad program and will travel back to Italy with the treasured memories every time! I could not have asked for a better experience abroad, every student should participate in this opportunity!

An Epic Middle-Earth Adventure!

May 17, 2014by: Bradley Miner - Pennsylvania

Program: Study Abroad in Wellington, New Zealand - Massey University

5

TEAN was amazing! Both their state-side and in-country staff were extremely helpful and very kind. My semester abroad in New Zealand started off with a bang as TEAN offered a pre-semester trip to Fiji. The way that TEAN creates a group dynamic is incredible and before I knew it, everyone in my program became a lifelong friend. TEAN provided an incredible orientation session at the beginning of the semester and they even offered several excursions and group meet-ups throughout the semester. TEAN helped me make the most of my study abroad experience in New Zealand and I can honestly say that my entire experience would not have been anywhere near as exciting without them.

The best 4 months

March 25, 2014by: Sievers

Program: Study Abroad in Auckland, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

Orientation in Sydney that was provided by TEAN was the best way to see Australia on a guided tour. It was extremely laid back, but full of awesome events that I would not have been able to get to or know of it I were touring the city alone. I heard about TEAN from many of my friends that had previously gone to Australia through them. My friends reassured me that TEAN was the best program out of all the competitors, and they were right! I lived on campus with a roomate at Bond University. I absolutlely loved living on campus because I was able to meet many people effortlessly. It helped me expand my friend groups to not just the TEAN program.

The best 4 months of my life

March 21, 2014by: Sievers

Program: Study Abroad in Auckland, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

Hands down the Education Abroad Network is the best study abroad program to work with. My experience would not have gone so smoothly if it were not for the many dedicated individuals that are apart of this program. Anything from free excursions, coffee breaks and pre or post abroad trips make TEAN so unique.

My life's best semester ever!

March 18, 2014by: TravelBug

Program: Study Abroad in Newcastle, Australia with WorldStrides

5

My most memorable experience was waking up in the early hours of the morning to meet me two Australian friends that I met at Uni. We would take walks for miles down the different Newcastle beaches. Sometimes we would go for a swim in the ocean baths or they would give me a surfing lesson. The experiences I shared with my native Aussie friends helped me to understand their culture, while I even taught them about my native culture. This was my favourite way to begin my mornings. I chose TEAN because I knew they would have my back every step of the way. Before, during, and after my experience in Australia TEAN has kept close ties with me. Pre-departure to Australia I think I called TEAN's Chicago office once a day to ask them any question I could possibly think of. During my abroad experience TEAN had housing representatives in New South Wales to move us into our new house and Uni. Throughout the semester they would take us out to cultural events and meals to make sure we were enjoying our experience. TEAN is what made my experience abroad the best semester of my life because they organized trips throughout the semester like (Thailand, New Zealand, Melbourne, Sydney, and Cairns) that were packed with the best activities. Also, the other TEAN students I met are still my best friends today. My housing was what made TEAN's Newcastle Uni program stand out from the others. I lived in a big boarding house with 25 native Australian students, 3 other TEAN students, and 1 Chineese student. Samdon house was located close to the public transportation system so I could take the train to Sydney or take a bus to Uni. I was a short walk to the shops and a 10 minute bike ride from the beach. It was a great location and opportunity to truly indulge in the Aussie culture.

Thanks for the Experience

March 18, 2014by: Nneka

Program: Study Abroad in Wellington, New Zealand

5

There are so many memories to choose from, but I will pick the moment when I spent a day with one of my Kiwi friends in Wellington. We walked along Cuba Street, and there was a band that played songs from "I Like to Move It" from Madagascar and the Fresh Prince of Bel-Air theme song! She showed me the Waterfront for the first time, and I laughed at how she would run away when a bird came near her! She is one of my closest friends now, and we keep in touch through Facebook and Skype! My mind was already made up about traveling to New Zealand, but I chose TEAN for several reasons. The main thing was affordability, which included an orientation to Fiji. TEAN also had a booth at my school, and Kate Hilby was their Rep. Speaking with her about her experience in Australia and TEAN in general made me excited to choose them. Past TEAN reviews encouraged me to travel because of their availability and activities while overseas.

Wollongong 2013

March 18, 2014by: Matt

Program: Study Abroad in Perth, Australia with WorldStrides

5

The Cairns trip was the most memorable experience of the trip. Each day we had a new activity which brought the group closer together. The week was full of high adrenaline activities and non-stop excitement. I chose TEAN because they were highly recommended and provided lots of help along the way, while including a comprehensive and immerse program. I lived in Campus East housing at the University. The accommodations vary significantly throughout all University housing. Every area has its pros and cons, but overall the housing is quite good.

Above and Beyond

March 18, 2014by: Sarah Dunsing

Program: Study Abroad in Wellington, New Zealand

5

My most memorable experience with TEAN was the pre-semester excursion to Fiji. They brought us 30 New Zealand students to Fiji before orientation and it allowed us all to get to know each other and begin to step out of our comfort zone. We also got to engage in cultural activities such as rugby, spear throwing, cultural dance, and also a visit to the local village. We were able to go snorkeling and kayaking whenever we pleased, or just relax on the hammock if we wanted to. All of us students got to know each other very well and made an effort to visit each other throughout the semester. I chose TEAN because I heard amazing things about them. My school thought they were cooperative and easy for the students handle. I also had my heart set on New Zealand, and they are one of the few that offers this opportunity. I lived in a flat along a terrace right down the street from the university and bus stop to the city. It housed four girls including myself, and we each got our own rooms, while we shared a lounge, kitchen, bathroom, and laundry facilities. Our entire street was filled with abroad students, which made for an exciting atmosphere. The city was a ten minute walk away and the bus was also a well-organized system of transportation. I could not have asked for a better living situation.

Take me back!

March 18, 2014by: Misayo

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

I think my most memorable experience was the village homestay. Each of us was paired with another member of our program and a family from the village. They set up rooms for us to share and we spent every day with these incredible people. There was obviously a language barrier between us, but they treated us like family and it was an amazing opportunity to communicate and share with people from an entirely different culture. I will never forget driving away with the care package from my homestay parents and seeing our mother crying as we drove out of the village. I chose The Education Abroad Network because of the all the opportunities they provide for students. Working with them was a very personal experience, they don't take on too many students in order to really provide the best for those in their programs, everything from the application to in country connections. I loved that they offered opportunities for students to volunteer in the local communities and that their orientation program was so extensive. I would 100% choose to work with TEAN again. I lived in a modern apartment, shared with a local student. 2 bedrooms with a shared bath, individual closets, and a common room. All the furniture was provided,

An experience that I will always cherish

March 18, 2014by: Stephanie Sicat

Program: Study Abroad in Auckland, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

Fiji trip! Being without internet access or contact to anyone back home the first week was incredibly hard but something we needed to start our trip the right way. Happy we started with this hard but unforgettable experience. TEAN at my study abroad fair on campus stuck out to me especially Amanda who was so helpful in applying and accommodating me to my dream of going to New Zealand. Accommodations were good. Spacious housing and great people that lived there. Management was cool but could be better at improvements.

You should definitely go to Seville!

March 06, 2014by: Bella

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

5

I think that if you’re considering coming to Sevilla through Student Voyage, you should definitely go. You will be completely immersed in the culture and living with a host family is a great experience.

So much fun!

March 06, 2014by: Sophia

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

5

I haven’t been here for very long, but I am really enjoying the program. The host family is really good and we go on great weekend trips around Spain and Portugal and such. I am having so much fun!

Come to Sevilla

March 06, 2014by: Emma of Tampa Prep

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

5

So far, this has been the best experience of my life and I highly recommend this experience to anyone with the ability to partake in this opportunity.

TEAN, Thanks for the Experience of a Lifetime!

February 28, 2014by: Nneka.Walker

Program: Study Abroad in Wellington, New Zealand

5

Most of my favorite memories were in New Zealand, and it was all thanks to TEAN. TEAN’s Orientation gave me a great first impression of TEAN. Fiji gave me a firsthand experience of life in the Pacific Islands. The cultural activities (e.g. kava ceremony) exposed me more to the indigenous culture, and I took in the beauty of the island by walking along the beach and hiking to a nearby village. The TEAN-organized activities during my time in New Zealand made my experience an unforgettable one. Free front-row seat tickets to the All Blacks game and extravagant dinners made me love TEAN even more. Those activities gave me an artistic feel about New Zealand in general. I experienced the lifestyle of a New Zealander and observed the various elements (e.g. All Blacks haka dance) that made New Zealand a country that is one-of-a-kind. The TEAN staff abroad made me feel right at home. They were always available and gave prompt responses in all situations. Additionally, they did follow-ups throughout the semester and gave group invites to popular spots in the area. They gave advice on how to make a memorable experience by recommending hot spots or popular events, such as the weekly cultural night markets in Wellington. I personally had fun and exciting times with some of the TEAN staff, and we even became lifelong friends. We hung out on several occasions, and our moments are some of the best highlights of my experience with TEAN in general!

Gong Fall '13

February 28, 2014by: Matt Moloney

Program: Study Abroad in Perth, Australia with WorldStrides

5

The trip abroad began with a comprehensive orientation in Sydney where you are guided around the city by TEAN staff and you get to experience the country for the first time. It is a great way to learn about the city and get your first taste of the foreign culture. After the orientation I went of the TEAN Cairns Great Barrier Reef trip. It was the trip of a lifetime and allowed all of the students to engage in amazing activities every day while making new friends in the process. The University of Wollongong is a highly rated school with modern facilities and many great programs. The school is large and welcoming with great professors and staff. The proximity to Sydney is great and the train is just a few steps away from the housing area which makes traveling a breeze. The area is beautiful and you can get housing just a few minutes from the beach.

TEAN Went Above and Beyond

February 28, 2014by: Sarah Dunsing

Program: Study Abroad in Wellington, New Zealand

5

TEAN is 100% supportive from beginning to end. They work on a personal level with you in order to feel comfortable and confident that this is something the students are capable of accomplishing. The staff is very easy to access and they answer your questions within 24 hours, if not the same day. They give plenty of time to hand in all sorts of documentation, and also reminders when due dates were approaching. When it came time to meet them in person, they welcomed us with arms wide open. They kept us organized when transferring from different destinations and not once did I think they weren't keeping things in line. They were amazing people to bond with and get to know. It was obvious they love their job and dedicate so much effort and support to us students in order for us to have the best experience.

Take Me Back

February 28, 2014by: Misayo Welke

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

Choosing The Education Abroad Network program in Chiang Mai was one of my best decisions. This was my second time abroad and I don't think I could have picked a better program for me. I hope to continue my education in the field of International Development and while in Chiang Mai I had incredible opportunities to meet with local NGOs, members of parliament, and UN representatives to hear their stories and wise words of advice. I attended fantastic local events like Loi Krathong, the lantern festival, which was the most awe-inspiring thing I have ever witnessed. We experienced a homestay with local Thai families and got a real feel of traditional culture. I was able to volunteer teaching English and working with mentally handicapped artists. One of the best parts of studying abroad is to witness what you learn in class outside the classroom and what better place than Southeast Asia. If you are looking for something different, an adventure, Chiang Mai is the place for you!

Awesome Program in Salamanca

February 27, 2014by: Lisa Goddard - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Salamanca, Spain with WorldStrides

4

Beautiful city with amazing people

Come

February 27, 2014by: Jack Mazzulo - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Salamanca, Spain with WorldStrides

5

Come to Spain!

Love IT!

February 27, 2014by: Gabriel Fernandez - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Salamanca, Spain with WorldStrides

5

Love ISA. Great stuff. Great city. I love Spain.

Fun Experience in Salamanca

February 27, 2014by: Hailey - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Salamanca, Spain with WorldStrides

5

Very fun cultural experience!

Salamanca es la mejor

February 27, 2014by: Geddie Lojas - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Salamanca, Spain with WorldStrides

5

Woo Salamanca!

February 27, 2014by: Hannah Artz - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Salamanca, Spain with WorldStrides

5

Loved the University and all of the history here!

ISA Salamanca

February 27, 2014by: Peyton Saley - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Salamanca, Spain with WorldStrides

5

Loved ISA! Very organized and great directors, they make sure you have everything you need and are well taken care of. GREAT program!

ISA is Great!

February 27, 2014by: Anonymous - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Salamanca, Spain with WorldStrides

5

ISA has been wonderful! I loved my administrators and had a great time. Highly recommend for sure!

ISA Salamanca

February 27, 2014by: Gabriel Castrillo - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Salamanca, Spain with WorldStrides

5

So far it has been a blast meeting people and the week and a half I've been here already has improved my Spanish conversation.

Do your Research

February 27, 2014by: Racel Sterchelroett - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Salamanca, Spain with WorldStrides

5

Make sure you do your homework and find a program that caters to the specific cultural experience you're looking for 'coz it's worth it!

Great

February 27, 2014by: Koral Daniel - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Salamanca, Spain with WorldStrides

5

I loved it. Sometimes I haled that most of the students speak English so its hard to practice Spanish sometimes outside of class

Salamanca

February 27, 2014by: Stuart - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Salamanca, Spain with WorldStrides

4

isolo vives una vezi es necesarro que vicses!

I love Salamanca

February 27, 2014by: Raenall Hansell - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Salamanca, Spain with WorldStrides

5

I have loved traveling with ISA because they made the transition of living in another country so easy.

Great Experience

February 27, 2014by: Mariella Perez - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Salamanca, Spain with WorldStrides

5

ISA is really well organized and provides great cultural and educational opportunities.

Salamanca Rocked

February 27, 2014by: Rebecca Saunders - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Salamanca, Spain with WorldStrides

5

If you have the chance to come, DO IT! This was the best experience I could have done. I lived living with my family and the cultural experience. It was gorgeous and more beautiful than I expected. Best money I have ever spent.

Amazing Salamanca

February 27, 2014by: Patricia Gonzalez - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Salamanca, Spain with WorldStrides

5

The program was very helpful and is amazing to be here in Salamanca

The staff of ISA

February 27, 2014by: Cydney Elkin - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Salamanca, Spain with WorldStrides

5

The program staff are extremely friendly and accommodating, helping to make this a memorable experience

Auckland, New Zealand: experience that I will always cherish thanks to TEAN

February 27, 2014by: StephSicat

Program: Study Abroad in Auckland, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

Wow. Where to begin. TEAN was honestly the best decision I made to apply to an abroad program. They were so helpful, integrating, and well suited for me to go through to get to Auckland, New Zealand. The people I met through this program are definitely life-long friends and people I will consistently keep in touch with. The excursion trip and the staff were awesome! Everything with TEAN was definitely fate and I couldn't be more happier.

Best life decision ever

February 26, 2014by: Alex

Program: Study Abroad in Dunedin, New Zealand with WorldStrides

4

TEAN surpassed any expectations I had for studying abroad. Not only was New Zealand incredible, but the program was amazing. From the beginning, they were so helpful with applications and paperwork. When I missed my flight, they were there for me every step of the way. They brought us on incredible excursions, and my experience would not have been the same without them. When I got to New Zealand, everyone was jealous of how much traveling I'd already done!!

Amazing Time in New Zealand

February 26, 2014by: Athena Giles

Program: Study Abroad in Wellington, New Zealand - Massey University

4

TEAN's New Zealand program was fun and well-organized. It provided an extensive pre-semester orientation program, allowing for immersion in the culture and meeting other students studying there. It allowed me to make friends that I have kept even since coming home, and to adjust to be abroad. During the course of the semester, TEAN offered support and activities that were both fun and helpful. I enjoyed activites offered, such as meet-ups and going to see an Alll Blacks rugby game. The staff were all friendly and knowledgeable. Wellington is a vibrant and exciting city to live in. There are many museums and things to do, as well as fun night life. Massey University had a great international students program that offered activities and support throughout the semester. I felt very welcome in all of my classroom and university environments. Wellington was a good central location from which to travel to other parts of the country, as flights to the south island and buses to other parts of the north island were cheap and readily available.

Experience of a lifetime!

February 26, 2014by: Sperry

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

The Education Abroad Network (TEAN), was the best decision I have made so far in my young career. They were so helpful in everything that needed to get done in the application process. I emailed them hundreds of times of questions that either my mom and I both had. They were very polite, and so helpful with giving me so much help information. I met other Americans that did not go through TEAN and they were jealous of what we had, and they didn't. TEAN gives you the best housing options that got me extremely excited to go. For example I stayed in the Gold Coast, where I lived in hotel apartments that were a minute walk to the beach. My other options was to live at the schools dorms. Living on the beach in Australia was something that I never thought I would be doing, but it did. I met other Americans while in Australia that didn't go through TEAN and they had to live on campus, and that was the only option that they had. They also DID NOT have transportation from the airport to their dorms at Griffith Uni. TEAN would have coffee breaks which were when your RD would take you all out to grab coffee, and check up on you to see if everything is going great. Other programs don't check up on their students, which stinks because some people get homesick.

Best Trip of My Life

February 25, 2014by: Lucas Donahue

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Going abroad is the opportunity of a life time and no one allows students to better take utilize their time abroad then TEAN. Unlike any other program, TEAN took care of all the aspects of living on the other side of the globe for us, allowing us to get the most out of our time abroad. In fact, all of my friends abroad who did not go through TEAN constantly expressed their jealousy of TEAN's perks. No other program set up their students with cell phones, airport transfers, cultural excursions, or the best housing around. TEAN did all of these things. I am sure I would have loved my time abroad under any circumstances, with that being said, my time abroad would have been no where near as perfect as it was without TEAN and their staff.

The Adventure of a Lifetime: Student-Friendly City with Heaps of Adventure!

February 24, 2014by: Kristen C

Program: Study Abroad in Auckland, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

Ever since I've been back, I've been describing my abroad experience as "an unforgettable adventure." Although it may sound cliché, my trip truly was unforgettable for countless reasons. Since UNH is only three hours away from my hometown, I never truly felt like I was stepping out of my comfort zone. Every state and most towns in New England are fairly similar so I knew when I went abroad, I wanted a drastic change. I went from suburban life to city living, from a three-hour drive away to about a twenty-three hour in-flight commute. Suffice to say, I accomplished my goal of stepping out of my comfort zone, however, I would never say I was uncomfortable. Wellington felt like home from day one even though I was seven time zones away. I had an initial connection with the people, the culture, and unexpectedly, with city life. Never in my wildest dreams did I think that I would adjust so well to such drastic changes in my life, but I seemed to thrive in the chaos. I learned more about myself everyday I was away, through crazy adrenaline experiences as well as simply strolling through the city. My experience is forever ingrained my memory as well as documented in my daily diary entries, clearly unforgettable.

This place rocks

February 20, 2014by: Chase Wojie - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

5

I love it here, my only regret is I won't be here much longer. My advice for anyone considering study abroad, go for a fun semester or a year. You will love wherever you go and you won't want to leave.

Completing my dream to study abroad in Spain

February 18, 2014by: Ashley Hernandez - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Granada, Spain with WorldStrides

5

My time here abroad has been an adventure of a lifetime. I've been able to get immersed in the culture, lifestyle, food and much more. There is so much to see and take in. Beautiful scenery!

Love Study Abroad

February 18, 2014by: Sarah Smith - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Granada, Spain with WorldStrides

5

This experience has taken me so far out of my comfort zone, but I've loved every minute of it!

Amazing experience

February 18, 2014by: Rachel Eckley - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Granada, Spain with WorldStrides

5

I have been opened up to so many amazing experiences.

It has been wonderful!

February 18, 2014by: Lauren

Program: Study Abroad in Auckland, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

I was able to meet some of my best friends in New Zealand and we traveled all over the country together! One of our most fun trips was to Queenstown where we did the highest cliff jump in the world! I heard wonderful things about TEAN before choosing them and was able to contact them very easily to learn about different programs. The staff was approachable and friendly, but professional. They made my choice easy! I lived in a flat (house) with five other American students. I was able to cook my own food and live in my own room! We lived at the top of a hill that overlooked the city and were directly across the street from the botanical gardens. Prime location!

I enjoy it!

February 16, 2014by: Erica Dickens - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

5

The academics are good; however, it is sometime discouraging because I would rather enjoy the country. It was an amazing experience.

Best Experience

February 16, 2014by: Cheyenne Marbury - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

5

One of the best experiences of my life

Summer in Sevilla

February 16, 2014by: Kelly Dougherty - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

5

It was such a great experience! It's annoying going to class but the experience is totally worth it!

One of my college careers' highlights!

February 13, 2014by: Devon

Program: Study Abroad in Shanghai, China with WorldStrides

4

The whole trip was an opportunity of a lifetime, but sleeping in yurts in a frigid desert and riding camels across a sea of sand so large you can't see anything else is a unique experience in itself. I chose this program because of comprehensiveness of it as well as class offerings, school, and excursions. My accommodations had 3 bedroom apartment, kitchen, 2 bathrooms, living room, fully furnished, balcony. All very nice.

Unforgettable!

February 13, 2014by: Brendan

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

My most memorable experience while abroad had to skydiving over the Yarra Valley in Melbourne. It was the most exhilarating and eye-opening experience of my life. It made me the adrenaline junky I am today. Funny enough, this experience with not have been possible without the help of the TEAN representative in Melbourne. I contacted him before I flew to Melbourne because I needed to find a way to get to Yarra, which was an hour outside the city. Within a day, he hooked me up with all of the necessary information to get me to Yarra. It was a great feeling knowing that wherever I traveled, a TEAN rep would always have my back I chose TEAN because it was recommended to me by a friend who had spoke very highly of his experience. I lived in a beautiful, fully-furnished, beachside apartment with a balcony that overlooked the ocean. The sunsets that we were able to catch from our balcony, words cannot describe. We had a fully-stocked, professional grade kitchen, which I used to teach myself to cook a lot of new dishes. We had a gym, an indoor and outdoor pool and jacuzzi, and a sauna. My place was in Broadbeach, which was only a 15-20 minute ride to campus. Broadbeach the hub of nightlife in the Gold Coast and it was where all of the good restaurants were.

This is the time of my life!

February 13, 2014by: Aly

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

This is a hard question to answer because there's so many memorable experiences. TEAN really went out of their way to plan really fun events for the group, which made us become such close friends. About 20 of us planned a trip up to Cairns and we went skydiving the first day and took a day boat trip out to the Great Barrier Reef and went scuba diving the second day. It was an amazing trip and I got to check 2 more things off of my bucket list! My study abroad advisor suggested TEAN to me and I could not have had a better experience with them. They were so helpful throughout the entire semester. I lived in the beach housing (TEAN is the only program that offers this) and it was so beautiful! We lived in Broadbeach, which is a short bus ride from campus. Broadbeach is a beautiful city, right on the beach with tons of stores, restaurants, and bars and clubs in close walking distance. Literally everything you could need (or want) was just a quick walk away.

The most incredible semester of my life!

February 13, 2014by: Laura

Program: Study Abroad in Dunedin, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

My most memorable experience was a weekend trip a bunch of people in my flat complex took for our friends birthday. We hiked up to a hut in the mountains near Middlemarch and spent the night there. We had the whole hut to ourselves and it was one of the most fun nights I had that semester. It was just a great night with great people and it became one of my fondest memories. A close second would be a seven hour caving trip in Waitomo! I chose my program initially because of the Fiji excursion at the beginning of the semester. When I began looking my only requirement was that the program went to New Zealand and if I remember right that was about three programs at my schools study abroad fair. So the real decision maker was that trip to Fiji that was included for a program the same price as others that didn't do anything before hand! While I was studying abroad in Dunedin I was assigned to live in a student flat. I lived in a complex of four student flats, each with four international students and two kiwi hosts. The flat was awesome! It wasn't anything too special in terms of design but everyone within the complex became my home away from home and made the flat a warm and welcoming environment. It was pretty big adjustment to not have central heating, an internet data cap, and hanging the washing outside but those were all minor adjustments that were easy to overcome. Overall I loved my flatting experience and would choose it again in a heartbeat.

Memorable NZ!

February 12, 2014by: Erin

Program: Study Abroad in Christchurch, New Zealand with WorldStrides

4

My most memorable experience abroad would probably be travelling during the two week spring break. A couple of friends and I travelled down to Queenstown in the Southern Alps and got to see so many amazing sights along the way. While down there we got to go hiking, luging, and even took a horseback ridging tour through the mountains. When choosing a program to study abroad with, I chose to go through The Education Abroad Network (TEAN) because they offered so many locations in New Zealand and Australia to choose from and also had a program orientation that I found very helpful in making the transition to New Zealand more than just the half-day university orientation. While in New Zealand, I lived in Ilam Student Accomodation, which was a group of apartment buildings across the street from the University. The flats were above my expectations, with each one having its own kitchen, laundry, living room, etc, it felt much more like just living in a house than “dorm-style” like back in America. I was placed in a flat with 3 students from New Zealand and 2 other Americans. Living with students from New Zealand was definitely one of the best parts of my living abroad because I got more exposure to subtle cultural differences that I would not have noticed otherwise and they were very helpful in showing myself and the other Americans around the area and giving us a hand when we were lost or confused. They also introduced us to a bunch of other New Zealanders, which was great because it offered the chance to immerse more in local culture and activities as opposed to only hanging out with other American abroad students.

I'm in love with Brisbane

February 12, 2014by: Katie

Program: Study Abroad in Brisbane, Australia with WorldStrides

5

My most memorable experience would probably be my final trip to New Zealand. The tickets TEAN helped us get allowed for one stop over on our way home and I chose to stop in New Zealand. It was so gorgeous and a perfect way to end my semester abroad. I chose TEAN because I wanted help with all of the paperwork before leaving. They helped set up out housing, told us how to apply for visas and even how to sign up for classes. They also provided an awesome orientation week in Sydney, which was the perfect start for my semester. I lived in an apartment in the city. It was a 2 minute walk from the train station and bus station, 5 minutes from the Queen Street Mall and just across the bridge from South Bank. The location could not have been more perfect. We were in the center of everything exciting!

Sevilla is the best

February 10, 2014by: Amy Schuler - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

5

Coming abroad was the best decision I ever made. I've made so many friends and learned so much about myself and Spain!

Best decision ever i ever made!

February 10, 2014by: Mark Karetskiy - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

5

You'll make the best friends and memories you may (or may not) remember

I love Sevilla

February 10, 2014by: Diana Lopez - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

5

I love Sevilla! ISA is a great program, but the supplemental program I'm in, Veritas, is really unorganized. It is a missions work program. But I love my classes and Sevilla is beautiful!

My Greatest Adventure

February 10, 2014by: Lauren

Program: Study Abroad in Auckland, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

TEAN was extremely helpful in my study abroad experience from start to finish. I truly felt like a kiwi. I was immersed in the culture immediately and TEAN made sure that I felt right at home!

Great Experience Granada

February 09, 2014by: Nicole Brown - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Granada, Spain with WorldStrides

5

one sentence isn't enough to explain how much I love Granada

Good so far

February 09, 2014by: Laura Lagania - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Granada, Spain with WorldStrides

4

Great Experience

February 09, 2014by: Emily Cameron - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Granada, Spain with WorldStrides

5

NICE

February 09, 2014by: Taylor Schelstraete - United States

Program: Study Abroad in Granada, Spain with WorldStrides

4

I wish the academic situation were more organized however I've really enjoyed other aspects of my trip.

Going abroad with TEAN was the best decision I ever made

February 07, 2014by: Bennett Moss

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

The Education Abroad Network is the absolute best at getting students adjusted to their new home. The orientation in Sydney was the best way to ease into the new culture. The program is so helpful and answers any questions you have about anything. I spent several hours on the phone with them discussing two schools in the Gold Coast, and I am so glad I talked to them because it was the best 5 months of my life. Knowing other TEAN kids throughout Australia helped a lot when we traveled to Melbourne, Sydney, and Cairns. TEAN also does their best in providing great housing. It was so close to the beach. Having your own RD (Helen rules) that is close by and available 24/7 helped a lot. Helen would answer any questions we had, and when we first got there she told us everything there is to know about the Gold Coast. On a scale of one to ten, I'd give TEAN an 11.

Unforgettable

February 03, 2014by: BrendanG

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

What TEAN provides its students you simply cannot put a price on. When you are under their wing, you are family. I have never felt so safe in such a distant place. Whenever I needed them or had a question about anything, a TEAN representative was always there to assist me. Before I arrived at Bond University, TEAN planned an incredible excursion to Fiji and an orientation in Sydney. Aside from giving me the best four months of my life at Bond, TEAN taught me how to surf, provided weekly coffee breaks on campus, took us to an exquisite hibachi restaurant for a farewell diner, and informed us about various cultural events. It was because of them that I was able to find out about the Gold Coast 7's rugby tournament, the Melbourne Cup, the local markets, the Ashes test- the most famous cricket rivalry in the world between England and Australia- and so many other unforgettable events. Now, for those who have not seen Bond's campus, it is breathtaking. With its modern architectural design, open grass fields, and beautiful lagoons that run throughout campus, Bond feels more like a beach resort than it does a school. It's facilities- gyms, olympic length pool, tennis courts, volleyball courts, basketball courts, etc.- are all brand new. TEAN gives you the option to live on campus or live in a 5 star beachside apartment in Broadbeach, 20 minutes from campus. Either way, you cannot go wrong. I can truly say that my experience would not have been what it was if I did not go through The Education Abroad Network.

Time of my life!

February 02, 2014by: Aly

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

There's so much to learn about yourself and the world living in another country. You learn how to use public transportation to get around and travel, you learn to cook and enjoy different foods, you get a new appreciation of different cultures by meeting new people and so much more. My program directors went out of their way to make sure that everyone accomplished everything they wanted to and more while abroad. I had the time of my life traveling all over Australia doing things that I will never forget like holding koalas, skydiving, scuba diving, kissing kangaroos, hiking, surfing and of course enjoying the nightlife. I definitely want to go back one day soon!

A truly life changing experience!

February 01, 2014by: Laura Nickerson

Program: Study Abroad in Dunedin, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

I'm not even sure how to sum up the most incredible semester of my life... but I can begin with the fact that not only did I experience some amazing things, but I was changed personally. Before studying abroad I never imagined myself jumping out of a plane, doing multi day hikes around mountains, abseiling into a cave, or even taking a NZ foreign policy class! For me personally, studying abroad at Otago was a completely different experience since I currently attend an art school that I'm not even sure if they offer political courses or not. I know for sure there's no mountain to hike within walking distance from my apartment! TEAN was an integral part of my semester because honestly, travelling with a program takes a lot of stress out of the situation and added heaps of experiences I treasure. We went to Fiji and Auckland before the semester even started and then an All Blacks game during the semester. What more can you ask for! The representatives are also extremely helpful and always eager to assist in anything you need. I couldn't have picked a better program to share my adventure with and I wish I could do it all again!

A highlight of my college career

January 31, 2014by: dbmoore27

Program: Study Abroad in Shanghai, China with WorldStrides

4

Studying abroad was something I always wanted to do and kept pushing off. One great result of pushing it back was it gave me the time to discover TEAN. They did a fantastic job setting you up the summer before and assimilating you into your new life on the ground. Having actual people there to help you through the process is huge. While there, we were taken care of and put in accomodations that made other students slightly jealous. It was the perfect spring board to venture out and experience what comes after the classroom in a study abroad. Academics: Due to some restrictions because of my home degree, I was unable to take as many classes with Chinese students as I was wanting to, but they were still informative, useful classes. Living Situation: Great place to live, good location, not too far from campus, but very close to subway and activities Cultural Immersion: Shanghai is a slightly different city than most in China by nature. However, it's still a world class city, and no regrets living there.

In love with Brisbane

January 29, 2014by: Brisbane13

Program: Study Abroad in Brisbane, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad is hands down one of the best decisions someone can make while in college, but it comes with a lot of paperwork and planning. The Education Abroad Network was a HUGE help for me when planning out my semester. It was a huge stress relief that they helped us step by step with housing, picking classes, etc. It also didn't hurt that Brisbane is an AMAZING location. It was so easy to feel like a local and really get the true aussie experience. I would go back to Australia in a heartbeat and I know TEAN had a lot to do with my fantastic experience while abroad! Academics: UQ has a beautiful campus and some amazing classes! The tutorials were a great way for me to get to know local students and the professors were amazing teachers. Living Situation: Living in the city was the best decision I could have made. It was so close to everywhere people loved to go. Close to the mall, train station and local cafes, it was the perfect spot!

Sweet As

January 27, 2014by: Sarah May

Program: Study Abroad in Dunedin, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

TEAN took us to Fiji, let us jump off the Skytower in Auckland and provided us with numerous advantages just by being a part of the program. The staff was alway eager to help and just a email away at all times. They constantly were updating us on things to do in Dunedin and around New Zealand in general and really cared! I knew that New Zealand was going to be one of the most amazing experiences in my entire life and TEAN really helped me achieve that.

Brisbane changed my life

January 27, 2014by: Brisvegas

Program: Study Abroad in Brisbane, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad through TEAN at the University of Queensland was the best decision I've made in college. TEAN helps you through the entire process from applying to the school, registering for classes, and setting you up in amazing living situations. They give a life changing 5 day orientation in Sydney and then have representatives near every campus. Brisbane is a magical area. There is always something going on, mellow or upbeat. And the transportation options are unbeatable whether you take a ferry on the river, or a quick train ride to the Sunshine or Gold coast. If you plan on studying abroad, I highly recommend using TEAN. Living Situation: I lived in a gorgeous apartment in the city with an incredible view of the Brisbane River

BEST DECISION OF MY LIFE

January 27, 2014by: shawnshannon11

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

If anyone is ever interested in studying abroad I would highly recommend doing it through The Education Abroad Network!! They make the whole process extremely easy for everyone and help you with everything along the way. This started during the application process by practically holding my hand every step of the way to make sure I was applied in time. They have an awesome staff that love what they do and made my abroad experience in the Gold Coast Australia unbelievable. They offer you the best living arrangement seconds from a beautiful beach, and offer you many other trips to go on while your there. If anyone is thinking about doing this one day I promise you that you wont regret it! Program Administration: All of the staff that I worked with or got to meet from TEAN were all very friendly and willing to help with anything that I needed during my abroad experience. Health and Safety: I never once felt unsafe during my abroad experience!

An Amazing Experience Abroad!

January 25, 2014by: Erin Burns

Program: Study Abroad in Christchurch, New Zealand with WorldStrides

4

I learned so much while I was abroad and I am so thankful to have made the decision to go. I got to explore a really fascinating culture that on the surface didn't look too different from my own but surprised me in the subtle differences on many levels. I also was exposed to a new perspective of my own country as seen from abroad and it was eye-opening to see how other people viewed America. Academics: The classes were all challenging but very engaging and interesting. There was not much given for homework, so most of your grade was based on a couple long-term projects and the final exam. Cultural Immersion: Because half of my flatmates were from New Zealand I got to meet most of their kiwi friends and was able to immerse into the culture more once I had made friends who were from the area. Program Administration: I had a great experience with the TEAN staff abroad. Whenever I had a question or issue they were very easy to get in touch with and always responded quickly. The staff were all so friendly and certainly made my transition to a different country and my experience abroad very smooth.

The best of Argentina

January 09, 2014by: Kayla Fox

Program: Study Abroad in Buenos Aires, Argentina with WorldStrides

4

ISA was a fantastic program. I only have wonderful praise for them. They are quick to respond, very helpful, and they offer great services, excursions, and support. The first few days we went through orientation which scared us half to death about the dangers of Buenos Aires, but it was all valuable information intended to keep us safe. The excursion to Iguazu Falls was one of the highlights!

You can't go wrong with ISA London.

January 07, 2014by: Lexy

Program: Study Abroad in London, England with WorldStrides

5

The trips organized by ISA were definitely a highlight of my time abroad. We went to Scotland, Stonehenge, Bath, Canterbury, Dover, and so many more places. Every trip was memorable and so easy because I had to do ZERO planning. ISA planned everything and everything they planned is exactly what you'd want to see. I specifically loved the double decker bus tour we took around London and the Ghost Bus Tour we took on Halloween. Both organized by ISA and both wonderful. A friend of mine at Boise State was going to study abroad in London through ISA. She always knew she wanted to go to London, though I'm not sure how she specifically found ISA. I sat by her in one of my classes and she'd always talk about everything she was doing to prepare to study in London soon. She got me interested in going so I ended up going the semester after her and used the same program she used because she seemed to like it and that was I had someone to ask all my questions to! When I went, you were either placed in dorms or apartments (I believe you could choose which you preferred). I lived in a dorm. I had my own room, five suite mates, two bathrooms, one GIANT kitchen. There are two (at least) dorm locations and both are in the heart of the city! You can't go wrong with either. I knew people who lived in apartments (placed there by the program, not apartments you have to find and rent). Apartments were more modern than the dorms (but the dorms are by no means bad), most have a TV in them, however, you had to share a room-- usually with only one other person but I think I remember one case of three people to a room. Rooms were decently sized, though, so you weren't just crammed in there. Also, anywhere you live will be close to a tube station which is completely necessary and completely awesome!

The program helped me get the best experience

January 02, 2014by: aedwards

Program: Study Abroad in Auckland, New Zealand with WorldStrides

4

Studying abroad was the best four months of my life and TEAN helped contribute to this experience by their support, enthusiasm, and all the events they set up for the students. If would encourage every person wanting to study abroad to go through this program!

Pure Awesome.

December 21, 2013by: Lexy

Program: Study Abroad in London, England with WorldStrides

5

You can't go wrong with ISA London. The staff in London is completely awesome. They plan the most amazing outings-- ranging from museum visits to weekend trips around the UK. The staff is friendly, helpful, and full of knowledge. They are always available-- even (especially) on a drop in basis-- to chat about anything. Whether you want tips on things to do in London or just someone to talk to because you're feeling a little homesick, they are always there for you. Studying abroad is an absolutely incredible experience but studying abroad through ISA London will make the difference between a good experience and a great experience. Academics: I attended the University of Westminster. Classes are a bit different than in the USA. Grades generally consists of two assignments: Two papers. Occasionally you may have one paper and one test but generally it's just that: two papers. It can be scary because one paper (the last one) may be 75% of your total grade so you can't screw up! But also, there's nothing to be afraid of. Put forth some effort and you'll be fine. The nice thing about this type of academic culture is that you know at the beginning of the semester EXACTLY what your assignments will be and when you're not working on an assignment you have a lot of free time. That sounds a little obvious so let me reword that: When you decide to actually do the research and write your essay, you are busy. But you can go from start to finish in as little as a few days so all the other days you have free time-- no assignments due! Good academics, by the way. The right amount of challenging to learn a few things but the right amount of easy so you can enjoy your time abroad and explore your city. Living Situation: When I went, you were either placed in dorms or apartments (I believe you could choose which you preferred). I lived in a dorm. I had my own room, five suite mates, two bathrooms, one GIANT kitchen. There are two (at least) dorm locations and both are in the heart of the city! You can't go wrong with either. I knew people who lived in apartments (placed there by the program, not apartments you have to find and rent). Apartments were more modern than the dorms (but the dorms are by no means bad), most have a TV in them, however, you had to share a room-- usually with only one other person but I think I remember one case of three people to a room. Rooms were decently sized, though, so you weren't just crammed in there. Cultural Immersion: London has every culture imaginable! You see a million different types of people every single day, hear a million languages, see a million different styles. You can eat any type of food. London has everything. Program Administration: The folks at ISA London are the most incredible people you could ever meet. They put on such an amazing program and organize tons of wonderful trips. They are kind, caring, and always available to help you with any problems you may have, answer questions, or provide tips on fun things to see and do around the city. You can't go wrong with ISA London. Trust me. It's the best decision you'll ever make. Health and Safety: It's a big city; be careful. Don't go places alone at night. Don't make eye contact with scary people at night. Or in the daytime. There were times I felt uncomfortable but never once was I attacked, pick pocketed, nothing. Like everyone always says, use common sense. Also, I have been out alone at night (I'm a female) because of classes getting out when it was dark and there are always so many people everywhere so you're really never alone. Social Life: I'm not the most social person so I'm not really equipped to give a rating on this. However, from talking with the people I studied abroad with, it's an A+.

5 Islans, 3 Countries, 10 pounds, and no regrets!

October 27, 2013by: holtej

Program: Study Abroad in Wellington, New Zealand

5

The Education Abroad Network (TEAN) was the perfect program to study abroad with. They maintained the perfect balance of keeping in touch and helping us out while still giving us our space so we could have our own adventures and experiences. Before we left for our semester abroad TEAN maintained excellent, speedy communication about what was happening and what we needed to be doing to get ready to leave - this alleviated a lot of unknowns and nerves for everyone. We started out the semester with orientation on a small, rural island in Fiji, which was the perfect place to get to know everyone in our program and begin to build life-long friendships. We then flew to Auckland where we were able to really get to know New Zealand and dive into the culture by learning about the Maori history and even canyoning! Throughout the semester TEAN brought us to a rugby game, took us out to coffee to chat and catch up, sent us monthly events that were happening around the country so we could plan trips around them, planned optional excursions throughout New Zealand, Australia, and Thailand, and took us out to a farewell dinner before we all left the country. I highly recommend TEAN to anyone that is considering studying abroad. You can't go wrong and will have an amazing semester if you chose The Education Abroad Network.

Amazing Experience

October 27, 2013by: Valeria Culebras

Program: Study Abroad in Auckland, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

I believe it is an opportunity to mix traveling and studying and turn them into a much more rewarding experience. My study abroad experience was a once in a lifetime opportunity. I got to study in one of the top 3 Universities in China, learned about the SouthEast Asian cultures, politics and economic structures, traveled, lived in the best street to live in near the university, and met amazing people. The program you apply for can make the difference between a good experience and a great one. Having studied abroad with another program before and from what I learned from other students in other programs in China, I can say that not all the programs focus as much as TEAN does in very important details like housing, orientation, and just making sure that everything you need is easy to obtain. Going to China was an amazing experience and anyone who has the opportunity should go.

The Best Decision I've Ever Made

October 25, 2013by: Brynne Shannon

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

My title says it all. My decision to study in Thailand through TEAN was truly the best choice I've ever made. I was looking for a program that had a nice balance of structure and freedom, and TEAN falls into that category beautifully. Since Thailand is such a unique study abroad destination, TEAN wants to make sure that their students feel comfortable prior to leaving, upon arrival, and throughout the semester. The administrative staff is incredible--they are dedicated to making sure that their students are prepared, comfortable, and happy. If I emailed my program manager with a question, I would without a doubt receive a response within 1-2 hours. Prior to studying abroad, I had never gone outside of the United States, so I was looking for a program where I could really immerse myself in a new culture. TEAN places each of their students with a local Thai roommate who attends the same university. This was absolutely my favorite part of the program. Not only was it helpful to have a local to help me navigate the city, but it gave me a unique inside-look to an amazing culture that I probably wouldn't have gotten if I was paired with another American student. The excursions TEAN takes you on are also awesome. From spending a day at an elephant camp to taking organic cooking lessons, these we easily some of my favorite memories from study abroad. The academic excursions are also really wonderful because you're able to see first-hand many of the things that you learn about in your classes. I would recommend TEAN to anyone and everyone. You will not be disappointed with this choice.

Fantastic Experience in Chiang Mai!

October 23, 2013by: lachoy

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

I took the Thai Dance class module during the summer. The class involved learning choreographed dances and performing them in a final performance. The class was small (3 of us) which made for an even better learning experience. Living with the Thai roommates in the Uniloft dorms was great as well as they really helped to immerse us in the Thai culture. Lastly, the beautiful scenery and landscape of Chiang Mai is absolutely breathtaking on its own. If you go, be sure to try the yellow curry +pork at P'fon down the road from Uniloft! It's AMAZING. Living Situation: The Uniloft dorms were excellent (clean, modern, apartment style)-even better than the dorms at my home university! Each of us were paired with a Thai roommate to help us acclimate better. I became great friends with my roommate and she (and all of the Thai roommates in general) were very kind/friendly and always eager to help us. Cultural Immersion: Besides the cultural immersion in Chiang Mai, the weekend trip to Sukhothai (despite the heat!) was great and I had the opportunity to bike with some of the Thai roommates around the Sukhothai Historical Park. Also, all of the Thai roommates were very helpful in making sure we got as much of a cultural experience as we could during our stay.

Best Experience of my Life

October 17, 2013by: Lmitt

Program: Study Abroad in Sydney, Australia with WorldStrides

5

I could not imagine my semester abroad without The Education Abroad Network. Thanks to this program, everything ran smoothly from academics and housing, to cultural activities and excursions. I lived in the TEAN organized housing in Bondi Junction. We lived in beautiful high-rise apartments with an amazing view of the city and great accommodations. The apartments were right above the train and bus stations which made exploring the city easy and convenient. My favorite parts of the semester were the two TEAN organized excursions that I went on. I went on a pre semester trip to Cairns and a semester break trip to Thailand. Both excursions were packed with awesome activities like bungy jumping, scuba diving, and kayaking in Cairns, and Thai cooking class, elephant rides, and snorkeling in Thailand- and TEAN planned it all! Definitely an amazing program and an unbelievable 5 months! Living Situation: The TEAN housing options were incredible- great accomodations, locations, and people! Program Administration: TEAN staff is very friendly, helpful, and responsive to any concerns.

ISA Granada

October 16, 2013by: Katie

Program: Study Abroad in Granada, Spain with WorldStrides

5

Alumna of ISA Granada Fall 2005. Loved everything about the program. Directors are fantastic - they even went out of their way to get me into a class that wasn't part of the program. My host family was wonderful and made me feel welcome. Excursions are great. Only wish I had stayed a whole year rather than just for a semester!

5 Islands, 3 Countries, 10 Pounds, & No regrets

October 16, 2013by: Jan Jan - Wellington

Program: Study Abroad in Wellington, New Zealand

5

The Education Abroad Network (TEAN) goes above and beyond what you would expect out of a study abroad program. It was the small things like bringing us to a Rugby game during the semester, or sending us events from city we lived in for each month, or just grabbing a coffee with us to chat about everything that was happening that really made them stand out as an awesome program. Knowing they were available by call, text, or email at any time of the day if we needed anything was the reassurance I needed to go and have fun, experience new things, and take chances because I knew TEAN always had my back. New Zealand is a very outdoorsy country, and TEAN knew exactly how to get us used to that by having orientation for four days in Fiji on a remote island. What better way to get to know everyone in the program and get used to living and doing outdoorsy activities than in Fiji?! Hand downs I would go back to New Zealand with TEAN immediately with any chance I was given!

University of Otago

October 08, 2013by: Alessandra Monroe

Program: Study Abroad in Dunedin, New Zealand with WorldStrides

4

I was fortunate enough to spend my spring semester in Dunedin with several other students from the Education Abroad Network. I felt at home in Dunedin by the end of my 4 months there, and really came to love the entire country of New Zealand. I was happy with my decision to live on the South Island because there is so much to see there, and most sights are pretty accessible by bus or car. I was never bored, always looking forward to something, and really fostered my love for all things outdoors while I was there. TEAN did a great job at introducing us to New Zealand and everything it has to offer, and was supportive throughout the application process and any help that we needed throughout the semester.

Going to study in Jordan was a life changing experience!

September 26, 2013by: JBennett
5

When I told my parents that I decided to take Arabic, they thought I was crazy. Then a year later I told them I wanted to study abroad in Jordan, and they did not like my decision. At first they said no because it was too dangerous. But once I showed them the ISA information, they started to get used to the idea of me studying abroad. The ISA website provided information about the city of Amman, where we would be living, the various excursions, and our directors that we would meet. This was extremely helpful for my parents because it seemed like they had a million questions about the program. The information helped to reassure them that the area would safe, and they finally decided to let me go. Before leaving for Jordan, the representatives in Texas were very helpful in answering any questions that my parents or I had about everything from classes to food, and money conversions to excursions. And once in Jordan our ISA directors were always there when we needed them. They helped us when were sick, when we wanted to find new places to see, and if we just needed to talk. Also, the classes we took were the perfect size so the teachers got to know each of us in the program, and were very accommodating when we didn’t understand a concept or idea. Another great aspect of the program was the various touristy things we did. We went to Petra (where Indiana Jones finds the Holy Grail!), Aqaba to snorkel and scuba dive, and the Dead Sea. We also got to see the various ancient and modern aspects of Amman. Overall, I was extremely pleased with ISA. They set up the classes so they were not overwhelming for my classmates and I. The excursions were amazing and I took hundreds of pictures, and it was exciting to see a completely new and different culture first hand. I strongly recommend choosing ISA as your study abroad program, and if you decide to go to Jordan, then it would be an experience that you will never forget.

The best decision you'll ever make

September 23, 2013by: rachel292

Program: Study Abroad in Sydney, Australia with WorldStrides

5

This past semester I traveled to Sydney, Australia through TEAN. This program gave me every opportunity possible in studying in a foreign country so far away. Adjustment was easy and flawless, and made my experience that much more enjoyable. Our living accomodations were serviced apartments so not only were they amazing and had full access to a gym, pool and tennis court but it looked over the entire city of Sydney. Besides housing, TEAN offers full access to a full staff who are available to help right in Sydney with classes and any questions anyone might have. As well as the staff, TEAN provides fully planned trips to places such as New Zealand, Thailand and Fiji. These trips provides students with an entire few of the place they choose to go with amazing adventures that one would not have been able to plan on their own. I did the spring break trip to Thailand. We were able to ride elephants, play with tigers and even sleep in real Thai village! All in all, TEAN was an amazing program and offers every thing one might need in order to maximize their experience abroad.

The best decision you'll ever make

September 23, 2013by: Rachel

Program: Study Abroad in Auckland, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

This past semester I traveled to Sydney, Australia through TEAN. This program gave me every opportunity possible in studying in a foreign country so far away. Adjustment was easy and flawless, and made my experience that much more enjoyable. Our living accomodations were serviced apartments so not only were they amazing and had full access to a gym, pool and tennis court but it looked over the entire city of Sydney. Besides housing, TEAN offers full access to a full staff who are available to help right in Sydney with classes and any questions anyone might have. As well as the staff, TEAN provides fully planned trips to places such as New Zealand, Thailand and Fiji. These trips provides students with an entire few of the place they choose to go with amazing adventures that one would not have been able to plan on their own. I did the spring break trip to Thailand. We were able to ride elephants, play with tigers and even sleep in real Thai village! All in all, TEAN was an amazing program and offers every thing one might need in order to maximize their experience abroad.

Great program!

September 22, 2013by: Matt

Program: Study Abroad in Florence, Italy with WorldStrides

5

Great program! I love FUA. Wish I had more interactions with Italians.

I absolutely LOVED my program

September 22, 2013by: Geena

Program: Study Abroad in Florence, Italy with WorldStrides

5

I absolutely LOVED my program! ISA was so supportive and really cares for you. The location of my apartment was prime -- right in the city center. Academics were also so interesting and really broadened my horizons.

Once in a lifetime

September 21, 2013by: H. Haberle

Program: Study Abroad in Florence, Italy with WorldStrides

5

Awesome experience with great people!

A Dream Come True - My Semester in New Zealand

September 21, 2013by: bmminer9

Program: Study Abroad in Wellington, New Zealand - Massey University

5

TEAN was a great program to study abroad with. They were very informative and helpful with any and all of the questions that I had before, during, and after my abroad experience. TEAN is great at introducing the country and culture to the Students. TEAN staff is very caring and one of the best aspects of the program is that TEAN is very personal; they know who you are before you even meet them! Academics: Interesting and diverse classes. Cultural Immersion: I felt extremely integrated with the local culture. Rather than staying in one specific area of New Zealand to learn about the culture, I chose to travel the country and explore what I like to call the greater 'country culture'. TEAN began our cultural immersion with amazing activities that involved a day partaking in outdoor adventure activities - Canyoning & Rugby on Piha Beach - and the other day with familiarizing the students with the local Maori culture. Program Administration: TEAN's on-site staff was incredible! They had the perfect balance with staying in touch with students, as they were neither too over-bearing, nor impossible to contact. If needed, the staff was a simple text or phone call away. Other than that, they met up with us monthly to see how we were doing and discuss our trips, classes, and plans for the remainder of our time. Although they did give us our freedom in the country, they were always looking out for us; a perfect example, was my incident in Queenstown, New Zealand. I ended up dislocating my shoulder during my trip to Queenstown, and within 24 hours (me, still being slightly unaware of everything) I had on-site TEAN staff, along with US-based staff and even TEAN-staff in other countries send me emails, texts, and other notifications to see if I was okay and if I needed anything. The feeling I got from all those messages was incredible, it was nice to know that TEAN actually cared for my safety and well-being.

I couldn't see myself going anywhere else!

September 20, 2013by: Nick W

Program: Study Abroad in Dunedin, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

Choosing to study in New Zealand is a unique experience that few can say they truly understand. I had no desire to study in any countries of Europe- I wanted to go even farther away to somewhere beautiful in both scenery and culture. While in the process of choosing my city to study at I considered what kind of environment in which I wanted to be. TEAN explained to me that if I want to see beautiful natural landscapes of fragile ecosystems then the south island is for me. I researched the University of Otago in Dunedin and immediately decided on it! I have never had the experience of a college town so I had my heart set on it. There are hikes to do around the city and some of New Zealand's most beautiful natural parks are just a couple hours drive away. TEAN is a wonderful study abroad program and I urge you to contact someone from the program! They are so kind and helpful over email, phone or facebook message. And definitely like their facebook page to receive updates. In hindsight, I am so glad I chose to study with TEAN because not only did they guide me through the application process but they brought all the New Zealand students on an incredible orientation in Fiji and Auckland that I will never forget. Make all of this possible by taking the first step! Talk to your international studies office and contact someone from TEAN! They will be very glad you called and will help with any question you have. Study abroad and have the time of your life!

A Month To Remember

September 19, 2013by: Amy

Program: Study Abroad in Madrid, Spain with WorldStrides

5

My experience abroad in España has been a great cultural immersion. It has allowed me to learn the Spanish language and learn the traditions of the people.

ISA All The Way!

September 19, 2013by: Clair White

Program: Study Abroad in Madrid, Spain with WorldStrides

5

ISA was a great program that provided many opportunities to not only improve your Spanish but learn about the heart and soul of Spain as well!

A Dream Come True

September 19, 2013by: Ashlyn Cook

Program: Study Abroad in Madrid, Spain with WorldStrides

5

ISA and living in Madrid for a month has not only helped my Spanish skills, but has helped me mature and grow as a person more than I could have imagined. I wish everyone could experience traveling to another country. My host family, new friends, and Madrid will always have my heart,

The City That Stole My Heart

September 19, 2013by: Carla Stauder

Program: Study Abroad in Madrid, Spain with WorldStrides

5

This may have been the best experience of my life. I have met so many people and created amazing friendships and memories. I knew I would have a good time in Madrid but didn't know I would fall in love with the city. I wish I had more time in Madrid but I plan on studying abroad again.

Awesome!

September 19, 2013by: Esther Schoonover

Program: Study Abroad in Madrid, Spain with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad has been an amazing experience. Meeting people from all around the world has been awesome and eye opening. Everyone should go abroad at least once in their life!

Spain Review

September 19, 2013by: Jay Sinovic

Program: Study Abroad in Madrid, Spain with WorldStrides

5

Spain Rocks!

Mi Vida Español!

September 19, 2013by: Kathleen Bishop

Program: Study Abroad in Madrid, Spain with WorldStrides

5

España is the place to go to study abroad and have the time of your life!

Perfecto/Magnifico

September 19, 2013by: Jonathan Wolbert

Program: Study Abroad in Madrid, Spain with WorldStrides

5

A great time and I have learned a lot. A life changing experience that I will never forget, it will shape me as a person.

Best decision ever

September 19, 2013by: Valeria Culebras

Program: Study Abroad in Shanghai, China with WorldStrides

5

My semester in China with TEAN was my second study abroad. It was a good and interesting experience, but my semester in China was AMAZING because of TEAN. I had the chance to study, learn about an incredible culture, and travel all in one. Many thought I was crazy when I told them I was going to China but I consider this one of the best decisions I have ever made.

Best Experience of My Life!

September 16, 2013by: Kayla
5

I spent this past summer living in Amman, Jordan, and I can say without a doubt it was the most life-changing summer I will ever have. Before going to Jordan, I did not know anything whatsoever about life in the Middle East. I had the common misconceptions that many Americans hold. But after living in Jordan and being completely immersed in the culture, I have gained so much respect for people of the Arab/Muslim culture, that I pass it on to everyone who will listen to me in America. I would have never been able to learn any of the things I experienced from a textbook. The best part of the trip was the people I met. I learned about a completely new perspective on life. The people in Jordan were the most helpful people I have ever met. Everyone was very patient with my group and was willing to help us with our Arabic or finding things if we were lost. Before going, I was a little concerned about my safety. I will tell anyone that I felt 100 percent safe in Jordan and although there are some things that differ from American culture, it was still a very safe and welcoming environment. The program would not have been what it was without the amazing staff. Our program director, Mohammed Naser, was the most helpful and guiding person that there could have been. He made my group feel safe in every situation and he was very knowledgable about any and all questions we asked. I would gladly recommend this program to anyone who is thinking about it and I would love to visit Jordan again!

The TEAN Experience, Truly Unforgettable

September 12, 2013by: Aimee

Program: Study Abroad in Townsville, Australia with WorldStrides

5

My time in Australia was truly AMAZING, and I hope anyone reading this is as lucky as I am and gets to experience this beautiful country one day! Here, I was able to take classes on coral reefs and australian fauna, which complemented my Environmental Studies Major nicely. Not only did I get to take interesting classes, but I also lived with the locals and got to know Australians on a more personal level and make friends that will last a lifetime! Athough I will say studying in Townsville, a small city/more rural and quiet area, is not for everyone, it certainly was the right choice for me. From Cowboys League Rugby games, to weekends on Magnetic Island (Maggie for the locals), to field experience on reefs and in the Outback, there was never a dull moment and I truly feel I was able to get the most out of my time in Australia. TEAN was very helpful both during pre-departure and during my time abroad, and the assistance and programs they conducted for us while we were abroad definitely helped to make my experience unforgettable! Thanks TEAN! Academics: I loved all of my classes while I was abroad. I am an Environmental Studies Major and while abroad, I was able to take Australlian Vertebrate Fauna, Functional Biology of Marine Organisms, and Coral Reef Geomorphology. Although I loved the opportunity to take Australia-specific classes, the academic style in Australia is a little different and it was a but difficult to adjust to at first. Once I sat through a few classes though, I found my classes much easier to adapt to. Living Situation: I lived on-campus at JCU in the Western Courts. These are demountable buildings containing single rooms with your own bathroom, fridge, and aircon. I did not have a problem with my room and I found it comfortable. The room was a bit small, but there were other common areas for our hall where we could sociaize and study. Cultural Immersion: I was living with mostly Australians, and most of the friends I made were Australian. I think living on-campus was definitely an advantage in this regard, and now I have lifelong friends that I keep in contact with still! Program Administration: My questions were always answered in a timely manner, and I never had to question whether or not I still needed to hand in paperwork in order to go abroad. TEAN did a great job with the business end of things, which enabled me to fully enjoy my abroad experience.

Incredible

September 03, 2013by: mayamosk

Program: Study Abroad in Sydney, Australia with WorldStrides

4

There is nothing bad to say about The Education Abroad Network and studying abroad in Sydney, Australia. It was the most incredible 5 months of my life and I would not change a single second of it. Everything flowed smoothly thanks to the Education Abroad Network and I could not have done it without them. Thanks to them my experience abroad ran smoothly and whenever I needed help they were always available. There is NO other program to go through, they are the best!

DO IT!

August 31, 2013by: Leili

Program: Study Abroad in Madrid, Spain with WorldStrides

5

studying abroad with ISA was the best decision of my life. I loved every moment living in Europe and leaving was the hardest thing I had ever had to do. Academics: Nebrija university was an amazing school. I was really glad that I got to study there. The professors are great and super helpful with anything you might need help with Cultural Immersion: Living in Spain is really fun and challenging. If you take time to get to learn the language and make friends outside of your fellow study abroad group, by the time you leave the country your almost like a local. ISA gave us a lot of opportunities to be immersed into the Spanish culture Health and Safety: Just like anywhere you go be careful with your items. I felt safe riding the metro and walking around with my friends. I never felt any real danger because I was always with a group and knew my surroundings.

Words cannot explain my experience abroad in Australia!

August 30, 2013by: Renee C.

Program: Study Abroad in Perth, Australia with WorldStrides

5

It was more than worth it! I gained more in 5 weeks then I have throughout my whole life of schooling. Not only did I learn about wildlife and culture, but I gained a better perspective about life and taking things one day at a time. Life is full of endless possibilities, but if you put your mind to it, you will achieve them. That is exactly what I did by studying abroad in Australia. And I never expected to meet so many new people, whom I would consider life-long friends. No matter the cost, flight, or country... get out there and study abroad! You will NOT regret it! Academics: I believe our group learned and saw more in 5 weeks than most people have their whole life living in Australia. Not only did we learn from short classroom lectures, but we applied this knowledge hands on by hiking trails and mountains, camping, and field studies. This made the educational experience more interesting and unforgettable. During the 5 weeks we had to write in field notebooks, do specific activities, write a research compare/contrast paper, create a group presentation, and take a final exam. The work load was not too much and used everything that was taught. The professors Rosalie, Brad, and Geoff topped off the educational experience by being brilliant teachers, very knowledgeable of each topic, very entertaining, and could answer almost every question possible. Unlike your typical semester class, this was not one you would fall asleep too! Living Situation: We stayed in about 6 places in 5 weeks and they were all fairly comfortable, even when camping. My favorite were definitely the hostels because you got to meet more of the locals and personally know the people in your group, since you had to live with multiple people in one room. I have never been in a hostel before, but they are much more entertaining and chill then a hotel. Overall, the location of each place we stayed was great! No matter what, you could find somewhere to go or something to do in the area, even if you had to take a bus. Program Administration: The program administration made the process to prepare for studying abroad much smoother and very easy going. I have never traveled internationally before and I was doing this all on my own. With their help I was never stressed or worried about payments, flights, and what to pack. I would specially like to give thanks to Rachel Dorsey, whom had guided me since my freshman year through the process to study abroad. Health and Safety: Just make sure you always look right-left-right when crossing the street! It was hard to get used to at first, but sometimes your main concern can be crossing the road and not getting close to a car. Australia rarely has crime, so as long as you walk around with one other person at night, your fine. Social Life: You can never be bored or say there is nothing to do. I honestly felt like I didn't have enough time to do everything!

An Adventure in Mind.. and so much more!

August 28, 2013by: Alyssa Davidson

Program: Study Abroad in Christchurch, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

Because I attend a small ag school in PA, our study abroad office is virtually non-existant, but thanks to a TEAN rep who visited campus, I became hooked on the idea of studying abroad in New Zealand. From the start, TEAN made the 'getting there' process fool-proof, with friendly staff on hand to cheerfully answer any and all questions and do everything they could to help get us there. Between phone calls and emails, I was soon underway, and my parents loved the value of the program and how easy the process was. TEAN handles everything from helping us book group flights to figuring everything out with our chosen Uni so everything is sorted upon our arrival. The pre-semester Fiji trip was absolutely unforgettable, and I will cherish the friends and memories I made there forever. Between the Aukland orientation and excursions throughout the semester, not only could TEAN students build lasting friendships with eachother, but also with the TEAN staff members, who were absolutely incredible people in every sense of the word. No matter what, they were only a phone call away to help us out with anything! Lincoln is a smaller ag-based school, and I absolutely loved it. While not in the heart of Christchurch, it's just a bus ride away and I was happy to escape the chaos of the city for a different sort of experience. Living on Farm Road was the best decision I made, most of my friends being kiwis or other international students from all over the world. If you're interested in anything ag, environment, or anything at all, Lincoln could be the place for you, and I would recommend TEAN to get you there; it was the best decision I could have possibly made when I chose to go abroad.

TEAN: Best 5 Months of My Life Studying in Melbourne!

August 25, 2013by: Erica Sibley

Program: Study Abroad in Melbourne, Australia with WorldStrides

5

I can't describe how happy I am that I chose to study abroad through TEAN! They were so incredibly helpful from Day 1. They help you with accommodations, visas, transcripts, and any other thing you can think of. Although I studied abroad in Melbourne, I began my adventure in Sydney for the TEAN Orientation. It was the absolute best start to the study abroad experience. TEAN set up fun activities to explore the city and get you more acclimated to the Australian culture. It was a great way to meet other people in the TEAN program as well. After the Orientation, I spent my semester in Melbourne studying at Melbourne University. I loved every second of it! Melbourne is an awesome city with so much going on. TEAN provides a resident director for each city who is there for you if you have any questions or concerns. TEAN also sets up activities so you get to experience the culture. For me, some of these activities included a footy game and a music concert for the band Cat Empire. Your resident director accompanies you to each of these events. It was comforting to have a someone from TEAN there in case you needed guidance. TEAN also provided amazing housing! It was right in the heart of the city so you could really immerse yourself in the Australian culture. It was really quality housing and had everything you would ever need. I wish I could go back in time and do the semester all over again. TEAN is definitely in large part why I had such an amazing experience and I would highly recommend this program to anyone interested in studying abroad!

Studying Abroad Made Simple

August 23, 2013by: Wendy L

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

My whole study abroad experience with TEAN was outstanding. TEAN took care of everything from my flights and housing all the way down to getting my transcript to my home university. My journey abroad started with the TEAN orientation in Sydney which was so incredibly awesome and informative. We partook in a harbor cruise, climbing the iconic Sydney bridge, an amazing race, a costal walk, and so much more! There was never a dull moment and at the end of orientation in Sydney I felt as if I knew the city very well. In addition I was able to meet other students who were studying at other universities throughout Australia, this came in handy while traveling. When I arrived at the Gold Coast I instantly fell in love. Our apartment was beautiful and a block from the beach, the location couldn't have been more perfect! Right off of the beach there's public barbecues where me and friends spent spent many nights grilling dinner and playing games. Broadbeach has all you can ask for; plenty of restaurants, shopping, a grocery store, and great nightlife. Surfers Paradise is a few bus stops away and has everything Broadbeach has to offer but on a larger scale. To get to Griffith I would take the bus everyday which I got used to quickly. The bus system on the Gold Coast could get you to many places and you are forced to learn how to use it. I even taught some of my Australian mates how convenient the bus system could be! Currently there is a rail system under construction on the Gold Coast which will improve the public transit even more! I strongly recommend both TEAN and the Gold Coast, I could not have had a more amazing experience abroad and can't wait till I can travel back! Academics: The classes at Griffith were challenging allowing me to learn a great amount. I strongly recommend The History of Australia with Dr. Mike Davis Living Situation: My accommodation was all set up by TEAN, making it so easy. I lived in the Meriton Serviced apartments at Broadbeach with three great roommates who were also in the program. Our apartment had everything we needed and was cleaned weekly. You are in the center of Broadbeach surrounded by public transit, restaurants, nightlife, and the beach! Cultural Immersion: While abroad I met not only Australians but people from all across the United States and world! The friends I made are lifelong and I can't wait to continue my travels with them. Program Administration: TEAN is amazing, they will help you with any issue you have and set up basically everything for you. Everything you don't want to do such as finding a place to live, booking your flights, and requesting your transcripts TEAN takes care of for you. They keep you very involved and offer many cultural experiences. I always felt connected to the TEAN staff and never had a problem!

BEST LIFE EXPERIENCE IN NEWCASTLE!

August 22, 2013by: Caitlyn Moore

Program: Study Abroad in Newcastle, Australia with WorldStrides

5

I spent five months in Australia and fell in love. The people were extremely friendly, the food was amazing and the culture was so exciting. I got to swim in the Great Barrier Reef with sharks, eat kangaroo and even go to the biggest IMAX theatre in the world! I would definitely recommend going through The Education Abroad Network and going to the University of Newcastle. It will change your life! Academics: The classes were very hands on and challenging. I learned so much! Living Situation: We lived in a share house with twenty Australians! It was the best experience ever because we really got to engage with the culture. Program Administration: Everyone was so helpful and always knew how to help.

Adventures, Mountains, and Beaches for miles

August 20, 2013by: Julie G

Program: Study Abroad at University of Sydney with WorldStrides

5

Looking back at the 4.5 months that I was abroad, I could actually pin point the time period that I really started to transform and grow. It was after a 10 day trip up to Cairns, I started hiking every weekend, and adapted to a healthy life style. I was more energetic, constantly going to new places and seeing new things, and growing as a person. I became very independent, and truly enjoyed the changes that happened within me. Now upon my return to the states, I really feel that I've taken everything that I learned from abroad and adapted it to my current lifestyle in some way. Academics: My educational experience was a bit out of the ordinary, it was very memorable and beneficial. My professors and tutors were innovative and passionate about their subject. One of my finals was a dance performance! I really enjoyed the variety of classes that were offered to me, and the unique experiences that came with them. Living Situation: My flat was located across the road from Central Station, which was central to EVERYTHING! I was able to get around, and go absolutely anywhere that I wanted to. Westfield shopping center, suburbs, blue mountains... check, check, check! Cultural Immersion: Aussie's are friendly, fun, and caring. I definitely got the opportunity to meet many great people! Health and Safety: My flat had constant security surveillance. This was fantastic.

The Best Four Months

August 18, 2013by: allisonk

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Choosing to study abroad with TEAN was the best decision I could have ever made. When you are preparing to study abroad and going through the application process, there is an American TEAN staff member answering any questions you may have. The orientation program planned by TEAN in Sydney is awesome! You get to climb the Sydney Harbor Bridge, pet a koala, take a night time dinner cruise around the harbor, and more. TEAN staff are there the entire time showing and telling us all about the amazing city. Once you get to your study abroad location, TEAN has a local resident director that is planning cultural events for us to go on and constantly telling us places we should check out. The TEAN staff thoroughly enjoy their jobs and do everything they can for their students to have the best study abroad experiences possible. I can't thank TEAN enough for helping me have the most amazing four months of my life! Living Situation: TEAN offers three housing options for students at Bond University; on campus, nearby off campus, and beach housing. I stayed at the beach housing which is very popular among TEAN students. We were a five minute walk from the beach and right in the middle of many restaurants and shops.

Wonderful Once in a lifetime Experience!!

August 15, 2013by: DevonK

Program: Study Abroad in Shanghai, China with WorldStrides

5

Tean is a wonderful program to go on for both those who have no experience abroad and those who are very China savy. I highly recommend them because they were not only very knowledgeable on how to approach China, but they also bend over backwards to help students out. They put us in very nice apartments with western amenities that made the stay slightly easier. Having met others who were studying abroad through a different organization I am grateful to have picked TEAN to study abroad with. The Chinese culture is very interesting and I would recommend it to anyone regardless of knowledge level of Chinese or Chinese culture. I had no knowledge of the language or the culture and it turned out to be the best experience of my life! Academics: Fudan is challenging yet achievable. The staff there is very helpful and many speak english Living Situation: Wonderful they put us in the best apartments in the area and it was far better than any location on campus Cultural Immersion: They put you right in downtown Shanghai it is a great location that has some western amenities as well as plenty of Chinese culture to surround you Program Administration: They were always there and were quick at resolving any situations that arose

Semester of a Lifetime

August 15, 2013by: Shelby K

Program: Study Abroad in Sydney, Australia with WorldStrides

5

This experience was unlike any other. I made such strong friendships, and experienced things I never thought I would do (like skydiving!!!!). I traveled to Thailand, New Zealand, Fiji, and other cities in Australia, and each place had something special about it. I would 110% do it all over again and I think it was more than worthwhile. Australia is an INCREDIBLE country and I would love to go back there someday soon. Living Situation: TEAN housing in Sydney was incredible! My friends on other programs were shocked when they came to our apartments and saw how beautiful they were and how amazing the location was. Program Administration: TEAN staff was always so helpful whenever we needed anything, both before and during my semester abroad.

By far the best experience of my life!

August 06, 2013by: stephaniem

Program: Study Abroad in Brisbane, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad was such a memorable experience and I would do it again in a heartbeat! I learned about people from all over the world and how their lives differ from mine in the United States. Studying and living abroad opened my eyes to various world issues and made me a much more independent and confident person. This experience was absolutely worthwhile and I encourage everyone to study abroad!

By far the BEST experience of my life!

August 06, 2013by: stephaniem

Program: Study Abroad in Brisbane, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad was an amazing once in a lifetime experience for me and I would do it all again in a heartbeat! I was able to meet so many local and international students and make great friends. Living and studying in a foreign country for five months made me much more confident and independent. I loved being immersed in a foreign culture and it opened my eyes to how things are done differently outside the United States. I recommend study abroad to everyone!

Experience of a lifetime

August 02, 2013by: Christina C

Program: Study Abroad in London, England with WorldStrides

5

Going to London this summer was the greatest month of my life, and using this program only made it even better. From the minute I signed up, ISA was very helpful and reliable, and made everything from applying to arrival and getting adjusted very easy. The living situation/location, school, and program reps were wonderful and allowed us to have the greatest experience possible and make the most of our time. Also, the excursions they provided were so much fun- everything was so organized and enjoyable we truly had such an amazing time. If I ever do another study abroad program I will definitely use ISA. Living Situation: I was in the University dorms and was SO pleased with the location and room. Two minute walk from the tube, I always felt super safe, and I had my own bedroom but could still spend as much time with my friends as I wanted. Perfect living situation! Program Administration: Maria and Tom who personally greeted us at the airport and came on the excursions with us were not only welcoming, but extremely helpful, friendly, and made us feel comfortable right from the first moment we arrived. All of us in this summer's program will miss them a lot!

Sevilla is the best

July 03, 2013by: acsc222

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

4

Coming abroad was the best decision I ever made. I've made so many friends and learned so much about myself and Spain!

Come to Sevilla

July 03, 2013by: UHH

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

4

Best decision I ever made! You'll make the best friends and memories you may (or may not) remember.

I love Sevilla

July 02, 2013by: Diana Lopez

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

4

I love Sevilla! ISA is a great program, but the supplemental program I'm in, Veritas, is really unorganized. It is a missions work program. But I love my classes & Sevilla is beautiful!

Ok.

July 02, 2013by: lauralag

Program: Study Abroad in Granada, Spain with WorldStrides

3

Program is nice and okay.

Good

July 02, 2013by: Emily3C

Program: Study Abroad in Granada, Spain with WorldStrides

4

The program in Granada is good.

I wish the academic situation were more organized

July 02, 2013by: elise92

Program: Study Abroad in Granada, Spain with WorldStrides

3

I wish the academic situation were more organized, however, I've really enjoyed other aspects of my trip.

My Experience

July 01, 2013by: Kelsey S.

Program: Study Abroad in Granada, Spain with WorldStrides

4

My experience has been amazing but there are too many Americans around me and it is difficult to meet natives/locals.

I Love Granada!

July 01, 2013by: Nbrown33

Program: Study Abroad in Granada, Spain with WorldStrides

4

One sentence isn't enough to explain how much I love Granada.

A great choice for students without previous international experience

May 16, 2013by: Anonymous ISA-DR
4

I'm so thankful for the support that ISA provided before, during and even after my semester abroad. My host family, classes and excursions were fo the highest quality and I would recommend the program to a student looking to go abroad for their first time.

Costa Rica

May 02, 2013by: Mahalah

Program: Study Abroad in San Jose, Costa Rica with WorldStrides

4

I loved Costa Rica and the program I went through. They were very accommodating and helpful with everything and culture immersion.

Perfecto!

April 18, 2013by: April Wyatt

Program: Study Abroad in Chile with WorldStrides

5

My experience abroad with ISA literally changed my life. I ended up changing my major career goals. I cannot express fully my gratitude and appreciation for all the people at ISA and CLU that encouraged me along the way. Study Abroad.... changing lives one flight at a time...

A+ Experience!

April 16, 2013by: Kate

Program: Study Abroad in Melbourne, Australia with WorldStrides

5

The Education Abroad Network was instrumental in making my study abroad experience at Deakin University in Melbourne. Australia is exceptional. The guidance and support TEAN offered throughout the application process was great. I was immersed into Australian culture by living in an amazing house in one of trendiest neighborhoods in Melbourne. TEAN provided all of this for us. They also provided a resident director in Melbourne who took us to events all over the city and was also a resource if we ever need anything. Deakin was a short commute from our housing and was a beautiful campus with interesting classes. Overall, TEAN gave me an amazing study abroad experience!

Adventure Abroad!

March 11, 2013by: Krystle Thai

Program: Study Abroad in Shanghai, China with WorldStrides

4

Fall 2012 was the best semester of my entire life. Why? The people, the culture, the activities, the adventures, The Education Abroad Network. Shanghai, China will never be looked at in the same way. TEAN offered wonderful excursions and awesome bonding opportunities which brought every closer together. They prepped us with what to expect to help students be at ease. The housing was in a prime location and was very close to campus. Because we were fully integrated into the fudan system, we were able to choose among the whole class list which I really appreciated. If it weren't for TEAN, I would have been disappointed with my class options. THANK YOU!

ISA Study Abroad Sevilla

March 04, 2013by: mckenna

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

4

I loved it but felt like I was not as immersed as I could have been. I spent mostly all day at school where I spoke English with American students. I would have like to lived with Spanish students.

Cultural success with ISA Jordan

February 23, 2013by: Salam
4

For students with the right mindset to study in the Middle East, ISA Jordan is a fantastic & rewarding experience. The program managers are extremely helpful and encouraging for students to get involved in Jordanian culture.

Study abroad with ISA! You won't regret it!

February 23, 2013by: Rebekah Pierson

Program: Study Abroad in Salamanca, Spain with WorldStrides

4

My experience abroad in Salamanca with ISA was life-changing. The program was well-organized and the employees made my study abroad transition easy and comfortable. The best decision I've made in my life was studying abroad in Salamanca with ISA.

Amazing

February 23, 2013by: CKenney

Program: Study Abroad in Wellington, New Zealand - Massey University

5

The TEAN New Zealand programs are amazing. A pre-semester trip to Fiji, Spring Break options in Asia, and ever-present help if you need it- this program has it all. They help you with every step along the way from applying to choosing a location to housing and even an in-country orientation when you arrive. I had the time of my life when I went abroad with TEAN (to Massey University- Palmerston North). I would do it all again in a heartbeat if I had the chance. Since I don't, I highly encourage you to take advantage of the option instead.

Everything is better down under!

February 21, 2013by: aburns321

Program: Study Abroad in Newcastle, Australia with WorldStrides

5

I had the most amazing time in Newcastle at the University of Newcastle. The campus is like a jungle, and there are about 5 gorgeous beaches in Newcastle alone! The big city feel is right around the corner with a quick trip to Sydney, I found myself going there for a weekend at least once a month! The University had multiple campuses to choose from, including one right in the city walking distance from the beach, or and that is more of a remote close knit community made up of dorms, or "colleges" of students from all over the world! Either way, both campuses are about an 8 minute train ride apart :) If you choose The University of Newcastle, you will not be disappointed!

Loved studying abroad

February 19, 2013by: Kevin Hanson

Program: Study Abroad in Cusco, Peru with WorldStrides

3

I had such an amazing time studying and adventuring in South America with ISA. The trips we did to Iguazu Falls and Machu Pichu were amazing. The program I chose wasn't with local students so I had to be a bit more adventurous to find local friends

Home Away from Home

February 19, 2013by: NatalieC

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

TEAN was available every step of the way, as I was applying, before I left, and when I arrived in my host country up until I boarded my flight home. Whether is was to chat at a sponsored coffee break to grab free coffee and cakes with my resident director, when I felt homesick and needed some guidance on my situation, or when there were TEAN sponsored activities like surf lessons and rugby tournament tickets, I was always under great care. The orientation in Sydney was one of the best things that TEAN put on. It was a great way to see that area of Australia with the help of a local! I climbed the Sydney Harbor Bridge, had lunch by the Opera House, had a beautiful harbor cruise, and got to meet some of the local wildlife before classes even started! When I did move to my final location in Gold Coast, I often got emails on what things were happening in the area and great restaurants and venues to check out. I can't imagine going through any other program because TEAN really did have everything covered. With their off campus beach housing, I was able to immerse myself right in with the Australian's and understand their culture better. I can't believe I was able to live only 5 minutes walking distance from the beach! Living Situation: I choose TEAN's off campus beach housing which was in a hotel in Broad Beach. While I had to commute to campus each day, I was able to walk to the beach any time I liked. It was a very central location, with the bus station and shopping centers within walking distance. There was a lot of food available to buy, as well as a fully stocked kitchen in which to cook in. Each week, the apartment was cleaned and linens were changed. My balcony view showed the ocean and sometimes even whales breeching! With many of the program participants choosing beach housing, it was very easy to have someone to hang out with. There was never a dull moment!! Cultural Immersion: While Bond University is one of Australia's best rated universities, it is also home to a large population of International students. It still was a great insite as to how Australian's learn and study at Uni. Living off campus gave me a greater sense of integration with the local community.

Unforgettable experience

February 17, 2013by: kristensek

Program: Study Abroad in Auckland, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

I loved the organization and integrity of this program. They were always so helpful with any questions or concerns I had prior to studying abroad, and also throughout my time in Australia. My favorite part of the experience was the orientation in Sydney. The program was so organized the entire week and was scheduled out so that we knew what we were doing through out the day. Visiting the Opera House, climbing the Sydney Harbor Bridge, and the Sydney Harbor cruise were just a few amazing things that we did that made my experience so awesome. And the fact that the program was so organized and experienced made it that much more enjoyable!

Shanghai: City of Fun, City of Learning

February 17, 2013by: Ian Boley

Program: Study Abroad in Shanghai, China with WorldStrides

5

Shanghai is the center of Asia, in the sense that it attracts people from every part of the world. If you want to study here, Fudan is the Chinese equivalent of the University of Chicago. If you want to have fun, (whatever "fun" means for you) Shanghai is a great place to do it, with urban fun to be had, and a wonderful location as a base for those who want to go out into the Chinese countryside. TEAN's excellent on-site service and relationships within the local area make for an incredible experience overall, no matter what you're looking for. Academics: Fudan's academics are excellent. My experiences working with professors from Philosophy, History, and the Center for American Studies were all wonderful, and the classes they taught were top-notch. The only issue to be aware of is that Fudan is attempting to combat grade inflation on their campus, so they only allow 30% of a given class to receive an A or A- grade for the semester. That said, anyone can get a B+. Moral of the story: pick classes you'll care about, and put in the extra effort--Fudan professors do notice, trust me. Living Situation: TEAN's off-campus apartments are excellent in every sense of the word. The location is superbly convenient, a 15-minute walk from campus, and an even shorter distance from Wal-mart. The apartments themselves are well-furnished and have all the amenities one could ask for, except an oven and dryer--welcome to Asia! As for dinning nearby, there is safe street food to be had within easy walking distance, and Western-style restaurants even closer. While you can live in the international student apartments at Fudan for less, having been a frequent visitor to that august establishment, I would say that TEAN's off-campus housing is the better deal by far. Cultural Immersion: It doesn't get much better than Shanghai for cultural immersion. Chinese in Shanghai are friendly to Westerners, as they see the bottom line in dealing with them, rather than the Party line. The amount of cultural immersion is totally up to you. You can get by with next to no Chinese the entire semester, or you can speak it almost exclusively every day--it just depends on your willingness to put yourself out there. Program Administration: TEAN"s in-country staff is excellent. They have a wonderful grasp of the structure at Fudan, and they are also very able to relate to the off-campus landlords in addressing any apartment issues that crop up.

Studying minutes from some of the best surf beaches in Australia

February 15, 2013by: Tom

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

The one great thing about TEAN is that they hook you up. The orientation in Sydney helps you get acclimated to being in Australia while doing activities like climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the TEAN Amazing Race. Then when you get to Gold Coast Helen, the Resident Director, is helpful with whatever you need. Whenever I emailed her about something I'd get a response back within an hour with more information than I was expecting. She would also email us frequently about different events happening in Gold Coast but also in Brisbane. Another great aspect about TEAN is that you have the option to live in serviced apartments right on the beach. TEAN also has many events throughout the semester like surf lessons and going to a Gold Coast Titans rugby match as a group which students I know from other programs wished they had the opportunity given to them. With so much to do in Gold Coast, as well as its great location centrally along the east coast making it easy to travel with short flights, I'd definitely recommend this program.

Best 4 months of my life

February 15, 2013by: Joe Hardardt

Program: Study Abroad in Sydney, Australia with WorldStrides

5

TEAN is awesome! From the very beginning of the process, TEAN staff was always available and happy to help me get organized. It was challenging as a science major/pre-health student to go abroad because of the strict course schedule that I had to adhere to. TEAN helped me collect course syllabi so that I could get approved for study abroad. They were also willing to negotiate a payment plan with me. Essentially, they made the process run as smoothly as possible and took care of a bulk of the work for me. This didn't change once I actually got to Australia, either. The TEAN staff abroad were so excited to teach and orient new students and were always willing to provide advice and assistance. One of the coolest things about TEAN is that they offer a really cool orientation in the beginning of the program. During this time, you get to engage in really fun activities and try a lot of different things that many locals can't say they've done. I decided that I wanted to study abroad in high school after learning that my cousin did it when she was in college. I thank TEAN for making my study abroad experience possible and for making the process so easy. I do not think that I could have picked a better program.

Eyes Opened, Never to be Shut Again

February 13, 2013by: kbbaker

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

When asked why I chose to study abroad, I would initially respond with a rather generic answer such as, “to broaden my horizons”, or “to see another part of the world”. Little did I know that I would in fact grow in so many ways. Through my semester in Thailand with TEAN, I was able to fully immerse myself in, what I have come to regard as one of the most breathtaking and heartbreaking parts of the world. I was humbled by an explosion of life and different customs that previously I had never dreamed of witnessing. I was able to learn more about myself, while growing in knowledge throughout my experience. TEAN provided ample opportunities for us to immerse ourselves in the culture and truly make the most out of our experience. From the time we arrived in Bangkok for our orientation to when we finally departed, TEAN staff were supporting us throughout our adventure, ensuring a smooth transition into the culture. Not only did the in-country staff provide weekly coffee visits and monthly dinners as a way to check in, they supplied us with excursion options and opportunities to volunteer at local organizations. I am forever grateful for my experience with TEAN. Not only has my passion for traveling greatly deepened, but my semester abroad has opened my eyes to another side of the world that I will never be able to forget.

Thai Times are Great Times

February 12, 2013by: derricom1

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

Great times in Thailand with a huge thanks to TEAN! I just got back from my semester abroad in Chiang Mai, Thailand at Payap University through The Education Abroad Network. TEAN took care of it's students and gave all of us the chance to get the most out of our experience abroad. Without a doubt, I recommend anyone interested to highly consider TEAN as your choice to go abroad. Make sure you go to their webpage, look through all their study abroad options, contact TEAN alumni or actual TEAN directors with questions, and you will for sure start thinking The Education Abroad Network is the way to go abroad. And with that, I say thank you to The Education Abroad Network for the an amazing time that I will never forget!

TEAN guided me on the greatest journey of my life. Let them guide you as well.

February 12, 2013by: Brian Powers

Program: Study Abroad in Auckland, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

TEAN surpassed my expectations in all aspects! They work with you through every step of the process and make sure that you are on time with preparations for going abroad. Once overseas they really treat you like royalty. The pre-semester orientation takes place in Fiji on a beautiful island. So from the start you are in a situation where you become close friends with everybody in your program and you already can start to appreciate a different culture. (Not to mention the food is exceptional!) When you arrive in New Zealand, TEAN has more representatives ready at the airport. They provide you with great accommodations and really fun trips, including white water rafting. Throughout the semester TEAN remains in contact and provides meet-ups and other fun events. They also give great information on upcoming events and promotions. I think the most important thing though is that TEAN gives you the freedom to be yourself. They give you the choice to be a part of the events during the semester. They allow you to experience the country the way you want to. TEAN is the best and you really should really let them guide you on this special journey! Academics: The University of Auckland is definitely a challenge and is recognized in the region as being a university that promotes excellence. I found it to be difficult at times because I was unfamiliar with some of the historical happenings of New Zealand. I was impressed when, on the first day of orientation, the faculty of the university stressed to us the importance of experiencing New Zealand beyond the classroom. They told us that we would grow more as human beings if we immersed ourselves in our surroundings. Of course we were still expected to put some effort into classes, but it's important to remember that the experience is just as important as the academics. Living Situation: TEAN spread out the Auckland students between two separate University accommodations. I was placed in Parnell Student Village and had a wonderful living situation. PSV consisted of all international students and it was a great resource for connecting with students from across the world. Because there were so many exchange and study abroad students in PSV, there always was somebody looking to travel and explore the country. PSV also was located in one of the nicest neighborhoods in New Zealand. Places around were somewhat expensive, but all within walking distance. The walk was about 10 minutes to the shopping center of Newmarket and 15-20 minutes to campus. The walk to campus was incredibly beautiful and brings you through the Auckland domain and past some amazing views of the city and ocean. The rooms were not enormous, but you are given privacy and each flat has a kitchen. I definitely recommend PSV. Cultural Immersion: New Zealand is so culturally diverse that you really experience more than just the Kiwi lifestyle. The country has many influences from the Maori people and you'll become quite familiar with the foundations of the country. Also there are many travelers from all over the globe. I met so many people from every place imaginable. So not only do you develop friendships in New Zealand, but you also create ones all over the world. It's really quite cool! Auckland is known as the cultural center too, which is great! Wellington is really neat as well and has very artistic influences. Program Administration: TEAN always had somebody ready to assist. Even after my study abroad experience, they still check up on me. You will always feel safe in the hands of TEAN. They are well-organized when it comes to getting you to New Zealand and making the time there exciting! They also organize events throughout the semester, which you can chose to go to or not. (last semester we got to see an All Blacks vs Australia rugby game!)

Santander-- The Ireland of Spain

February 11, 2013by: mlichtenfels

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

5

Loved this program and I cannot wait to return to Santander! Academics: The classes started late (this is Spain, so that was not a surprise. Culturally, there is not the same emphasis on schedule.) but the professors were fabulous for the most part. I studied globalization of economics, international relations, international marketing, and a few other business courses. The Spanish program struggled due to scheduling of professors, but it is a smaller program so they have more flexibility for student needs. Living Situation: My host family was amazing and the majority of students in the program had really wonderful experiences in home-stays. Cultural Immersion: Because it is a smaller city, with a small study abroad program, there is a great opportunity to full immerse yourself in the culture. Program Administration: The organization was lacking but across the board the program was friendly.

Time of my life.

February 11, 2013by: jcziegle

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

I am very glad I chose to go through TEAN. They made everything so easy for students. Before leaving the country TEAN prepares students by letting you know everything from what to pack to how much your average groceries will cost. When you arrive in Australia a TEAN representative meets you at the airport and you have an orientation in Sydney. After orientation, TEAN brings you to your housing and acquaints you with you the local community. Throughout the semester your TEAN advisor is letting you know events throughout your area and they even set up a few events (surf lessons, rugby games, comedy night). TEAN makes sure that you are enjoying your time abroad and really points you in the right direction of how to maximize your experience. Living Situation: Wonderful housing. I chose to live in beach housing which was in an Australian community and just 3 minutes from the beach. The rooms were incredible for student housing. Cultural Immersion: TEAN had a great 5 day orientation in Sydney. TEAN did an excellent job of informing us on the local culture, while making it totally fun at the same time. Some of the highlights were the bridge climb, the walking tour, the trip to the zoo, and the Sydney Harbor cruise.

When Can I Go Back?

February 04, 2013by: Kaylie Adams

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

It's hard to find the words to adequately describe the feelings I have towards an organization and program that forever changed my life. To say The Education Abroad Network is anything less than indescribably magnificent, would rob it of its rightful superiority. I tell everyone who asks about my abroad experience that it wouldn't have been a fraction of what it was without the people of TEAN and their endless opportunities for cultural immersion, comfort and adventure. You're catered to from the moment you express interest in their programs and never left without complete satisfaction and appreciation. I can't stress enough the personable staff and how much TEAN has to offer. It's the best value out there and far exceeds its competitors. Living Situation: TEAN gives you three options for Bond University: Full-serviced apartments conveniently located by the beach and city as well as a short bus ride to campus; on-campus dorms with a bathroom; off-campus apartment-style housing that is only a ten minute walk to campus. Cultural Immersion: TEAN provides a five-day, comprehensive orientation in Sydney prior to your semester even starting. Then, throughout the semester, your direct advisor organizes cultural events such as rugby games and surfing! Program Administration: Never have I encountered more supportive or experienced staff than I have with TEAN employees--the love for their job more than radiates. You have both an advisor here in the United States as well as one in whichever city you decide to study in. They're more than willing to answer any question or alleviate any concern.

Why TEAN made Aussie

January 31, 2013by: pgrassia

Program: Study Abroad in Brisbane, Australia with WorldStrides

5

TEAN is respectful and helpful beyond belief. I was late in my registration for studying abroad and TEAN helped me so I could get everything in. They help communicate not just daily but hourly through email with you, your university, and the international university. They provide speedy and personalized service for each student. Once you get to Australia you will be in a group of other TEAN students going to different unis. This group spends a week together just exploring Sydney and getting in touch with the culture. All the events provided are fun and the staff treats you like adults not students which is really awesome. They do not care about partying or drinking so long as you do not get in trouble. We stayed at the best hotels, ate at the best restaurants, and the last night we were on a cruise dinner in Sydney harbor. From there you go to your uni and TEAN helps you all along the way with anything you need from academic help to job search. Also they organize cultural events that are really awesome and fun. Once you get back to the states they help you make sure your credits all transfer in and really take care of you. I was so impressed with this experience and the personnel that I still find myself talking with the people I met through TEAN, students and faculty. Living Situation: TEAN gives some of the best options to students in Australia for living accommodations. The only down side is being in Australia there will be bugs but they are not a problem unless you leave food or garbage out. Cultural Immersion: Everyone I met wanted to meet international students or was international themselves. I got a job easily and met a lot of people that just the school wouldn't have allowed me to meet. TEAN has active representatives that help you with job search and the cultural events are amazing and well organized. Program Administration: Without a doubt TEAN is the most respectful and egalitarian of any organization dealing with students. I would not choose any other network to go abroad with. Health and Safety: Brisbane may be the safest city in the world. Social Life: People are very nice and want to hang out with Americans and it is not hard to make friends at all.

ISA is awesome!!!

January 27, 2013by: Caroline Mangan

Program: Study Abroad in Madrid, Spain with WorldStrides

5

I did a lot of research before settling in with ISA, but I am so glad I ended up there. The staff both stateside and abroad was enormously helpful, and in my opinion, that says so much for the experience as a whole. Their Madrid office is right in the middle of the town square, so it's fun to go in and ask for anything you may need. The excursions were awesome and super unique, and if it weren't for them I don't think I would have seen a lot of what ended up being my favorite parts of the country. The university is great as well, and the classes offered were really fun. I'd even be so bold as to say that I may have learned more in Madrid than at my home university, and I completely enjoyed it at the same time! ISA is wonderful, and I have no regrets with the program I chose!. Do it!!

Thank you ISA Paris

January 21, 2013by: monica_ohlala

Program: Study Abroad in Paris, France with WorldStrides

4

Studying in Paris with ISA was an AMAZING experience. I got to live out my dream of living in and exploring the beautiful city of Paris. All of the information supplied by ISA before departure and upon arriving in France was so helpful and helped prevent serious culture shock and stress. The staff is so incredibly helpful about any questions/issues you may have. They plan excursions in the city and outside of Paris for you, so you get to explore a little more without any extra effort. That's also a really good and easy way to meet other people in the program. The French course at the Catholic University was somewhat challenging and really forced me to speak up and use my French which turned out to be a really good thing as I gained more confidence to go out and speak to the natives. Workload was not bad at all though, so I never felt swamped with school work and could go out after class without stressing. I took Art History with ISA, and that was incredible. We went to many museums and sites in the city, and I learned a ton. No classroom time at all, which was great. I met so many awesome people through the program, and my host family was fantastic. I am so grateful to ISA for giving me this great experience. If you are considering this program, go for it!

AWESOME!

January 10, 2013by: Katherine Coker

Program: Study Abroad in Madrid, Spain with WorldStrides

4

I LOVED my program! They had an office right near campus that I could go to for anything. They had textbooks, computers, wi-fi, cultural excursions to sign up for, they had pre-planned trips included in the program price. They were so nice & funny - the people that worked in the office, they knew you by name, I planned a trip to Barcelona & they helped with my flight, hotel, etc. I would definitely recommend this program for anyone studying abroad!!

Siesta and Fiesta: Sevilla

November 16, 2012by: Eli Adelman

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

3

I had a great time in Sevilla, largely because the city itself is incredible. My program was good: the leaders were great and the other students offered lots of diverse personalities. The program had a ton of cool trips (to Lisbon, Granada, Cordoba and Morocco and other activities. A lot of the fun I had came from just going out with friends and socializing with Spaniards, some of whom became good friends.

ISA Madrid Review

November 16, 2012by: vtorrizo

Program: Study Abroad in Madrid, Spain with WorldStrides

5

ISA is a great program to use when studying abroad, regardless of the city you are staying in. The site is easy to access and navigate when you're looking for a program. At times, the program will be very affordable, but pay attention to how much it is compared to what you're paying at your home university. I highly recommend ISA. They are so helpful with everything! The only thing not included is airfare, so make sure you scout the internet for deals when planning your trip. Academics: I took two classes- Spanish 1 and European History, Culture & Politics (English). Professors at the program were very willing to help out their students and offer assistance. ISA did a great job sending out transcripts to your home university and other documents needed. Living Situation: 3 different options- Residencia (dorm-like)- This is what I did. I had my own room. There are about 10 other bedrooms filled with US and international students. There were 3 bathrooms, kitchen, washing machine and dining area. apartment- this is separate from the program, but ISA does offer assistance in finding external housing options. home-stay- If I could go back, I would have done this. So many of my friends did this option and said it was the best part of their experience. I recommend this!! Cultural Immersion: Madrid is a city of tourists so many question whether they'll be able to check out Spanish culture. However, this big city is full of it so you'll have no trouble finding something to do or learn about. Program Administration: ISA is great. They'll help with pre-application questions, the application process, and after. All programs have on-staff sites that assist you when you arrive and during your stay. Health and Safety: Like any other big city, Madrid is known for pick pockets. Be careful, especially with your phones. Social Life: Spanish nightlife is a big part of their culture--plenty of bars, nightclubs, restaurants.

Awesome Experience

November 11, 2012by: loveAmman
5

I loved my study abroad experience in Amman with ISA! Mohammad and Ghadeer (the program administrators) are very helpful and available to students. The excursions were also really fun and well planned. Overall, I felt like ISA provided great service so that students would not have to worry about many aspects of their study abroad experience and could enjoy their time fully. Academics: I really enjoyed the classes with the ISA instructors. The assigned coursework was enough to help us learn the material, but not so overwhelming as to keep us from having time to go out and engage in the culture. It was great to take Middle Eastern Studies courses from mainly Jordanian and Palestinian professors and get their perspective on the material. Also, it was great being immersed in my coursework daily and getting to live in the material. Living Situation: We lived in a huge, nice apartment in a very nice neighborhood in Amman. Our apartment had plenty of room with three living rooms and a nice kitchen! Additionally, we were right across the street from a Safeway store, so we were never far from groceries, etc. The bus picked up right by the Safeway, and the public bus stop was only a few minutes' walking distance from our apartment. Taxis also picked up on the main road near our apartment. Overall, I thought the location and quality of the apartment were awesome. Cultural Immersion: By living in Amman, we had plenty of opportunity to go out and immerse ourselves in the culture. Also, our teachers were great about taking us on trips to explore different areas of Amman and practice our Arabic. People are very friendly and willing to interact with you and make your experience worthwhile. Also, there are many opportunities like conversation exchanges to facilitate making local friends. I think that the only way that I would have benefited more from the experience would have been through a home stay, but I am happy with the other opportunities offered to me. Program Administration: Mohammad and Ghadeer were great program administrators. They were very willing to help us with anything in any aspect of my abroad experience. Ghadeer even came over to teach us to cook and have a girls' day at our apartment. They have an office on campus, and their door is always open for students to come by.

You Won't Know Until You Go

November 08, 2012by: Breanna Miele

Program: Study Abroad in Florence, Italy with WorldStrides

5

I honestly cannot praise ISA and the Florence program specifically enough. This experience changed my life in every way possible--but in the most positive ways, of course (as cheesy as that sounds). If you are on the fence about this program or are still unsure, all I can tell you is that of all the things Study Abroad Alumni say when they get back from a trip, the one thing they don't say is that they regret doing it. Academics: For the most part, the classes were a lot of fun and really interesting. There was just one professor I had that wasn't as engaging as she could have been. Living Situation: The location was amazing!! I was two minutes from Ponte Vecchio. I felt very safe in the apartment and the living conditions were fine. The only thing was that our toilet was in our shower (no joke)! That was a little difficult at times. Overall, it was a good apartment, though. Program Administration: The on-site staff is especially amazing!!! Health and Safety: I felt safe most of the time. Just beware of pick-pockets and be smart. Use common sense and you'll be just fine. Social Life: I met so many people this summer who became my friends for life, locals, people from surrounding countries, and Americans.

Firenze

November 08, 2012by: Karab

Program: Study Abroad in Florence, Italy with WorldStrides

5

I loved studying abroad in Florence, Italy through ISA. The staff was helpful and personable. When I had concerns they would talk them through with me and help me find a way to solve it. I was upset at first with how far away my homestay was from the main part of Florence. I had quite a long walk or had to ride the bus. That upset the American me who is used to having everything easy and was only looking for what a tourist looks for. However, the staff talked it through with me and I decided to stick with it. I am more than glad I did! My homestay mother made excellent traditional Italian, was very nice, and I began to feel like a local rather than a tourist. I had the privilege of interacting with local Italians rather than just other tourists. Florence is a wonderful, very beautiful town. I always had something great to eat, museum to visit, event to attend, and buildings to gaze at. It is not expensive to enter the many museums and basilicas around the town so do it! Just like anyplace in the world you should never walk alone at night and always be aware for pick pocketers since it is a touristy town! This should not scare you away from it as any major city or town is like that! As for the negative review about the classes at FUA. I took Cooking and Art/Architecture and LOVED it. There was barely any lecture in the cooking and I learned many tips that I use every day. That class made cooking so enjoyable and I can impress people with what I learned! The art/architecture class in phenomenal since I was studying in the famous "living museum." Instead of sitting around we saw ruins from the Romans/Etruscans, Medici palazzos, the Santa Croce Basilica, Botticelli's Birth of Venus and so much more. Definitely go! Health and Safety: Just like any tourist area you need to be careful and aware. Do not walk alone at night. If you are obviously drunk or wearing revealing clothing (both not very encouraged in Italy) you may get harassed. I feel like that is the way it is a lot of places though so do not let it scare you away. Just be smart!

Brava!

October 30, 2012by: Kimmy Keslin

Program: Study Abroad in Florence, Italy with WorldStrides

5

I can say that studying abroad in Florence, Italy was the best semester of my life - hands down. And it probably wouldn't have been the same without the help of the ISA staff. The on-site staff was always there willing to help without being too hands on and annoying. They gave you a sense of freedom on this new journey, yet you felt safe knowing you had a family away from home. You could have a wonderful time abroad without any worries. Health and Safety: I never felt unsafe walking through the streets of Florence. Even when walking home late at night, there was always a lighted way and people around. Nothing too sketchy.

Italia - Mamma Mia!!

October 30, 2012by: Lindsay

Program: Study Abroad in Florence, Italy with WorldStrides

5

Firenze, Italia, what more do I have to say? My semester abroad with ISA was travel-packed, exhausting and absolutely unforgettable. Not one of my 111 day trip was spent uneventful. From the streets of Florence, the waterfalls of Morocco, the Alps of Austria, the Tuscan sunsets, the festivals of Spain, the Guinness Ireland and Mt. Etna in Sicily, my trip was just that - one of a lifetime. My decision to study abroad in Italy with ISA completely shaped my experience. Starting with the application process and registration, to our arrival in Rome, ISA was helpful, friendly and supportive. Before you leave the U.S., the ISA program schedules your classes, registers your visa paperwork, arranges your housing and thoroughly prepares you for what you may encounter along the way. Throughout my time abroad, the ISA Florence team was extremely engaged with the students and tended to our every question and request. The team organized tours, day trips, cultural activities, overnight trips, soccer games, holiday events and outings. Without the help and support of ISA my time abroad may have been spent worrying, planning or desperately trying to emerge into Italian culture. ISA made it an easy transition and allowed more time for excitement. Everyday I spent in Italy, I learned something new, tried something new or did something new. Your time abroad is short, there is no time to waste!

Ciao!

October 29, 2012by: Jessica Phan

Program: Study Abroad in Florence, Italy with WorldStrides

4

My trip began in Rome, Italy where I met the other fifty students’ part of this summer program and had my orientation. ISA organized walking and bus tours for us and brought us to a group dinner. During my four-day stay in Rome I had the opportunity to see the Roman Ruins, the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, the Spanish Steps, the Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican museum. After orientation, ISA brought us all on a bus to Florence, Italy. They brought us all to our respective apartments and gave us our keys. I lived in an apartment across from Pitti Palace with eight other girls. There were three bedrooms with three girls per room each with a bathroom. The nine of us all shared the kitchen, the washer, and the TV. Yes, I only said washer. As I lived independently in a new country, I had to learn new customs. In Italy, dryers do not exist and everything gets hung dry off the balcony or on a line. Italy also does not serve drinks in restaurants with ice. There was plenty to get used to, but nothing to hold me back from having fun and exploring a new country. During my three weeks in Italy I took a Physics class at the Florence University of the Arts. The credits I earned there were transferable to my major here at TCNJ. I walked to my class five days a week and was in class for about two hours. There were twelve people in my class; therefore my professor was able to supplement some of our class meetings with museum trips and labs. My days in Florence were all structured similarly. I was lucky to have my class in the morning so after class I would walk to the open market with my new found friends to buy food for lunch and dinner. Since the refrigerator was small and since food is so fresh in the markets, we bought our food on a daily basis. I had so much fun cooking in the apartment with the other girls and experimenting with new types of pastas and vegetables. Every other weekday, the girls in my room and I took day trips around Italy. We chose cities that we about an hour to an hour and a half out of Florence and could be reached by train and/or bus. The train station was definitely intimidating at first and very confusing, but after our first trip we felt confident and continued travelling. The day trips that I went to include San Gimignano, Signa, Pisa, and Lucca. On the weekends we took farther trips. The first weekend I followed the excursion ISA provided and went to Lake Garda and Verona. They once again brought us on tours, however this time it was a beautiful boat tour and a walking tour respectively. On the second weekend my friends and I went to Venice by EuroRail, one of the fastest European trains. Finally, on the last weekend, my roommates and I stayed in Cinque Terre to hike the five villages and stayed overnight to enjoy the beach the following day. Although, I was nervous and scared at first, in the end I did not want to leave and now I wish I could go back. I can confidently say that if I were to go back to Florence, Italy I would be very comfortable and know where to go and who to go to in the event of an emergency. The ISA staff based in Florence was one of the most amazing groups of people I have ever met. They became like family to me during my stay, helping me out when I needed it, showing me where to go for the best foods and entertainment, even walking me to the post office to send a letter back home. I appreciated their help so much and not once did I feel that they were tired of helping and caring for all of us. What I have shared with you is just a recap of my experiences in Italy this past summer. This does not even begin to describe all the amazing sites I saw, all the interesting people I met, all the friendships I have made, and all the great food I ate. I was privileged to have the opportunity to study abroad and even have my parents visit me there, but with appropriate planning, anyone can go. I definitely encourage anyone who has even thought of studying abroad to go and explore. My experience is one that I will never forget. St. Augustine once said, “The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page.” After this amazing experience I can say that I have definitely turned some pages in my book and I cannot wait to continue doing so in the future. Academics: I loved my Physics professor. He made the class fun and enjoyable during the summer session. We took trips to local museums to supplement the lectures. Living Situation: Even in the apartment with 8 other girls, the apartment was spacious. The apartment was located in a very convenient spot in Florence. Cultural Immersion: ISA offered many ways in order to become culturally immersed, I only found it difficult to participate in all these activities while being there for only 3 weeks. Program Administration: The staff was fun, welcoming, and extremely helpful!

Fantastic Experience

October 29, 2012by: Cassy Slayton

Program: Study Abroad in San Jose, Costa Rica with WorldStrides

4

My host family was fantastic and the ISA program was very helpful. I learned so much from my classes and home stay. They also set up some weekend travel for us that was both fun and safe.

Life-changing experience

October 29, 2012by: arteta

Program: Study Abroad in Valencia, Spain with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad was a last minute decision for me. I was horrible at speaking Spanish and had promised my high school Spanish teacher that if she gave me a C in her class, I would study abroad in college. So she did. I did not do a lot of research but went to a school that was a strong supporter of ISA. I am so lucky that I went with this company and would not consider any other provider for my siblings and friends. The quality of ISA programs is very apparent from the second that you express interest in their until long after you have returned. You have full support at all times. Valencia is a big-little city with tons to do. The Spanish there is easy to understand, and the people are extremely helpful. During my time abroad I made friends that will last a lifetime, fell in love with the city and the Spanish culture, and left with a new sense of confidence and independence that can only be gained by stepping outside of your comfort zone and exploring the unknown. And now, I can confidently give myself an A+ in the Spanish language--this definitely took more than a semester though! You'll want to move back abroad after college too... just wait. Academics: My classes were challenging and prepared me well for everyday life in Spain. Upon returning to my university , I was at the top of all upper level Spanish classes that I took from that point on. Cultural Immersion: I almost never met English speakers outside of my program and feel like Valencia gives you a true representation of Spanish culture with very little influence from other countries. Program Administration: The staff is fantastic and goes out of their way to help their students immerse themselves into the culture and city through cultural excursions, advice on where to go and what to do and updates on events taking place in the city and other party of the country. Very supportive.

Molto Bene a Firenze!

October 29, 2012by: Angela Coburn

Program: Study Abroad in Florence, Italy with WorldStrides

5

I loved my ISA Study Abroad experience so much. The only bad part about my experience was my House mom, but I informed ISA of this throughout the trip and they did so much to help make it better for me. The staff was so helpful and friendly and genuinely excited about giving us an amazing experience. They planned so many things to get us acquainted and to make sure we were fully immersed in the culture in addition to making the transition a lot easier. My class was so interesting and I learned A LOT. The work was not difficult or intensive so I was still able to enjoy myself. The friends I made there I still talk to a year and a half later. We became like a family and I could not have asked for a better experience. I would recommend ISA to ANYONE and EVERYONE I know and I have continued to do so!!!!!

No Excuse. Go to Amman,Jordan

October 22, 2012by: FunNAmman
4

Remember people this is study abroad and you cannot expect everything to be perfect. When living in a foreign country you must put away the tendency to compare it to the US. Overall my experience in Amman was amazing!! This study abroad experience allowed me to dismiss all the negative stereotypes about the Middle East. The excursions and the classes were all worth while. The staff were really hands on. Mohammad invited us to his home to play video games and he even was there to listen to our individual personal problems when requested. Ghadeer was exceptional! She was so easy going and funny! My professors were really knowledgeable about their subject matter and class discussion was very interesting. The courses I took were Arabic 101 and Middle East and US History. The highlights of my trip were the excursions to Wadi Rum and Aqaba. Wadi Rum was amazing because we rode camels and stayed overnight with the Bedouins. Riding camels for at least an hour through the desert was an once-in-a-lifetime moment! The moment was so surreal because a year ago I never would have imagined me riding a camel. Once we arrived back to the camp after watching the sunset we had Bedouin prepared dinner. The food was great. We had dishes from lamb to hummus. Aqaba was amazing because it was my first time ever going snorkeling, scuba diving, and swimming in clear water, let alone the Red Sea! The Red Sea was like swimming in a salt-water fish tank, but with so much religious significance. If you were wondering this is the same sea that Moses crossed when he freed the Jews from Egypt. Both of these experiences together made my experience life changing and amazing. I plan on returning to Amman one day and I encourage everyone to study abroad to Amman, Jordan through ISA. If you want a life changing experience then ISA Jordan is the way to go. I am now my university's ISA global ambassador to promote studying abroad through ISA.

More than accommodating

October 22, 2012by: SHammond
4

My experience with ISA in Jordan was phenomenal. My only regret is not studying abroad for an entire year! ISA Jordan offers the perfect balance of program-arranged day and overnight excursions, as well as weekend cultural and language outings. Sometimes the excursions felt a little bit rushed (it’s hard not to when there’s so much to see!), but we were also given a lot of time to divert from the group and explore on our own. The optional cultural and language outings were always led by our amazing Arabic teacher, Balqees, who would often invite us to cafes for lunch and to teach us Arabic instead of sitting in the classroom and always reading from the book. Some of my best memories in Jordan are from the outings to museums and markets with Balqees. The small program size allows students to get away from the comfort of being only with American students while abroad and focus on language learning. If you’re willing to put in the time studying, you will surely improve a lot in your Arabic from this program! After having a very negative experience in the female-only university dormitory my first few nights in Jordan, ISA did everything they could to move me into a HUGE apartment in the city with three other girls. Our apartment had three living rooms, two bathrooms, two bedrooms, and a massive kitchen and was located a minute’s walk from the grocery store and the AAU bus stop. All of the ISA apartments during my semester abroad were close to good shopping areas and major roads, making it easy to find taxis any time of day. One of the drawbacks of this program is that Al-Ahliyya Amman University is located so far from the heart of the city. It is difficult to leave campus and go home if you have a few hours between classes. It also means that it takes about an hour bus ride to and from school each day, leaving little time on the weekdays to experience Amman during daylight. ISA was very helpful in allowing me to take a hybrid of courses with local students and courses with ISA students. I thoroughly enjoyed my Arab-Israeli Politics course with ISA, which allowed us to visit two Palestinian refugee camps in Amman. The courses I took with local students were mostly in English, but at times the professor would speak entirely in Arabic, something ISA warned me about prior to my semester abroad. Overall, I could not have chosen a better place to study abroad or a better program to study with. Both ISA in Austin and ISA in Amman are more than accommodating in addressing any concerns that may pop up and fixing any negative situations. ISA continues to ask me for feedback and ideas for improvement even though I have been back for almost five months now. Jordan is the perfect place for those interested in history, humanitarian efforts, geopolitics, and intensive language study. Health and Safety: Despite the occasional catcall or overt glaring (something you'll likely experience in any city of Amman's size or bigger), I felt just as safe in Jordan as I do living in the United States. Police are everywhere in Amman, making it the safest place in the Middle East and consistently one of the safest countries in the world. ISA is available 24/7 for any safety concerns. Social Life: There's always something to do in a city like Amman. Taxis are easy to find any time of day. Cafes are open almost all night and malls are open into late hours. There is an abundance of really nice movie theaters (which often gives you the advantage of seeing movies before they hit the screens in the States), video game hang outs, bowling alleys, and pool halls. There aren't too many clubs, but there are plenty of bars spread throughout the city. I particularly enjoyed Prego, a bar near Rainbow Street with a club-like atmosphere. The only two real clubs I got the chance to go to were G-Club and Switch 51 which were both really nice inside and offered ladies nights throughout the week. La Calle on Rainbow Street is a great place to meet with friends and provides alcohol. Jafra downtown offers a more traditional atmosphere and some of the best shisha you'll have in Jordan.

Best semester of my life!

October 09, 2012by: Anonymous

Program: Study Abroad in Sydney, Australia with WorldStrides

5

I had the best experience with TEAN. They helped me with everything to prepare for Australia and during my time in Sydney, as well. The housing was amazing and the Thailand trip through them was incredible. I also was able to correspond with UNSW very easily. They helped me make sure everything would transfer to my home university. I could not have asked for a better experience and I couldn't be happier that I went through TEAN.

ISA Barcelona

October 08, 2012by: vivaespana

Program: Study Abroad in Barcelona, Spain with WorldStrides

4

Program is a little disorganized in terms of excursions, but staff was friendly and helpful. Would recommend taking care of any academic issues BEFORE departure, since it may mess you up when you're trying to start classes (not necessarily the fault of ISA Barcelona, maybe ISA in general?). I didn't have any issues with the program; only true con I would give is that the program for Barcelona was huge and impersonal (since cliques form quickly with so many students)... would have liked a smaller program that offered same things. Academics: Courses and difficulty will vary; both campuses for international students were located within the city (not at Bellaterra where the locals attend class) and were easy to get to,. Staff made sure we knew the process for adding/dropping classes before they started. Living Situation: I was with a homestay. Locations and families can vary greatly (so include your preferences if you have any). My biggest concern was not having internet at my homestay, since that was an extra hassle I had to deal with. Cultural Immersion: I really enjoyed the tours and excursions put on by ISA, however they were not always the most organized! Buses were frequently late, cutting our day short, which was the main irritating aspect of trips. We never left without students if they were late to arrive, which I think was unfair for those of us who had shown up on time. However I would still take advantage of anything offered as it is all included in the program price. The tours within Barcelona were very good with informed, passionate guides. Excursions are a little structured, usually with a tour or activity, and then there is free time to explore on your own (although why always during siesta time when everything is closed?) Program Administration: ISA Barcelona office is located in the city center, and the staff is accessible after-hours if there is an emergency. The office had a lot of good resources (computers to use internet although it was unreliable, and you can print too; DVDs and books if you want to borrow something). I thought the staff was always happy to help if I had any issues, and they were friendly and made the effort to remember students' names which was nice.

Choosing TEAN was one of the best choices I made in planning my study abroad!

October 08, 2012by: Jane W

Program: Study Abroad in Dunedin, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

In my opinion, TEAN is an excellent choice in choosing a program. TEAN considers each and every student as an individual case. I was not just another applicant; I knew many of the employees on a personal level which was a great support system when I was in New Zealand. They are with you for the whole experience, not just the application process. During the planning of my study abroad, they were wonderful at guiding me through the process of choosing classes, applying for a visa, and the many other tasks that are involved in the planning process. The Fiji excursion was an amazing experience, as well as, the orientation in Auckland, NZ. Both of these trips gave our group an opportunity to really get to know each other. Therefore, when we split up for our individual universities, we already had some friends on our campus starting out. Once the semester started, TEAN was still a support. Near mid-semester, a few of the TEAN employees and some of the Otago TEANers got together for a day trip to Oamaru. During this excursion, we also checked out a beach, saw yellow-eyed penguins, Moeraki Boulders, etc. It was an amazing day! Overall, TEAN is great. They value quality in their work and really care about their students. I never felt without support while in NZ and I thank TEAN for that. Academics: The academics at University of Otago were excellent. I was able to transfer every class back to my home university for credit. In addition, each class had a New Zealand perspective to it which was really interesting. Living Situation: I lived with Kiwis and other international students. It was a great pool of cultures and offers an opportunity to make friends right away when you arrive. Program Administration: TEAN was an amazing support system. Arriving in a foreign, unfamiliar place at first can be overwhelming. Whenever I had questions or problems during my stay, TEAN was right there with me to help me through whatever conflicts arose.

TEAN is Terrific

October 04, 2012by: dkatz

Program: Study Abroad in Shanghai, China with WorldStrides

5

Everything about The Education Abroad Network's study abroad program in Shanghai was fantastic. They are there every step of the way to ensure a smooth transition into what is, for most people, an entirely new way of living. The apartments they provide are extremely nice, as well as the monthly dinners at renowned restaurants they treat us to. My favorite part of the whole trip had to be the TEAN-sponsored trip to Inner Mongolia, where we live in the desert for 3 days, ride camels, and finish off the excursion with a group bonfire. If I could do this all over again, I wouldn't have to think twice before choosing TEAN.

Amazing experience in Chiang Mai

September 30, 2012by: lburz

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

I had an absolutely amazing time during my summer study abroad in Chiang Mai, Thailand. It was transformative, I not only got to spend time in another country, but I felt like I was immersed in that country's culture through dorm life. We went on an excursion to the border of Myanmar that taught me so much about the region and expanded my views on a lot of things. I have no complaints about my experience and had a ton of fun!

My study abroad experience was pretty much as close to perfect as you can get!

September 25, 2012by: bmattie

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad was the most unforgettable, adventurous odyssey that I could've imagined. It was the most rewarding, incredible and FUN experience of my life and I wish every single day I could do it all over again. One semester wasn't enough for me, so I extended my stay and ended up doing a full academic year! I learned a multitude of things not only in the classes I took, bu mostly outside the classroom while traveling and just going about my daily routine and life there. I made a home for myself in Australia and I really fell in love with their culture and I shared that love and passion for the country with the best people I've ever met, some Australians who I still keep in touch with and American students in my program as well who are now some of my best friends back here in the States. We talk all the time about our memories and how much we miss it abroad, but also plan the next time we're going to get to go back together in the near future! Till then, I'll reminisce with my overload of photos and video footage :)

TEAN Univ. of Wollongong

September 07, 2012by: Nicole C

Program: Study Abroad at University of Sydney with WorldStrides

5

TEAN was a great program to study abroad with. They were truly invested in making sure that we all got the most out of our time abroad. They were very helpful during the application process, everything from VISA's to flights. They also had a lot of organized programs to help immerse students in the culture. Sydney Orientation and spring break trips were just a few of the programs TEAN offered. TEAN really helped make the time that I was abroad the best of my life! I would highly recommend them to anyone looking to study abroad, especially in Australia.

Study Abroad in Australia through TEAN!!!!

August 30, 2012by: asolli

Program: Study Abroad at University of Sydney with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad through TEAN was one of the best decisions I ever made. The TEAN staff made sure we all had a smooth transition into our new home and was readily available if we had any problems or questions. Our housing was amazing... I lived in Bondi Junction and could see the Opera House and Sydney Harbor Bridge out my kitchen window. TEAN organizes pre-semester and mid-semester trips which I took advantage of and recommend them to everyone! The pre-semester trip was to Cairns (The Great Barrier Reef) and the mid-semester trip was to either New Zealand or Thailand. I went to Thailand and had one of the best weeks of my life, but I also heard great things about the New Zealand trip. You meet so many new people that you will keep in touch with and have so many opportunities while you are abroad. If I could study abroad in Australia again, I would go through TEAN in a second.

The best five months of my life!

August 28, 2012by: Leah Castrovince

Program: Study Abroad at University of Sydney with WorldStrides

5

Studying with The Education Abroad Network was easily one of the best decisions I've made throughout my time at college. For me, studying in Australia has become synonymous with The Education Abroad Network. I couldn't imagine going with anyone else. The staff is incredible and so helpful. They are so personable and are truly there to make sure you have the time of your life. The trips TEAN sets up are jam packed with fun activities I couldn't have imagined myself doing on my own. If I could study abroad again, I wouldn't change a thing. And if I could do it all again tomorrow, I would. It is safe to say that these five months were the best of my life and I owe it all to TEAN!! Academics: The University of Sydney is one of the most prestigious schools in all of Australia. It was a beautiful campus and the classes were informative and extremely interesting! The professors were very helpful and nice as well. Living Situation: The living situation TEAN provides for students is incredible. We lived in a serviced apartment that had two balconies from which you could see the Opera House and Bondi Beach on either of them. Whenever Australians came into our apartment they were always blown away by where we lived! The TEAN staff was also incredibly helpful with the move in process and stayed in touch with us making sure everything was going well in the apartment. Cultural Immersion: TEAN sets up an orientation program upon arrival in Sydney where were are immersed in the culture straight away. We had an Amazing Race around Sydney on one of the days. This forced us to get used to the public transportation and find our way around the city. It was a great way to start off the trip and we immediately felt comfortable with the city.

A life-changing semester

August 27, 2012by: michelle1010

Program: Study Abroad in Auckland, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

After nearly 5 months abroad, I can officially say I am in love with New Zealand, and I only have The Education Abroad Network to thank for that. I spent everyday with friends that I made in my living area, and who continue to be my best friends back here in the states. I loved my classes, and the beautiful walk I had to get there. TEAN was there for me every step of the way - from planning my trip to planning activities for me in Auckland. I wouldn't change anything about my semester, and would do it again in a heartbeat.

Studying abroad with TEAN was the right choice!

August 27, 2012by: Taylor O'Donnell

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

I would describe my study abroad experience as everything I wanted it to be. It was scary, exciting, fun beyond belief, and all around incredible. Study abroad was a life-changing experience for me, and I feel so privileged to have had this experience with TEAN. It was a ton of work applying and preparing, but it was the most rewarding and satisfying decision I have ever made. Compared to what I have heard from friends who studied abroad through different programs, I would say that TEAN includes much more in their program. Some programs do not offer housing options or excursions, or even orientations. To me, these were the best aspects of studying abroad with TEAN. I was able to see Sydney, Melbourne, and the South Island of New Zealand through TEAN’s orientation and optional excursions, and they were all highlights of my time abroad. Our housing was unbelievable, and there was always someone to contact if you had any questions. TEAN made studying abroad so easy. Living Situation: I lived in the Meriton Serviced Apartments in Broadbeach. It was the beach housing option of living on the Gold Coast, and it was too good to be true! The apartments were beautiful. We had 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a kitchen, living room, and a balcony. There was an indoor and outdoor pool, spas, and a sauna. I would 100% recommend this housing option over living on campus. The commute to school was totally worth it. Cultural Immersion: One thing that I would say really differentiates TEAN, especially studying in Australia, is that they really want you to become familiar with the country and to make friends aside from the other Americans studying with you. During our orientation, they taught us about the people, their culture, attending university, etc. It was very helpful. Program Administration: Everyone working for TEAN was so easy-going and understanding. They led me step by step on applying and getting accepted to a school abroad. I never had a problem, but they were always available and willing to help. As soon as I got off the plane in Sydney, they were there waiting and smiling, ready to greet us. It was very comforting. That whole orientation in Sydney was amazing because the staff made it that way. I wasn’t homesick once!

Studying abroad with TEAN was the right choice!

August 27, 2012by: Taylor O'Donnell

Program: Study Abroad at University of Sydney with WorldStrides

5

I would describe my study abroad experience as everything I wanted it to be. It was scary, exciting, fun beyond belief, and all around incredible. Study abroad was a life-changing experience for me, and I feel so privileged to have had this experience with TEAN. It was a ton of work applying and preparing, but it was the most rewarding and satisfying decision I have ever made. Compared to what I have heard from friends who studied abroad through different programs, I would say that TEAN includes much more in their program. Some programs do not offer housing options or excursions, or even orientations. To me, these were the best aspects of studying abroad with TEAN. I was able to see Sydney, Melbourne, and the South Island of New Zealand through TEAN’s orientation and optional excursions, and they were all highlights of my time abroad. Our housing was unbelievable, and there was always someone to contact if you had any questions. TEAN made studying abroad so easy. Living Situation: I lived in the Meriton Serviced Apartments in Broadbeach. It was the beach housing option of living on the Gold Coast, and it was too good to be true! The apartments were beautiful. We had 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a kitchen, living room, and a balcony. There was an indoor and outdoor pool, spas, and a sauna. I would 100% recommend this housing option over living on campus. The commute to school was totally worth it. Cultural Immersion: One thing that I would say really differentiates TEAN, especially studying in Australia, is that they really want you to become familiar with the country and to make friends aside from the other Americans studying with you. During our orientation, they taught us about the people, their culture, attending university, etc. It was very helpful. Program Administration: Everyone working for TEAN was so easy-going and understanding. They led me step by step on applying and getting accepted to a school abroad. I never had a problem, but they were always available and willing to help. As soon as I got off the plane in Sydney, they were there waiting and smiling, ready to greet us. It was very comforting. That whole orientation in Sydney was amazing because the staff made it that way. I wasn’t homesick once!

An excellent experience I wish I could relive.

August 26, 2012by: PillWixler

Program: Study Abroad in Melbourne, Australia with WorldStrides

5

It's hard to overstate my satisfaction with my time abroad and I believe that The Education Abroad Network was a big part of that. They helped me throughout my study abroad journey, from my application process to my travel plans after my semester had ended. If not for TEAN I probably would have found a way to screw up my enrollment and I certainly would have had much more work to do in that regard. They also provide options for traveling with options for stopovers on your way to and from Australia. Once you arrive in Australia, TEAN gives you a three-day orientation in Sydney for a preview of what your semester will be like. But orientation isn't just boring talks, TEAN also has plenty of excellent activities planned, but not to the point where it feels like a school field trip; you have plenty of freedom to do what you like. For me orientation was a great time and provided an excellent start to my time in Australia. After orientation, my TEAN Resident Director was waiting for me and the rest of the TEAN-Melbourne students at the airport with transportation for us to our new home for the nest few months. On the ride there, we were thoroughly briefed on resources provided by our RD and how to take advantage of them if needed. RMIT also provides its own orientation for international students which is redundant, but a good opportunity to meet people from other countries. They also include an optional dinner cruise at the end of orientation which I recommend. Throughout the semester TEAN provides cultural activities to encourage you to go out and experience life in Melbourne as the locals do. I participated in all and had a great time with each. For our three activities we took a guided yet non-touristy walking tour of the city early on to get us acquainted, we went to see a famous Australian comedian perform at the Melbourne Comedy Festival, and we went to see an Australian Rules Football game. In the middle of the semester, TEAN also has optional excursions they plan throughout the semester where you can meet TEAN participants studying in other parts of Australia or meet up with friends you made during orientation. There are also week-long excursions offered during the semester break. The semester I was abroad, there was an excursion to New Zealand's South Island and one to Thailand offered. RMIT's semester break is a little weird, starting and ending in the middle of the week, so there is the potential for scheduling conflicts with class and your travels for the semester break excursion, but several of the TEAN students at RMIT with me that semester where able to participate with no problems at all. My classes during the semester were relatively easy, especially compared to my previous semesters' workloads. I had plenty of time to relax, explore Melbourne and the surrounding area, and travel. The only work I had outside of class were two lab reports and one research project. I had two midterms and a final exam for all four of my courses. Melbourne itself is a great place to live. There is no lack of things to do and if you wanted to, you could probably go out every night and never visit the same place twice. Public transportation is run very well and easy to use, which makes it very easy to visit the suburbs of Melbourne. There are also tons of great restaurants in the city offering a broad spectrum of cuisines from around the world. I could go on and on about everything I did, but I tried to keep it short so you didn't stop reading halfway through. If you still want more detail about the opportunities provided by TEAN and RMIT, I kept a blog that I think provides a much more thorough review here: http://theantipode.tumblr.com/ Academics: I took all elective so class work was never to demanding and all credit transferred to my home university. All academic facilities I used were great and RMIT offers a great selection of classes, though several are not offered every semester which why I can't rate academics an A+ Living Situation: TEAN provided excellent living an arrangement. i lived in a serviced apartment. The apartment was excellent and provided a great view of the city. Location was also fantastic as it was right in the heart of the city and everything I needed was within short walking distance Cultural Immersion: Opportunities for cultural immersion are everywhere. How much immersion you get really just depends on how much effort you want to put into it. If you are looking for more immersion, I believe a good suggestion would be to NOT take any courses about Australia that are aimed at international students. That might seem backward, but there wont be any Australian's taking that class, it'll be mostly other American students. Program Administration: TEAN does an outstanding job helping you with whatever problems you might have. They are incredibly quick to respond to your problems and get you on the right track. They also take care of a lot of work when it comes to your enrollment abroad which really helps make the process less stressful. TEAN also provides opportunities you otherwise might not have during your time abroad such as their pre-semester orientation, excursions, and semester cultural activities. Health and Safety: Trouble will find you if you go looking for it, but otherwise Melbourne was incredibly safe and I personally never had any problems.

The offerings and organization that TEAN provides on their program makes for the greatest abroad experience anyone could ask for.

August 26, 2012by: kygoldhoff

Program: Study Abroad in Sydney, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Trying to review a 5 month program in just a few words is impossible. I could not be happier that I chose to study in Sydney with TEAN. The pretrip to Cairns, the orientation, the spring break trip to Thailand, and all of the little things they provide while in Sydney truly make this program one of a kind. Thailand was definitely my favorite part and I would recommend this trip to anyone. They ensure that you are going to make friends, be immersed in the culture, and have a truly unbelievable experience. The staff from TEAN both in the states and in Australia were always there for us and so helpful, you really feel as though you are getting your money's worth. I loved my study abroad experience with TEAN and could not imagine doing those 5 months any other way. Living Situation: The Tiffany Tower serviced apartments in Bondi Junction is by far the best accommodations they offer. The apartments are so nice and everything comes with them when you get there. They are right on top of the Bondi Junction train and bus station and right next to a huge Westfield that has anything you could ever need. It is a short 7-10 minute bus ride from the amazing Bondi Beach and only a 10 minute train ride into the center of the city. Needless to say the location is awesome! Cultural Immersion: The new program they added this year where they gave us 3 tickets to different cultural events was great. We got to see a concert at the opera house, a show put on by Cate Blanchett's theater company, and the ANZAC day rugby league match. This was such a good addition and really helped to have cultural experiences we may not have had otherwise. Social Life: I had the privilege of making some really close Australian friends who helped make my social experience in Sydney even better. Getting to go to their favorite bars and their friends parties was an experience I would not have had otherwise.

Most Amazing Experience of my Life.

August 14, 2012by: [email protected]

Program: Study Abroad in Wellington, New Zealand

5

The Education Abroad Network (TEAN) is the best study abroad program there is. It was a completely life changing experience. I got to travel to places I could never imagine going to and meet people from all over the world and our own country. I wouldn't have picked another program; the staff was so helpful, nice, and totally fun! I studied in New Zealand and I was able to travel around New Zealand as well as attend trips to Fiji and Thailand which TEAN had organized. TEAN makes everything so easy, they plan everything out and you just show up and have an amazing time! This is a once in a lifetime opportunity and you're crazy if you don't take the opportunity! I did more growing up in the last 5 months of my life than I have my whole time in college. Over the five months I spent in New Zealand I fell in love with the country and the people! Because of my time spent in New Zealand, it will always be a second home to me and hold a special place in my heart. I did things I never imagined I'd get the opportunity to. I made friends that I will keep for the rest of my life. It's not your typical studying experience when you go abroad and TEAN knows how to make it worth every penny and make it the best experience possible! I was really nervous and scared before I left for my time abroad but that feeling left when I arrived and met the other TEAN program students as well as the staff. We did fun activities and got to "hangout" all day so that there wasn't even time to feel nervous or homesick. TEAN helped immerse us into the new culture and country really well. I wasn't home sick at all during my five months abroad. I don't regret spending a single dime on this program nor my time abroad. I strongly recommend it to everyone!

The Best of the Best!

July 27, 2012by: ljones23

Program: Study Abroad at University of Sydney with WorldStrides

5

From the very beginning, before I even paid any money, TEAN was the most helpful. They answered all my questions, addressed all my concerns and did it all professionally and in a timely manner. They truly care about their students and make sure they get the most out of their study abroad. You create a bond with the staff from the very get go, and continue to contact them even after you arrive home. They provide everything you need to have a successful experience. They take care of every detail. They are ready and waiting for you to arrive in your chosen city. With so much experience they know what works and what doesn't and how to get the most out of whatever comes along. TEAN is worth every penny, for what they provide you should be spending twice as much. Every aspect of their service is top notch. From the best locations to the best staff and everything in between. I would recommend TEAN to anybody, twice over! Living Situation: I had the best view of downtown Sydney in Bondi Junction. Many Australians said they have never seen a view like we had. I lived in a hotel for five months, enough said. Cultural Immersion: I have such newfound appreciation for people's culture, especially the Australian culture. This whole experience made me want to learn more and visit more places, to be more adventurous. TEAN made everything so easy. Program Administration: I was never alone. At any time of the day or night I could email my correspondent. They even called me on the phone if they couldn't get ahold of me through the web. Whatever question or concern I had they had an answer and a solution. They take pride in how well they know their students and it really showed. They want the best experience for everyone. They're truly the best out there! Health and Safety: Never even questioned my mind, it's so safe Social Life: Never a dull moment in Sydney. Everything is so accessible and adventurous.

They make the experience very personal...

July 16, 2012by: islandicon

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

4

They make the experience very personal and are willing to help with absolutely anything. Having a Resident Director in each host city was helpful because they could provide info for each specific city.

TEAN to me is the best program to go through if you are studying abroad in Australia.

July 16, 2012by: peakclient

Program: Study Abroad at University of Sydney with WorldStrides

5

TEAN to me is the best program to go through if you are studying abroad in Australia. They take care of all the little things that you don't think of. They are very quick to respond to questions and concerns. I have no negative feedback for the program. It was everything and more as to what I expected my experience in Australia to be.

Overall, I really loved my experience in Australia with TEAN.

July 16, 2012by: milesping

Program: Study Abroad in Sydney, Australia with WorldStrides

5

I really believe the ease of the TEAN program is the best part. Ease is always worth the money in my opinion. I heard stories from other study abroad kids and I'm so happy I never had to deal with internet issues or directly working with the UNSW study abroad office. Overall, I really loved my experience in Australia with TEAN. I would highly recommend this program over others.

TEAN provided so much more than I could have found/done on my own.

July 16, 2012by: eastdriver

Program: Study Abroad in Sydney, Australia with WorldStrides

5

TEAN provided so much more than I could have found/done on my own. The housing TEAN provided I'm sure is worth what we paid alone! Yet the price included all the orientation events, tuition, and many other little amenities along the way.

TEAN is a great value

July 13, 2012by: navywth

Program: Study Abroad in Wellington, New Zealand

4

I think that TEAN is a great value because they really helped with the little things. Peace of mind is a priceless commodity when in a foreign country.

TEAN was really there every step of the way

July 13, 2012by: mauvebrb

Program: Study Abroad in Wellington, New Zealand

4

TEAN was really there every step of the way and included a lot for the students to get to know each other so they weren't just thrown into a foreign country with no back up. Everything TEAN did for me and the rest of the students was amazing. The orientation leaders were very open and personable to put everyone at ease, the trips and activities were all times I'll never forget and it was with people I'll always remember.

I LOVED TEAN! I think you guys did a great job...

July 13, 2012by: lilacleet

Program: Study Abroad in Wellington, New Zealand

5

I LOVED TEAN! I think you guys did a great job at making us feel comfortable. I never felt alone because we were able to get to know our group and our advisors before we got to our campuses. I didn't feel like I was lost in a big group of people. I feel that TEAN helped us really build relationships.

TEAN was amazing!!!

July 13, 2012by: Katie Hammer

Program: Study Abroad in Auckland, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

TEAN was amazing!!! Such a great program that really helped me feel at home even though I was on the other side of the world. Thank you heaps!!!

I'm having Australia Study Abroad Withdrawals

May 14, 2012by: Anonymous

Program: Study Abroad in Sydney, Australia with WorldStrides

4

The Education Abroad Network was absolutely amazing. I was told by a friend that your living situation is very important, and they were absolutely correct! I was 15 minutes from both the most popular beach in Australia and downtown Sydney. I literally felt at home in Sydney because I tried almost everything Sydney had to offer in my time there, and the only regret I have is leaving! The people at TEAN helped me out so much and made everything very easy for me. Definitely check their programs out because you will not regret it! It will be one of the best experiences of your life! Guarenteed

ISA was my first choice when I started looking for study abroad programs and I will never regret going aborad with ISA. I was the best decision that i could have ever made! The overall program has and over the top organization!

May 07, 2012by: Glenda

Program: Study Abroad in Valencia, Spain with WorldStrides

5

ISA was my first choice when I started looking for study abroad programs and I will never regret going abroad with ISA. I was the best decision that i could have ever made! The overall program has and over the top organization!

Living the dream for 4 months!

April 29, 2012by: Maren Kalland

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

When I boarded the plane to my pre-semester trip in Fiji, I had no idea what the next four months had in store for me. I am happy to say those months are filled with memories and friendships I will have for the rest of my life! TEAN took care of us from the get-go. Orientation in Sydney was incredible - we climbed the Harbour Bridge, went on a dinner cruise and got very familiar with the city. Once we arrived in the Gold Coast, there were plenty of activities organized by TEAN for us to take part in that helped us get acclimated to our new home. The Gold Coast was phenomenal! Bond University is a beautiful campus, about a 20-minute bus ride away from my apartment. Half of the student body is Australian, which meant I was able to meet people from all over the world! We stayed in fully furnished apartments within walking distance from the beach, lots of restaurants, shopping and a great nightlife! Our farewell dinner was one of the most memorable parts of the trip. I met people who went with programs other than TEAN and I was surprised how little they received during their time abroad. I definitely think TEAN gives the best experience for the price. The TEAN staff was SO helpful before, during, and after my experience abroad. They answered all my silly questions with a smile on their face and were so kind during my transition to Aussie land! My experience started and ended with TEAN. Thanks to them, I had the best four months of my life in a home away from home. If I were given the opportunity to do it again, I’d do it the exact same way…with TEAN! Health and Safety: The apartment building had a security guard on duty 24/7 Social Life: The area we stayed in was a huge hot-spot

The Most Amazing Semester!!!

April 26, 2012by: Megan Kepler

Program: Study Abroad at University of Sydney with WorldStrides

5

You will not find a company that cares more about your international experience then The Education Abroad Network. I have never felt more at ease when entering a country. They make the entire experience as easy as possible and so much fun!!! The orientation was such an awesome part too!! We climbed the Sydney Harbor Bridge, visited a petting zoo, and so much more!! Having an orientation was really helpful because they explained to you a little bit about the country, what to expect and gave you a chance to ease into it all instead of being dumped in a country and told good luck!! It also gave you an opportunity to meet other students on the trip and even meet your roommates!!! The other awesome thing they do is offer you a chance to do a pre semester trip!! I would definitely recommend that as 95% of people do this!! It’s a great way to explore a part of the country and do so many incredible activities!! The east cost trip was such a great time!! You should definitely go with TEAN and even looking back, I wouldn’t go with anyone else!!!

Awesome experience!

April 22, 2012by: Andrew Lovitt

Program: Study Abroad at University of Sydney with WorldStrides

5

I am a strong advocate for studying abroad because it truly changed my perception of other cultures. Studying abroad is an excellent way to connect with other cultures and experience different perspectives. My study abroad experience was as exciting as it was enlightening. The knowledge I gleaned from living in Australia for nearly 5 months is invaluable. My educational experience really occurred when I left the classroom and immersed myself into the culture. TEAN was organized and did an outstanding job in discovering great deals, providing unique opportunities, and arranging thrilling activities. The week I spent in Cairns and Byron Bay cannot be replicated. I met many life-long friends and shared many unforgettable moments. I strongly recommend participating in all of the activities during orientation week and traveling on a pre-semester excursion. One thing that separates TEAN from pursuing an exchange program is the bonding that occurs during orientation and pre-semester excursions. I can honestly say without TEAN, I would not have made many, if any, friends while abroad. I recommend taking classes that are interesting and intellectually stimulating. I am majoring in political science and philosophy, but I took classes in anthropology, history, and politics. The politics class was very interesting; as the only American in my tutorial, I was able to offer a unique perspective to others. I lived in Bondi Junction in the Meriton. The location was excellent, and the living accommodations were superb. Ultimately, I found the TEAN staff to be very knowledgeable and helpful. I highly recommend this program!

No regrets!

March 28, 2012by: Julie Kochan

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad in Dunedin New Zealand with TEAN was the absolute best experience of my life. The TEAN staff helped so much with both my pre-departure worries as well as so many things while I was away such as arranging my bedding pack and shuttles from the airport. They also provided a lot of great excursions to help with the new culture like spending an amazing week in Auckland seeing museums, zorbing and rafting and taking us to an All Blacks vs Fiji rugby game. Thanks to the great service from TEAN I hardly felt homesick, and always felt safe and looked out for. I wouldn't regret a thing!

The best experience of my young life

March 26, 2012by: Beth

Program: Study Abroad in Auckland, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

Looking back on my trip, I now wonder why I was so scared to embark on my study abroad journey. TEAN calmed my nerves before I left and assured me in every way that could by answering so many of my questions and concerns. I am so thankful that I chose TEAN because they handled all the logistics of studying abroad for me- all I had to do was complete the paperwork in a timely manner. Going to Fiji for the pre-trip was amazing, not only because it was free, but because I developed bonds with new friends which I will always have. It was a beautiful country and the culture there was incredible. It was an unforgettable experience and I was ecstatic to go to NZ and continue the journey. TEAN's program leaders who joined us on our expedition were very knowledgeable and a ton of fun to travel along with. The orientation in Auckland, NZ was awesome and we did extreme activities like canyoning (repelling down waterfalls), cultural learning about the Maori, and heaps of exploring the beautiful city. I am so thankful that I chose TEAN because they were so helpful in the application process and continued to be helpful throughout my entire time in New Zealand. If I had to go back in time, I would chose definitely TEAN again.

The Perfect Mix of Support and Freedom

March 23, 2012by: Shelby Malone

Program: Study Abroad in Wellington, New Zealand

5

New Zealand itself is an absolutely amazing and magical place on it's own, but under the expert guidance of the Education Abroad Network, I was able to jump right into experiencing all the fun and excitement that Wellington had to offer. The pre-semester trip to Fiji was the perfect way to relax and get to know fellow students in the program before the 5 day, adrenaline packed, orientation in Auckland. I still can't believe all the things we were able to do in such a short amount of time, from playing rugby on the beach, hiking to waterfalls, zorbing, and white water rafting, to listening to Maori legends in the middle of the rainforest. It was awesome! When I finally got to Wellington, everything was completely set up for me to begin living and exploring. If you don't want to have to worry about all the little details, but also want the freedom to do what you want, the Education Abroad Network is the program for you. Living Situation: I was in a house with a huge window that overlooked the breathtaking view of the harbor and the mountains. I was a 5 minute walk from class and the Botanic Gardens across the street were the perfect place for an afternoon walk.

A great program that really throws you right into the middle of a whole new culture.

March 23, 2012by: kswren

Program: Study Abroad in Wellington, New Zealand

5

The Education Abroad Network was the perfect fit for me! The advisers were there every step of the way while I struggled to get my paperwork all in order and push up my GPA. Once I was fully accepted they stepped up even more until I was on the plane ready for my four month adventure. This program though was not hand holding in the least bit. I wanted to experience my travels myself and I was able to do that with TEAN. They included a pre-semester trip to Fiji, which was an amazing opportunity to see small villages and get to be lazy on a sunny beach, but also once we were in the country (I went to New Zealand) they pushed for me to step out of our comfort zones and get into the culture. A five day orientation got me used to the lifestyle before I went out on my own. TEAN was always there to check in though in case I needed something and held small luncheons and dinners for the group to get together again. My best choice of the entire trip was The Education Abroad Network. Health and Safety: Never felt unsafe within the city or camping. I hitch-hiked a bunch as well and never ran into an issue. Social Life: Kiwis LOVE to talk people out. Always accept it'll be a good time!

Fun in Australia

March 17, 2012by: anne

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

This program is what made my study abroad experience so successful! I loved my time in Australia and learned so much from it! The program provides a lot of support including providing amazing housing, a fun and useful orientation in Sydney, and planning fun day activities! Australia is a great place to study abroad because of the friendly people, fun activities, and new experiences available! I would recommend it to anyone who wants to study abroad in a unique and beautiful country!

No other program

March 16, 2012by: Scudder

Program: Study Abroad in Wellington, New Zealand

5

Before choosing The Education Aboard Network to go through I was looking at a number of different other programs. However, I knew the minute I emailed the office inquiring about which country I should study in and what city would best fit me, TEAN and their representatives responded immediately with detailed information. The people who work at TEAN have been to all of the Universities and countries and will help you through any questions you have. They help you through every step of the process, including making sure you get settled in once you arrive. TEAN's unique 4 day pre trip to Fiji allows you to make friends before arriving so you know people. By the end of my stay in New Zealand all of the kids who went through TEAN with me I considered almost like a family. TEAN looks after their own and will take very good care of anyone who is a part of the team. I highly encourage kids to go through TEAN if looking for an amazing experience.

An Unforgettable Semester

February 29, 2012by: Katie

Program: Study Abroad in Auckland, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

I am so happy with my decision to study abroad with TEAN. They really made sure I had the best semester in New Zealand! The best part about the program was that they handled all of the logistics (like getting registered for school, paying rent, etc) so I had more time to enjoy the fun things! Their pre-semester trips are definitely worthwhile, for they set you up with some of the coolest people from all over the U.S. I went on the trip to Fiji and though it was only a few days, I made friends that I will keep my entire life. The housing they provided was amazing also--I lived in flats with international students, Americans, and also locals! It was so diverse and I really got to know so many different cultures, along with some locals Kiwis. Overall, TEAN definitely made my semester hassle-free, and provided some great opportunities for adventure.

Best five months of my life!

February 17, 2012by: elyanag

Program: Study Abroad in Brisbane, Australia with WorldStrides

5

I left for Brisbane, Australia just about a year ago and when I think back on my experience I just smile and then want to cry because I miss it so much. I wouldn't have had such an amazing time without The Education Abroad Network. They offered so many opportunities ranging from coffee dates, to BBQs, to AFL games, to an orientation, to mid-semester break trips. The people I met, the opportunities I got, the experience I had, I owe it all to TEAN! It was truly the best five months of my life and I just want to go back now! Academics: The classes I took were really interesting and the course load was about equal or even a little less than in the United States so I enjoyed going to class. Living Situation: TEAN set me up with an apartment living with 3 other American students. It couldn't have been any better. I loved my roommates and the apartment was very homey which made me feel comfortable immediately. Cultural Immersion: I joined an intramural soccer team with other people from Australia and studying abroad and it was really awesome! My classes were mostly Australian students so that was a great way to meet people as well. Program Administration: Very helpful and organized whenever I needed help or had questions. Health and Safety: I always felt safe walking around the city and my apartment area.

Opportunity of a Lifetime!

February 13, 2012by: Amanda Atchue

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Since I have returned from Australia, the first question I always get from family and friends is, “So, how was it!?” My answer is simply, “The best four months of my life”. To fully explain all of the amazing things about studying abroad would take hours. Different aspects of my trip, however, do stand out in my mind. These parts would be the unique individuals I encountered and made life long friendships with, the laid back Australian culture, the quality of accommodations, and the strong academics of Bond University. I must say that I do not think I would have had as positive of an experience if I did not choose TEAN as my provider. TEAN offers great trips that encourage bonding with fellow students, top-notch accommodations in order to experience the true culture of the area, thoughtful choices for roommate pairing based on a personal survey, and always transportation to and from the airport to eliminate stresses on students in unfamiliar places. The challenging academics at Bond University allowed me to flourish as a student. I am a Psychology and Justice Studies Dual Major and I took classes toward both my majors as well as a general requirement. I recommend taking a class within the major instead of all electives because it allows you to see previously learned information from a different perspective. Taking “Crime and Deviance in Australia” allowed me to apply prior knowledge about crime to a different part of the world and acknowledge the different problems in different countries. TEAN organized excursions made the trip feel less like a program and more like a family. The Fiji trip to start off the semester far surpassed my expectations. I especially liked this opportunity because it allowed everyone to open up and feel comfortable with each other. Little did we all know, these people would turn into our second family. We all had similar interests and were eager to make the best experience out of this once in a lifetime opportunity, with no time to waste. From September to December I felt like I was living in paradise. I lived in the Meriton Apartments at Broadbeach which I would 100% recommend. Living just a block from the beach and surrounded by shops, restaurants, and nightlife, one may not think it could get any better. But it did. Having two pools and two hot tubs, a gym right downstairs, and a cleaning service every Saturday made the accommodations more than I could ever have asked for. And lets not forget about school, there was conveniently located public transportation right next to the Meriton that would take us to Bond Uni in about fifteen minutes. The TEAN Orientation was jam packed with exciting things to do that allowed us to explore all around Sydney. Between climbing the Sydney Harbor Bridge, seeing breathtaking views from the coastal walk to Bondi Beach, and landing at the Opera House at the end of the Amazing Race, I have memories that will never fade. My favorite part of Orientation was the Amazing Race. It forced us to get out of our comfort zone in a foreign place, talk to people, find our way around, use all different types of transportation we were not use to, bond as a team, and unfortunately, try Vegemite. The TEAN staff was helpful from the start. From the moment I decided to study abroad, the TEAN number quickly landed on my speed dial. Once I was in Australia I was relieved that there were Resident Directors to guide us. They always had the answers to questions, were knowledgeable about the area, suggested great activities, and encouraged us to have the best experience possible. My study abroad experience through TEAN bettered me as a friend, a traveler, a leader, and a student. I fully recommend every student to take advantage of the opportunities that lay right before their eyes. Academics: Academic semesters at Bond University ran on the same time schedule as my home university which made studying abroad easier. Living Situation: Living right on the beach in a hotel was the ultimate living situation. Can't forget about the weekly cleaning service either! Cultural Immersion: Bond University is an international university which allowed me to meet people from all over the world. Living on the beach surrounded by cafes, shops, and entertainment allowed me to submerge myself into the Australian culture.

A + for TEAN

February 12, 2012by: Megan

Program: Study Abroad in Wellington, New Zealand

5

I would encourage anyone looking into studying abroad in New Zealand to go and to go through The Education Abroad Network! My experience with TEAN and in New Zealand were nothing but positive. New Zealand was the perfect place for me to study abroad because it offered so many opportunities! TEAN is a great program because they truly care about each individual student. I had so many questions before I went abroad and TEAN made sure every single one was answered. The staff know what they are doing and are fun to be around. They made me feel extremely comfortable in such a new situation as traveling to another country. The program makes sure you are getting the most out of your experience abroad, I know I left New Zealand with no regrets...except maybe having to leave! Living Situation: I lived with four other girls from around the world in a flat. We each had our own room and the place had its own washer and dryer! Wifi was included as well. Could not have asked for a better situation! Program Administration: Administration was nothing but helpful!

Best 4 Months of My Life- THANKS TO TEAN

February 06, 2012by: KatelynUNH

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

The Education Abroad Network was impeccable. From the application process and pre-departure sessions to orientation and our four month experience down under, TEAN was there every step of the way. They made the transition of moving across the world easier than I ever could have imagined. For orientation, all of our transportation, meals, living accommodations, tours etc. were all taken care of. With the one set price (that was payed before the semester even started) everything was included. There were no additional hidden fees and everything was super organized. TEAN's orientation in Fiji and Sydeny were absolutely phenomenal- definitely the best way to start a semester abroad. I studied in the Gold Coast at Bond University. TEAN offered a number of living options that would accomodate everyone. I lived in "beach housing" which was located one block from the beach. These living circumstances made my experience in Australia that much better, allowing myself to be submerge myself into the the country's beach culture. Finally, the best thing that TEAN has to offer is their staff. I could not have asked for a better group of people to work with. Everyone was extremely friendly and always willing to help. I can honestly say that I spent more time on the phone with TEAN's enrollment coordinator in those few months before departing than I did with anyone. She literally would have walked me through the entire application if I needed her to. The TEAN employees want you to go abroad because they know first hand how amazing the experience is. I would absolutely recommend studying abroad with TEAN. I took this exact advice from one of my friends last year and it was the best decision I could have ever made.

Time of My Life

February 06, 2012by: NatashaS

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad is one of the most fulfilling experiences I've ever had. I was able to grow as a person and became more open minded about a lot of ideas. TEAN was amazing in my progress through this program. They help you every step of the way and the orientation was amazing! Although there is a school aspect, I was able to travel and learn about different cultures. It was incredibily fun and you meet so many great people from all over the world! Living Situation: If you live off campus, 1 block from the beach, resturants, clubs in very close proximity Cultural Immersion: TEAN prepares you very well for your study abroad experience and what you should recieve out of this adventure

AMAZING!

February 04, 2012by: Asha Jackson

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

TEAN did an amazing job coordinating and executing an efficient, safe, comfortable, and exciting stay in both Thailand ad Cambodia. The accommodations, classes/academic atmosphere, and recreational activities/trips were all great. I have no complaints about the experience, and I wouldn't have had wanted it any other way.

Epic

November 26, 2011by: Stephanie Zaverdas

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad in the Gold Coast with TEAN is the easily the best decision I have ever made. Australia is not only beautiful- but the people there are absolutely amazing. If your going to study in Australia you have to go through the Education Aboad Network they were there to help me every step of the way- and I truly credit them for the epic experience I had.

TEAN-Sydney: AMAZING

November 20, 2011by: Nicole

Program: Study Abroad at University of Sydney with WorldStrides

5

The Education Abroad Network (TEAN) is an amazing program to study abroad through in Australia. I had the time of my life in Sydney, Australia. The people who work for TEAN are all so helpful and go beyond their job expectation. Australia was always a dream destination of mine. Now I get to say I have lived there for 5 amazing months. There is not one day I still do not think about it there and all of the great friends I have met and still keep in contact with. I never felt homesick there. If anything I feel homesick with being home in the states. The lifestyle and culture there are so alive and make you feel as if you belong even though you technically live on the other side of the world. I would not trade my time in Australia for anything. I would definitely advise anyone to go through The Education Abroad Network to travel to Australia to study abroad or to intern. They definitley made the experience all the more while. The 5 day orientation was one of the best times I had in Australia! They make the whole experience as smooth as possible and are more than willing to help! Living Situation: Beyond amazing and accomodating!

The Trip of a Lifetime!!

November 13, 2011by: mkep2012

Program: Study Abroad at University of Sydney with WorldStrides

5

The Education Abroad Network will not let you down in your experience in Sydney. They walked me through every step of the process and were there to answer every single question I had. They are incredibly helpful and I could not recommend a better company to go abroad with. The living situation is great!! It's such a big apartment and it's all taken care of for you. You don't have to bring sheets, towels or anything to furnish it!! They are also incredibly helpful in getting you situated with your new school. School is much different over there and they made sure I was comfortable and knew exactly what I was doing and where to go if I needed anything! If I ever had a question throughout the semester they were there to answer it for me!! This is not a company that is just going to dump you in a foreign country. They were there the entire semester from the moment I stepped in the country till the moment I left it!! They want you to have the time of your life and they provide you with all the resources to do so! All of my friends that I met over there loved this program. We all agreed that we would not have chosen another one even when looking back! TEAN will not let you down in the amazing experiences that they have to offer you!! You will not find another company that cares more about your experience abroad then TEAN!!

JCU

October 16, 2011by: Jenny Kline

Program: Study Abroad in Townsville, Australia with WorldStrides

5

TEAN was so helpful from the very first time I stepped foot into their office and I am still in contact with them every week. I love how easy they made my trip. Everything I needed to know they helped me with! They arranged all of my group flights, accommodation, food and so much more. It was nice to know that while I was in a foreign country, there was a whole network back at my home country that was there for me every step of the way. They made it very easy to adapt to a different way of life. I suggest anyone and everyone to go abroad because it truly changes you as a person for the better. It really makes you be more independent. I, personally, learned a lot about myself and what is truly important to me. There will never be enough good things I can say about going abroad. It's just one of those decisions you just have to go with, follow your heart and you will never be let down. I promise you will not come home unhappy. I want to go back so bad! Working with TEAN is the right decision to make and the first decision you have to make when choosing to go abroad :)

Flawless

October 12, 2011by: Steph

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

My experience abroad was amazing. I couldn't have asked for anything more, except to stay for maybe a year longer. The Education Abroad Network was wonderful. I can't encourage it enough- if you are going to study abroad.. GO THROUGH THE EDUCATION ABROAD NETWORK. They set me up with the most amazing housing. I lived right on the beach, and my balcony overlooked the ocean. Griffith University is beautiful- I miss it everyday. The Gold Coast in general is a total beach town. If I give anyone any advice, it's go to Australia. It's such an amazing place.

Review of TEAN

September 07, 2011by: lal002

Program: Study Abroad in Auckland, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad was the best decision I’ve made; the experiences I’ve had have been life changing. They have been by far the best experience in my entire life. These encounters would not have occurred if it weren’t for The Education Abroad Network (TEAN). From the beginning when I was first planning my trip all the way till the end when I was transferring my classes back TEAN has provided me with great assistance to make the transformation smooth and easy. TEAN was willing to work with me when I choose to study abroad a little later than everyone else. Many programs wouldn’t work with me since I was past their deadlines but TEAN told me if I was willing to get everything in as soon as possible they would be willing to work with me as well. TEAN treats everyone as a person, not as a number. They look at everyone’s situation and are willing to help each and every person out because they know how wonderful studying abroad truly is. To start my abroad experience I took the TEAN pre-trip to Fiji. This pre-trip provided us with the opportunity to get to know everyone studying in New Zealand. So many programs just had orientation with all students from one city so they didn’t get to meet people studying in different places. This provided us with long-lasting friendships that continued as our experience progressed. We were able to meet up with people as we traveled to and from cities. This provided us with good recommendations from people in the area and even couches and floors to sleep on! After getting to New Zealand TEAN continued to care for me and make sure everyone was adjusting well and enjoying their experience. They did a great job of continuing to keep in touch and offering activities and advice for people seeking them. Once I left the wonderful country of NZ TEAN didn’t just stop there. They are continuing to make sure that my classes have returned back in Marietta College just fine. I can’t thank TEAN enough for providing me with the opportunity to study abroad. Health and Safety: Kiwi's are friendly but its still a city. I had no issues nor did my friends. Just make smart choices and you'll be fine. Social Life: always something to do in the city if you are looking for it

Education Abroad Network- Griffith Uni

August 31, 2011by: Tom Banafato

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

5

The Education Abroad Network, Study Australia at Griffith University, kicked off with a five-day orientation held in Sydney. The orientation was very entertaining and included several different unique experiences that were put together by the Education Abroad Network staff, such as scaling the Sydney bridge and petting kangaroos at the zoo. After orientation we arrived at our 4-star hotel located on the beach in Broadbeach, Queensland in which we lived in for the semester. It was beautiful. I studied at Griffith University along over 10,000 international students from 124 countries. Griffith University offers international applicants a safe, friendly, supportive community and study environment for you to achieve your academic and careers goals. Overall I had a fantastic experience with the Education Abroad Network and my studies at Griffith Uni. Studying abroad is a once in a lifetime experience that should not be passed on by anyone, I would not trade it for anything.

Life on the Gold Coast

August 30, 2011by: avanderlin

Program: Study Abroad in Gold Coast, Australia with WorldStrides

4

While studying in Australia, there were a few things that made the experience unforgettable. The staff that helped myself through the many complicated steps to get to Australia all the way from Pennsylvania was defintely one of those things. They were always very attentive and answered the many questions that came up in my daily searches. From the time I landed in Sydney, attended the presemester trip to Cairns, and finally posted up for the semester in Gold Coast, The Education Abroad Network Team was there to assist. Our living situation was grand. We were put up in five star accomodations that overlooked the ocean. Although we were away from campus and some locals, we enjoyed our time getting to know the other students in the apartment building. I would absolutely recommend The Education Abroad Network and Gold Coast to anyone thinking of studying in Australia. If you are looking for excellent service accompanied by an unforgettable time, the staff at EAN can accomodate.

Study Australia

August 30, 2011by: Marissa Ernst

Program: Study Abroad in Sydney, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Feb 2011-July 2011 University of New South Wales Sydney, Australia Going abroad has opened my heart to such amazing life-changing opportunities. It has challenged me to create amazing dreams and make them real – to face my fears and laugh at them. After being in Australia for 6 months, I have continued to carry this refreshing sense of freedom with me everywhere I go. If I hadn’t spent my semester and summer in Australia, I don’t think I would be where I am today; grow in the same light that I grew while I was abroad. GO ABROAD! It will change something for you, I promise. Most importantly, go abroad with TEAN. I don’t think I could speak as highly of my abroad experience if it wasn’t for TEAN. I knew immediately that I wanted to go through TEAN just from reading about the orientation program that they have to offer and after researching their housing accommodations, planned trips, and advising…I was sold. I spent a lot of time looking at other programs, but I always seemed to come back to TEAN. All of the staff members are phenomenal, supportive and so in touch with their study abroad destinations that you can’t help falling in love with your city just from hearing them passionately talk about it. The TEAN staff is truly what makes this program so special, they care about you, take the time to get to know you, and are willing to approach anything to make your experience more enjoyable. I made life-long friendships with other students during our 5-day orientation, as well as my pre-semester trip to Cairns and Byron Bay. TEAN sets up easy and comfortable environments to make great friends and be yourself in those environments. I loved Australia and TEAN so much that I decided to stay an extra two months and participate in their internship program. Even though the thought of studying abroad can be overwhelming, it’s not if you’re in the hands of TEAN!

TEAN Western Australia

August 26, 2011by: Mary Lewis

Program: Study Abroad in Perth, Australia with WorldStrides

5

TEAN is a program I definitely recommend! I had the time of my life studying abroad with help along the way. If you are someone who doesn't have much travel experience, and wants to get the most for your money, TEAN is honestly a great program. I had never flown before my journey from Iowa to Australia. I took advantage of the group flight they offer as well as help obtaining my visa and passport. I also had a cellphone preordered and waiting for me when I arrived in Sydney. Orientation is fabulous and includes information about cultural immersion, academics, accomodation and any other questions in general. For the Australia program, it is 5 days long in Sydney full of activities ( Sydney Bridge Climb, Captatin Cook Dinner Cruise, Wildlife Park Trip, Walking Tour of the City & more), info sessions and meals. After orientation there is airport transportation to your next destination, which was Perth for me. Once in Perth, TEAN was still helpful with moving in, academics, and what was going on back at home. They also offer many excursions before, after and during your semester abroad with everything planned and a great value for your money. I loved Perth and really felt I was a part of the Australia culture. Perth from my experience is a very underrated city that everyone should get a chance to experience. If you are considering Australia, New Zealand, or Asia, definitely consider TEAN. You will have the time of your life and they are great every step of the way & offer many opportunities to study and travel! Social Life: It is only a 20 minute train ride into the city of Perth. There is alot to do in Fremantle, including a two minute walk to Bathers Beach, plenty of nightlife, and student orgranizations to get involved in.

Thailand & Cambodia

August 25, 2011by: Mallory Fink

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

4

This program is still an infant, as it just began about a year ago. However, there are only minor changes that we have been told will be made. Overall, this program was fantastic and I loved every minute of it. Health and Safety: I felt incredibly safe in both areas. In Vietnam my purse got stolen, but you just have to make sure you are constantly aware of your belongings (it could happen anywhere). Social Life: We went out a lot more often in Thailand, as it's more common in their society; in Cambodia we went out, but not as often, as it's a very different environment, but really nice to be in to relax and reflect, as cheesy as it sounds.

Amazing New Zealand

August 25, 2011by: Alec

Program: Study Abroad in Wellington, New Zealand - Massey University

5

Studying abroad has definitely been the most exciting and rewarding experience of my life. The lifelong friendships and unforgettable memories that I have made are irreplaceable. I don’t think that I could have had a better experience anywhere else or with anyone else. I knew that I wanted to study abroad in New Zealand since I was in high school, and the only question I had was how I was going to get there. Looking back on it now I feel that the best decision I made regarding my entire abroad experience was making the decision to go with TEAN as a provider. The people at TEAN are extremely friendly and helpful. They really attempt and get to know their students and help them feel comfortable as much as they can. I attended the pre-semester trip to Fiji, which was absolutely amazing and a perfect way to meet the other program members. The nervousness and anxiety that I felt on the flight over was immediately replaced with excitement once we arrived at our resort and I met the other TEAN students. The pre-semester trip and the orientation in Auckland made the transition to New Zealand and being abroad for the first time much easier. I was originally studying at the University of Canterbury until the February 22 earthquake struck Christchurch and we ere forced to transfer. TEAN did an amazing job with helping us switch schools and made the transfer to Massey University in Wellington much easier for us. The support that TEAN provided us during this stressful time was outstanding. The people at TEAN really helped us feel comfortable and took care if us during the process of moving. My experiences in Wellington were also amazing. I loved the city of Wellington and living in the Cube apartments made for easy and quick access to campus as well as downtown Wellington and the beachfront. Wellington is an awesome city with a lot of culture and art. Although Massey Wellington is particularly suited for design, fashion, or art students, I found my business classes to be very interesting and I really learned a lot. I enjoyed my time in Christchurch but I am very glad that I ended up going to school in Wellington. It was an amazing place with friendly people and I doubt I will ever live in a city as unique as Wellington. I will never forget my experiences in New Zealand and cannot wait to go back!

TEAN

August 25, 2011by: Lauren

Program: Study Abroad in Auckland, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad was the best decision I’ve made; the experiences I’ve had have been life changing. They have been by far the best experience in my entire life. These encounters would not have occurred if it weren’t for The Education Abroad Network (TEAN). From the beginning when I was first planning my trip all the way till the end when I was transferring my classes back TEAN has provided me with great assistance to make the transformation smooth and easy. TEAN was willing to work with me when I choose to study abroad a little later than everyone else. Many programs wouldn’t work with me since I was past their deadlines but TEAN told me if I was willing to get everything in as soon as possible they would be willing to work with me as well. TEAN treats everyone as a person, not as a number. They look at everyone’s situation and are willing to help each and every person out because they know how wonderful studying abroad truly is. To start my abroad experience I took the TEAN pre-trip to Fiji. This pre-trip provided us with the opportunity to get to know everyone studying in New Zealand. So many programs just had orientation with all students from one city so they didn’t get to meet people studying in different places. This provided us with long-lasting friendships that continued as our experience progressed. We were able to meet up with people as we traveled to and from cities. This provided us with good recommendations from people in the area and even couches and floors to sleep on! After getting to New Zealand TEAN continued to care for me and make sure everyone was adjusting well and enjoying their experience. They did a great job of continuing to keep in touch and offering activities and advice for people seeking them. Once I left the wonderful country of NZ TEAN didn’t just stop there. They are continuing to make sure that my classes have returned back in Marietta College just fine. I can’t thank TEAN enough for providing me with the opportunity to study abroad.

TEAN STUDY AUSTRALIA

August 23, 2011by: Elizabeth Sayer

Program: Study Abroad in Sydney, Australia with WorldStrides

5

University of New South Wales: Feb-June 2011 Home University: Purdue University, West Lafayette Major: Civil Engineering, Structural Emphasis When I first came to Purdue as a freshman, I had never even considered studying abroad. I grew up in Mentor, Ohio my whole life and then came to Purdue but had never been out of the country or furthermore the Midwest so I wasn’t really aware of the incredible opportunities and experiences I was missing out on having not done much travel in my high school years. At the beginning of my second year, I attended the study abroad fair after having talked to many people who had study abroad the year before and suddenly was pretty interested. Australia was an English speaking country and warm for the majority of the year so when I became aware that there were programs there for engineering and management I was ecstatic. TEAN has provided me with the best experience I could have ever asked for in my schooling education. The study abroad programs that they make available to us students are extremely well thought out, planned, and explained to all participants in the program. I always felt that I had somebody I could talk to and ask questions throughout my whole experience, starting with my early application process, to pre-departure information and preparation, to actually being in another country, and finally even with the follow up to ensure I had the best experience possible. There was never a time while I was in Australia that I felt that I had nobody to turn to, ask questions, or find a helping hand. The TEAN excursions, housing options, and pre-departure trips really set it out from any other program I’ve talked to people about and I honestly feel privileged to have been able to study abroad through them. From my personal experience with TEAN, I participated in the orientation and mid-semester break to New Zealand. These were some of the best times I had overseas because it really opened me up to meeting other people and truly immersing myself in the other cultures with the help of the elite TEAN advisors that put on the orientation and excursion trips. I also lived in the TEAN provided housing at Bondi Junction Meriton Apartments and could not have been more pleased with its amazing location that provided easy access to shopping, groceries, and transportation. It was a decision that was hard to decide on originally because I didn’t realize how great this option was without having have talked to anybody that had lived there, but I am now a personal advocate and supporter of this choice. I will never forget the time I had in Australia, the people I met, and the people who helped make it happen!

School Down Under

August 22, 2011by: Brisbane2

Program: Study Abroad in Brisbane, Australia with WorldStrides

4

I attended the University of Queensland with the TEAN program! UQ is gorgeous and puts a lot of effort into making the university a great place for both students and professors. TEAN organized living near by, constantly sent reminders of big events in the area and our Resident Director was always available to help ranging from directions and what bus to take to school, housing and everything needed to make Brisbane feel like home!

Alter Your Prespective

August 21, 2011by: Andrew Lovitt

Program: Study Abroad in Sydney, Australia with WorldStrides

4

I am a strong advocate for studying abroad because it truly changed my perception of other cultures. Studying abroad is an excellent way to connect with other cultures and experience different perspectives. My study abroad experience was as exciting as it was enlightening. The knowledge I gleaned from living in Australia for nearly 5 months is invaluable. My educational experience really occurred when I left the classroom and immersed myself into the culture. TEAN was organized and did an outstanding job in discovering great deals, providing unique opportunities, and arranging thrilling activities. The week I spent in Cairns and Byron Bay cannot be replicated. I met many life-long friends and shared many unforgettable moments. I strongly recommend participating in all of the activities during orientation week and traveling on a pre-semester excursion. One thing that separates TEAN from pursuing an exchange program is the bonding that occurs during orientation and pre-semester excursions. I can honestly say without TEAN, I would not have made many, if any, friends while abroad. I recommend taking classes that are interesting and intellectually stimulating. I am majoring in political science and philosophy, but I took classes in anthropology, history, and politics. The politics class was very interesting; as the only American in my tutorial, I was able to offer a unique perspective to others. I lived in Bondi Junction in the Meriton. The location was excellent, and the living accommodations were superb. Ultimately, I found the TEAN staff to be very knowledgeable and helpful. I highly recommend this program!

Why study abroad in Southeast Asia?

August 20, 2011by: ndavid04

Program: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides

5

Why study abroad in Southeast Asia? This was the question I kept asking myself as I debated where to study abroad for a semester. Now that I've finished my program, I don't know why I ever considered any other program. This experience was the best thing that I've ever done in my college career. I was fully immersed into a new culture and was able to compare two countries through this program, which I didn't find as an option in any other program. We were also able to visit several villages to be immersed in their culture, which was an amazing experience to be able to visit areas barely touched by western influence. This was an amazing experience and I would recommend it to anyone weighing their options.

Study Abroad Spring 2011 - Sam Hellwege

August 18, 2011by: Sam Hellwege 2013

Program: Study Abroad in Wellington, New Zealand

5

Studying Abroad was by far the best decision of my life. This in part was due to the fact that I had the best Study Abroad Program with me throughout the entirety of my stay in NZ. Even before we began our travels, TEAN advisors continuously e-mailed and contacted us to make sure that we had everything that we needed to be prepared for our 5 month excursion abroad. As for living in New Zealand and attending Victoria University in Wellington, I couldn't ask for anything more. I was immersed right in the middle of the city yet close to Mount Vic and Oriental Bay in case I wanted to go for a hike or take a dip in the water. Wellington also was a perfect location for traveling to other cities in New Zealand, including both the North and South Island. Throughout my stay I made many memories and met a ton of amazing people that I happily call my friends. I can't thank TEAN enough for everything they gave me and helped me with throughout my time abroad. If it wasn't for them, I absolutely wouldn't have had the same amazing experience that has shaped me for the rest of my life!

I am Obsessed with my TEAN/NZ Experience

August 17, 2011by: Sadie

Program: Study Abroad in Auckland, New Zealand with WorldStrides

5

I was terrified before studying abroad. Even though I moved from the Midwest to the East Coast to go to college moving to the whole other side of the world is completely different. TEAN was so great the whole time though and answered all the questions I had so quickly that it helped to calm my nerves. From the second I met up with other TEAN kids in the LAX airport I had completely forgotten all of my paranoia. Everyone in the program was amazing and the pre-semester trip to Fiji was definitely a great way to ease into the study abroad experience. Once I got settled in Auckland things only got better. I loved my residence (Parnell Student Village) and everything about New Zealand. Before going to Auckland nature and I were not the closest friends but there's something about New Zealand that changes you. I got into camping, hiking and even went skydiving! Auckland itself is not the coolest city but the location definitely makes up for it. Where else can you see the sunrise on the east coast and then watch it set on the west in the same day? Plus, it's really easy to see all of the North Island from its location. Not to mention that Waiheke Island is only a short ferry ride away where you can lounge on the beach and wine taste all day. University of Auckland was about as different from the seminar style of my college as it could get. The classes were big but all my lecturers were smart and definitely entertaining. While I definitely learned a little I wasn't challenged. I also was taking 100 and 200 level courses and my grades were pass/fail though so if you're looking for great academics just take 300 or grad courses. I fully recommend studying abroad through TEAN. They are very hands-on and provide their students with more benefits/excursions than any other program I've heard of. And my time in NZ was definitely the best six months of my life! Academics: I only took 1st and 2nd year courses so if you're looking to be challenged I'd recommend taking 3rd year or even grad courses. Living Situation: I loved living in Parnell Student Village more than any other aspect of studying abroad. The location next to the Domain was amazing and I made the closest friends in the world there!

I spent the Fall 2008 semester studying at...

March 07, 2011by: Carrie Wallis - Multiple Countries

Program: Study Abroad in London, England with WorldStrides

5

I spent the Fall 2008 semester studying at the University of Westminster in London. I also participated in a part-time internship arranged through the university. I experienced a great part of London and the UK, and ISA's excursions and our group made it a memorable experience.

The Dominican Republic was a growing experience...

March 07, 2011by: Brittany Kahl - Multiple Countries
5

The Dominican Republic was a growing experience for me, and was necessary for me to better understand myself, social problems in the world, and many more lessons of life and reality. The program was very organized. The directors were excellent. There are many opportunities to practice Spanish.

ISA is so student oriented. Any questions...

March 07, 2011by: Mariel Suarez - Multiple Countries

Program: Study Abroad in Prague, Czech Republic with WorldStrides

5

ISA is so student oriented. Any questions or problem I had was dealt with quickly and their main concern was that I had the best experience possible. Prague is magical and ISA made it unforgettable.

I loved studying abroad and I believe that...

March 07, 2011by: Alexander Reed - Multiple Countries

Program: Study Abroad in Prague, Czech Republic with WorldStrides

5

I loved studying abroad and I believe that every college student should go somewhere different and new for at least a semester. My four months in the Czech Republic were some of the best times ever and I accredit ISA and ISA staff for enriching my experience abroad!

ISA helped me connect the Spanish language...

March 07, 2011by: Hannah Rosen - Multiple Countries

Program: Study Abroad in Seville, Spain with WorldStrides

5

ISA helped me connect the Spanish language to a beautiful country with a vibrant culture. I learned how to embrace this experience and found myself taking opportunities I never would have taken in the United States. It has been an amazing experience.

Costa Rica was everything I could have asked...

March 07, 2011by: Brendan Thompson - Multiple Countries

Program: Study Abroad in San Jose, Costa Rica with WorldStrides

5

Costa Rica was everything I could have asked for in a study abroad program. Cool people, great staff, amazing teachers, wonderful culture!

This was easily one of the greatest, most...

March 07, 2011by: Alex Bernstein - Multiple Countries

Program: Study Abroad in Buenos Aires, Argentina with WorldStrides

5

This was easily one of the greatest, most enriching experiences of my life. I've learned and seen more in about three months than I ever dreamed I could.

Studying abroad was the best time of my life...

March 07, 2011by: Regan Last - Australia

Program: Study Abroad in Melbourne, Australia with WorldStrides

5

Studying abroad was the best time of my life and Study Australia made it SO easy! I was so impressed with the organization of the program with respect to the orientation, the pre-semester trip, activities planned throughout the semester, and the spring break trip. They were also very hlepful when it came to planning trips of our own. I would recommend using The Education Abroad Netowork for any study abroad experience, whether it be in Australia, New Zealand, or Asia. I had an amazing time, and made the best of friends.

Great Program

November 04, 2009by: harryt - Australia

Program: Study Abroad at University of Sydney with WorldStrides

5

I will be finishing the semester here in Sydney soon and have had a great experience thanks in large part to the staff and Study Australia. From my initial application to all the enrollment work to the time in Australia the staff has been amazingly helpful. I was referred to the program by someone from my school and it was the best advice I could have taken. The resident director in Sydney was great and really helped us. You only have one chance at this and I would recommend using Study Australia. The housing was also awesome.

The Australian guide was the greatest benefit

September 20, 2009by: Maggie - Australia

Program: Study Abroad in Sydney, Australia with WorldStrides

4

I had an incredible experience while abroad. Study Australia was always available and offered students with valuable resources (contacts, guides, support members). However, the only downfall would be how many Americans were at Bond. This limited out integration into the Australian culture. Housing was good, but not great (cockroaches, staff unavailable). Trips were encouraged and offered through the program. Greatest benefit of going through Study Australia was our own personal Australian guide that was with us throughout the program.

Great Housing and orientation. Id recommend...

May 10, 2009by: Jennifer Mott - Australia

Program: Study Abroad at University of Sydney with WorldStrides

5

Great Housing and orientation. Id recommend it!

Absolutely amazing! Study Australia had...

April 22, 2009by: MarissaPalmisano - Australia

Program: Study Abroad in Sydney, Australia with WorldStrides

4

Absolutely amazing! Study Australia had incredible pre and post semester trips. Accommodations were incredible (Wond Tower Suites in Sydney! for a week!) Extremely helpful with everything - travel, culture, etc. Organized great trips - fun, young leaders. They put us in multi-million dollar penthouses with a view of he city - even had a pool and a balcony.

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Interviews

Read interviews from alumni or staff

Hedvika Tichá

Hedvika Tichá

Interviewed in 2025

Staff

What inspired you to travel abroad?

The impact it has on shaping future generations by building bridges between people and cultures. It's so inspiring to see how students transform during their study abroad experience.

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Andy Osorio

Andy Osorio

Interviewed in 2025

Staff

What inspired you to travel abroad?

I love sharing my culture with my students. They get to learn something about my country and also end up learning about themselves. We have exchange activities with students from Cusco, where our students can learn or improve their Spanish.

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Lizette Arredondo Castillo

Lizette Arredondo Castillo

Interviewed in 2025

Staff

What inspired you to travel abroad?

I always wanted to study abroad and meet people from other cultures. I did not have the chance to study abroad, but I was so happy to meet foreign students and be part of their abroad experience.

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Michelle McRaney

Michelle McRaney

Interviewed in 2025

Staff

What inspired you to travel abroad?

Studying abroad as an undergraduate student inspired me to work for ISA. I traveled on direct agreement programs through my university, without the support of an organization like ISA.

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Shayla Bergene

Shayla Bergene

Participated in 2024

Alumni

From a very young age, I knew I was going to study outside of the United States. I was always inspired to learn from other cultures, especially to study there, which I knew would be life-changing.

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Katelyn Karwick

Katelyn Karwick

Participated in 2024

Alumni

If I’m entirely honest, one day I just decided to. I don’t know if it was some post I saw or something that reminded me of it, but I was determined ever since.

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Laura Cristina Arredondo Vélez

Laura Cristina Arredondo Vélez

Interviewed in 2025

Staff

What inspired you to travel abroad?

I'm inspired to work for WorldStrides because my study abroad experience was challenging and life-changing. I want to help others have the best experience of their lives while studying in my hometown.

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Tucker Wolf

Tucker Wolf

Participated in 2024

Alumni

I wanted to study abroad because it felt like the perfect opportunity to step out of my comfort zone and experience new cultures firsthand. Learning and practicing Spanish was a key motivator, as I had always been drawn to the language and its rich heritage. Being immersed in a Spanish-speaking country was the best way to truly understand it. I was also eager to travel around Europe, exploring its diversity and history. Beyond that, I saw this as a chance to learn more about myself. It would be my first time completely alone in another country, pushing me to grow, adapt, and find my independence.

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Kira Cordova

Kira Cordova

Participated in 2021

Alumni

I wanted to cement my Spanish language skills. I studied Spanish, and I knew I needed immersion to become fluent. I also wanted to travel; I had never left the United States before I studied abroad, and I wanted to see other countries. I also wanted to become comfortable traveling by myself. Study abroad seemed like the solution to all of the above!

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Alayna O’Keefe

Alayna O’Keefe

Participated in 2019

Alumni

I have a passion for travel and learning about history and culture. My passions even influenced what I chose to study in college. I have been lucky enough to travel internationally a lot with my family, but I always wanted to make it a goal of mine to study abroad and live and learn on my own.

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Nicole Springer

Nicole Springer

Participated in 2015

Alumni

I have always loved traveling ever since I was a little kid. My parents were fortunate enough to be able to take us to Florida to go to Disney every Christmas. As I grew older, I was able to travel more and had some amazing opportunities.  I always knew that I wanted to go abroad specifically to China because I love the culture and the people and I wanted to know as much as I could.

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Elena Conklin

Elena Conklin

Participated in 2015

Alumni

The reason why I decided to study abroad was that I knew I needed some change in my life. I was going through personal struggles right before I applied to go abroad and figured that I needed a change of scenery, and I was completely right about that.

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Jayde Hansen

Jayde Hansen

Participated in 2016

Alumni

The hunger to break my routine. I hit a point in my college career where I thought, “Is this it? Do I just get a degree and continue on with a career?” I wanted to see new things, meet new people, and begin to experience my life in a different way. I was scrolling on my Instagram feed and I saw someone mention they were going to study abroad for a week; I thought to myself “This is exactly what I’m looking for. I’m going for it.” That same day I contacted my school only to find out that I called at the perfect time to attend orientation within the next two hours. That day, I chose Greece. It was my only choice.

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Alexandra Inslee

Alexandra Inslee

Participated in 2011

Alumni

I had two main reasons for choosing ISA. First was the price - ISA stood out as one of the most reasonably priced study abroad programs I found in my search, and their program in Meknes was less expensive than the other programs I was looking at in Morocco. Second, and probably most important, was the reviews. I was very involved in the study abroad community at my university and I was constantly hearing good things about ISA. The representatives who visited my campus were super friendly and had had great experiences, and when I mentioned the idea of studying abroad through ISA instead of a program sponsored by the University of California, my study abroad adviser loved the idea. She told me, "We have a really good relationship with them, they're great!"

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Scott Carney

Scott Carney

Participated in 2012

Alumni

Both of my brothers had previously studied abroad, so they had instilled into me the importance of immersing oneself into another culture and taking advantage of a special place in life where we are afforded the luxury of time and encouragement for exploration (aka college). From my point of view, in order to become a global citizen, one should encompass learning and living a life perspective outside of an American centrist view. I felt the passion to become better-rounded and equipped to handle potentially adverse situations, which is a common phenomenon in international programs when adjusting to a new culture.

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Deirdre Scanlon

Deirdre Scanlon

Participated in 2013

Alumni

Growing up, my mom always told me about her study abroad experience in Florence, Italy while she was in college. She described it as one of the best experiences of her life. Contrarily, my Dad talked about how he wished he had studied abroad. With these influences, it became a dream of mine to spend a semester in a foreign country. I would not call myself an adventurous person; I like my comfort zone quite a lot. However, I often find that my best experiences are when I push myself to go outside my comfort zone and explore something new. Studying abroad, especially with ISA, was the perfect way for me to do this, and it was the best decision I ever made.

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Mandy Terbrueggen

Mandy Terbrueggen

Participated in 2014

Alumni

I had a strong desire to travel and wanted to do it in a setting where I could meet other people who shared the same enthusiasm of exploring the world as me.

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Ben Schumann

Ben Schumann

Participated in 2015

Alumni

I wanted to see Europe and improve my Spanish language level.

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Paola Gamboa

Paola Gamboa

Participated in 2014

Alumni

I decided to study abroad to expand my horizons. I had chosen to stay in my hometown for college, so I really wanted to explore what else the world had to offer. I chose to take it to the next step and apply to a summer program in beautiful Rome, Italy. I had grown up so sheltered and dependent, I wanted to test my limits and see what I was capable of.

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Chelsea LeFave

Chelsea LeFave

Participated in 2014

Alumni

I decided to apply for an international program for so many reasons. I have always had the travel bug and the desire to see everything the world has to offer. After learning a lot about doing business in other countries, from my minor in International Business, I knew that studying abroad was something I had to do. I never imagined however that I would learn so much about myself.

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Anastasia Rud

Anastasia Rud

Participated in 2014

Alumni

The particular track I chose for my international relations major has a requirement to study abroad, so I knew that this would be an inevitable part of my academic career. However, it was my choice in the first place, as I believed from early on that studying abroad would complement my studies.

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Silvia Villarreal

Silvia Villarreal

Participated in 2014

Alumni

When I was ten years old, I knew the I was meant to visit Spain. My first semester at the University of Texas at El Paso I looked into study abroad. I was able to meet the qualifications and I applied to study abroad. When I was admitted to the University in Granada my twenty year dream became a reality.

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Anna Catherine Caldwell

Anna Catherine Caldwell

Participated in 2013

Alumni

I chose ISA because they had everything and more that I was looking for. They offered excursions to Machu Picchu, my number one reason for choosing Perú, as well as to the Amazon Jungle, Amazon River, the deserts of Ica.

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Dani Schugg

Dani Schugg

Participated in 2013

Alumni

I did a travel study program to Madrid, Salamanca, and Barcelona the summer between my junior and senior year of high school. Ever since then, I looked forward to spending a semester back in Spain during college because I had fallen in love with the country on that trip. Coming to UCLA, I wanted to find a major that suited my passion and interests in international politics and culture and would encourage me to see the world. After settling into my university classes and university life, I realized that I was missing out on something bigger than what was around me. So that's when I decided that I would fulfill my desire to go abroad again.

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Alexandra Esposito

Alexandra Esposito

Participated in 2014

Alumni

I decided to apply for an international program because I love traveling and seeing the world and I felt like this was my opportunity to do so. Also, ever since I could remember, I have always wanted to study abroad; once I got to college and once I got the opportunity to do so, I took it. Lastly, I felt like this was my best opportunity to discover who I am as a person and to learn about a new culture along with broadening my horizons and changing my perspective on the world.

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Kendra Maxfield

Kendra Maxfield

Participated in 2014

Alumni

I decided to apply to go abroad because I needed a change of pace. I was exhausted with the college routine in Minnesota and I needed to experience something different. I had traveled abroad in high school and I remembered the way it made me feel. I realized that was the change I needed so I applied to go!

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Mary Rose Moss

Mary Rose Moss

Participated in 2013

Alumni

I knew I wanted to study abroad, because I have always wanted to travel to new places. I really enjoy learning about history and culture of different places, and to do so while in that place is really special.

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Amanda Sharon

Amanda Sharon

Participated in 2014

Alumni

I decided to study abroad because I wanted to get out of my comfort zone and explore the world. I thought that college was the perfect time to be adventurous and take a semester of my life to live in another country!

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Lindsay McGonegle

Lindsay McGonegle

Participated in 2014

Alumni

In 2009, my dad was transferred to Brisbane, Australia for a year. My experience in a new culture created an “itch” I can’t get rid of. From that point forward, I knew no matter where I went to college, I wanted to have the opportunity to study abroad.

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Elizabeth O’Brien

Elizabeth O’Brien

Participated in 2014

Alumni

As a Spanish major, I wanted to improve my ability to think and speak in Spanish. In addition I wanted to be a more globally engaged and involved citizen. By immersing myself in a foreign culture, I hoped to gain an understanding and appreciation for the Spanish culture, connecting literature, history, and customs. I had always been attracted to the Spanish way of life, their rich history, relaxed lifestyle, and family focus, and was anxious to continue learning by immersion.

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Maura Hilgar

Maura Hilgar

Participated in 2014

Alumni

I have always wanted to go abroad, and college seemed like a great time to do it. I love the idea of being able to take courses, therefore achieve my educational goals, while exploring a new country and having fun.

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Benjamin Olmstead

Benjamin Olmstead

Participated in 2012

Alumni

Growing up in a small town it can be hard not to feel the pull of wanting to expand your horizons. I knew after a long time fascinating myself with odd bits of information from the world beyond my borders that I would study abroad as soon as I could. I did not want to end up trapped in the tiny world I inhabited. I was then, and still am, painfully over enthusiastic about learning how other people live.

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Kari Miller

Kari Miller

Participated in 2012

Alumni

I looked through a lot of programs, countries, and various options. It was very overwhelming at first, but I slowly narrowed it down to Spain. Then, when I was looking at programs I liked the price of ISA for the number of services, excursions, and length of the program.

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Jordan Bennett

Jordan Bennett

Participated in 2013

Alumni

For my anthropology major, I am required to take two years of a language. After deciding to take Arabic, I wanted to learn more about the culture of the countries in the Middle East. I also wanted to learn Arabic in a country that it is spoken in, so studying abroad made the most sense to me.

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Adriana Smith

Adriana Smith

Participated in 2009

Alumni

I applied to an international program because I was curious to see the world. I wanted more language practice and to live in another country. I was thrilled by this opportunity even more because I received a scholarship for the program and wanted to use it before it was too late.

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Cali Opperman

Cali Opperman

Participated in 2013

Alumni

I had only heard good things about International Studies Abroad. They also had the best combination of opportunities. I was a Marketing major at the University of Pittsburgh, and ISA offered two schools for studying abroad in Sevilla, one of which was business-focused. The curriculum fit perfectly into my studies.

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Alexia Porto

Alexia Porto

Participated in 2012

Alumni

Honestly, I chose ISA because they had the only program in Rome that didn't have a language prerequisite. However, I'm extremely glad I did end up with ISA because the staff in Rome was simply wonderful. They were kind and willing to help us in any way.

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Tochukwu Ihemelu

Tochukwu Ihemelu

Participated in 2011

Alumni

I was looking for a study abroad program which would work with my master's program requirements. I did find others, but as I had received a TWU study abroad scholarship, I was unable to use them. Unfortunately, as a master's student the contracted study abroad programs didn't have courses catering to students in my situation. However, the Director and Assistant Director of International Education worked with the head of my program and ISA to make it possible for me to study abroad and receive my scholarship. I am extremely grateful for that. 

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Danielle Lockard

Danielle Lockard

Participated in 2011

Alumni

Choosing which study abroad program was the best fit for me didn’t happen overnight.  It took a lot of research and comparing to finally reach a decision. The Education Abroad office at the University of Kentucky was such a great tool in helping me decide. I wanted to choose a program outside of my school so I would have the opportunity to meet other students from different parts of the United States.

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Aaron Tucker

Aaron Tucker

Participated in 2013

Alumni

Studying in Jordan was really important to me because of the geographic location. It is actually in the Middle East as opposed to other Muslim or Islamic nations, which range from Africa all the way to Central Asia.

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Griselda Rios

Griselda Rios

Participated in 2012

Alumni

I decided on ISA because its first program was established in Salamanca, Spain. 

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Julie Therien

Julie Therien

Participated in 2013

Alumni

I chose ISA over other study abroad programs because of its strong reputation for study abroad programs, and also because the classes were perfect for my minor. I also had heard great things from previous students who studied with ISA.

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Natalie Meehan

Natalie Meehan

Participated in 2011

Alumni

I chose ISA over other study abroad programs because they really took care of everything for their students. The price was worth every penny because it included so much: travel activities, school scheduling, housing, and overall moral support. Everyone that worked at ISA and those who studied abroad in Granada became a family, and that in itself was why ISA was a great choice. I wanted to do as little work as possible so that I could go worry-free, have fun, and travel; ISA delivered exactly that.

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Madeleine O’Haire

Madeleine O’Haire

Participated in 2013

Alumni

ISA offered a variety of programs, and the Business and Culture program in Salamanca really appealed to me. The classes were taken seriously, and I really wanted to learn while I was abroad. ISA also had excursions to Seville, Lisbon, Toledo, and even an optional trip to Morocco. I was considering other programs, but after talking to the ISA staff, I could tell that they really cared and took the program seriously.

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Olivia Fisher

Olivia Fisher

Participated in 2013

Alumni

ISA is one of the affiliate programs through my school, Bridgewater State University. I browsed their website and compared it with the other affiliate programs offered, and ISA seemed to be very organized and professional. They made it very easy to gather information before embarking on the journey of applying to study abroad.

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Ronnie Minkoff

Ronnie Minkoff

Participated in 2011

Alumni

I chose ISA because it offered different excursions that were included in the tuition. Also, the study abroad advisor recommended ISA very highly. 

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Diane Frese

Diane Frese

Participated in 2013

Alumni

When starting the process of study abroad, I first narrowed my options by picking out the criteria that were most important to me—location (based off language), classes offered, and surroundings. Being a business student and wanting to go to Spain greatly decreased my options through KU, actually to none. That’s when I started becoming interested in ISA.

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Angela Chu

Angela Chu

Participated in 2013

Alumni

I chose to go with ISA over other programs because of the price and programs offered initially.  It wasn't until I was abroad and on my excursions, at my homestay, and experiencing the 24/7 ISA staff support when they took me to the hospital in the middle of the night, that I realized the true value of what I paid.

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Gabrielle Dawkins

Gabrielle Dawkins

Participated in 2013

Alumni

At the time my university had opportunities to go to countries like Brazil and Ghana. Unfortunately, China was not on that list. One of my friends referred me to a variety of programs that would offer me the opportunity to go to China. I then researched the programs, dissecting each one by cost, timespan, and credibility. ISA was the only program that stood out to me. It was the most concrete choice, and it just felt right. If I had questions or was concerned about anything, it was always a welcoming response whenever I called. 

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Tyler Cooksey

Tyler Cooksey

Participated in 2012

Alumni

Before selecting a study abroad program, I made sure to thoroughly check the information and reviews on as many programs as I could before committing to a decision. When I encountered ISA it appeared they were extremely focused on each individual, providing as much assistance and support as possible. This was really important to me because I realized how big of a step moving to a new country and fully submerging yourself into another culture must be. By reading the reviews and watching a couple videos uploaded on the site, it made me realize that I would always have assistance and resources if needed. I had many questions and concerns that arose, but any time that I contacted ISA for information they were extremely informative and reassuring. 

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Jamie Ostrem

Jamie Ostrem

Participated in 2013

Alumni

I chose ISA over other study abroad programs because some of my friends studied abroad through ISA and had nothing but good things to say about the company. It was comforting because I knew I could trust them.

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Jessie Argraves

Jessie Argraves

Participated in 2012

Alumni

Originally I chose ISA because of what the overall study abroad package offered. Working with ISA throughout the beginning stages was quite easy as well. I didn’t really see the benefits of choosing ISA as my study abroad program until after I had returned to the states.

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Emelie Vega

Emelie Vega

Participated in 2011

Alumni

Back in high school, I spent ten days in Bilbao on a student exchange program. Since then it had always been in my heart to travel back to that city, so when I decided to look into studying abroad in college, I opted to look for a program that would allow me the opportunity to live in Bilbao. ISA offers a variety of program terms (academic year, summer, semester, month, and so on). I was attending a liberal arts college at the time, so when I noticed that ISA Bilbao had a language and liberal arts program, I knew I found what I was looking for. The people at ISA were very informative when I called to ask questions. They helped prepare me for my semester abroad by providing reading materials about the cultural transition I would be experiencing, which is a major aspect of studying abroad and one of the things everyone needs to be fully aware of before heading out. 

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Kate Story

Kate Story

Participated in 2013

Alumni

ISA has always been present on our campus. They have a representative attend the university’s study abroad fair each semester, and they provide pamphlets for the study abroad office. Their website is informative and easy to navigate. Their application process is straightforward and they always have staff readily available that specialize in a particular country and are helpful, caring, and reliable. I also received positive feedback from a number of friends who used ISA in the past when they studied abroad.

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Caity O’Shaughnessy

Caity O’Shaughnessy

Participated in 2012

Alumni

I went through my university's study abroad office for advice on my future semester abroad. This was where I was given a few options, ISA being one of them. I heavily read through each program's packet of information - I was nervous enough about flying across the world alone, and I wanted to make sure that I was with the program that was going to suit me best!

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Allyse Johnson

Allyse Johnson

Participated in 2013

Alumni

I chose ISA because, although I had a number of options for programs in London, ISA's program at the University of Westminster seemed like it would get me the most bang for my buck. They also seemed like they knew exactly what they were doing - their website was clear and they were extremely helpful when I had questions. I felt confident that ISA would be able to provide me with the best overall experience and support, and let me tell you they did not disappoint. Everything about my experience with ISA was top-notch and I would not trade it for anything.

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Tiffany Taian

Tiffany Taian

Participated in 2014

Alumni

I chose ISA because of the amount of excursions they listed compared to other programs. I am glad I chose ISA because the tours as well as the hotels were beautiful. It was great having a nice hotel after going to hostels every other weekend. My school also accepted the classes towards my major so that was a big factor as well.

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Clare Greene

Clare Greene

Participated in 2013

Alumni

With all the study abroad programs offered, it was a difficult task to pick the program that would best suited me. I picked ISA because of the classes offered, the housing amenities, and the on-site support staff that was available 24-7. ISA was the best fit for my preferences, but also provided the necessary services I would need while abroad.

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KoreyAnne Smith

KoreyAnne Smith

Participated in 2013

Alumni

When looking into study abroad programs, I felt like the team at the ISA was the most enthusiastic about me joining their program. They were a knowledgeable group of individuals that offered around the clock advice and support to those who were clueless about studying abroad (like me!). It was a comfort knowing that they knew me on a more personal level, rather than just as a number.

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Jessica Len

Jessica Len

Participated in 2012

Alumni

I had two friends who chose to study abroad with ISA and just raved about it. The website was so user friendly, which automatically gave me a good feeling. I really wanted to study in London, not outside, and ISA offered a program that allowed me to do that. They also offered an amazing range of classes, and since I was just going to take general education classes, this was a big draw.

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Mary Schwark

Mary Schwark

Participated in 2013

Alumni

I would be lying if I didn’t say that it was the only program my school offered in Korea. But, I was actually the first student from my university to go to Konkuk in the Spring term. I was actually recommended to go through the study abroad program by a professor that helped me with the whole process. ISA was brand new to our school with the Korean program. That made it more exciting because I was the one to see how the program was for future students.

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Marianna Ledonne

Marianna Ledonne

Participated in 2011

Alumni

I chose ISA to go abroad with because they made the study abroad process/experience less intimidating. Everyone I spoke with at ISA Headquarters was extremely helpful and a joy to work with. I also liked the university they partnered with better than the other companies.

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Carter Harris

Carter Harris

Participated in 2011

Alumni

ISA offered the most educational and experiential options. My thought was that if I was going to study abroad, I was going to make the most of my experience. ISA had the most diverse class options. Also, the opportunity of ELAP - their Experiential Learning Program - was very appealing because I wanted to volunteer/intern while studying abroad. 

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Casey Maher

Casey Maher

Participated in 2011

Alumni

I was at a study abroad fair at my University, looking for the best programs for studying Spanish language in Spain. I happened to look across the room and see this very bright and colorful table that said "International Studies Abroad." It pulled me in. The lady working the table (Beth Calvert) was such a sweetheart (she and I eventually ended up working together when I interned for ISA after my semester abroad). She told me all about what ISA has to offer, and gave me recommendations on cities in Spain that would be a good fit for me based on my interests. ISA made me feel right at home from the very start, and I knew from that moment at that study abroad fair that I was going to have an amazing experience with them. 

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Julie Gassaway

Julie Gassaway

Participated in 2012

Alumni

I chose ISA largely because of talking with the Rep at my school. I was wandering around the Study Abroad Fair, knowing only that I wanted to study in Spain, which lead me to the ISA table and Raquel. She was such a lively, sweet woman and really helped me zero-in on what I wanted from the experience. She asked great questions and helped me figure out that Malaga would probably be the best city for me to study in.

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Brittany Then

Brittany Then

Participated in 2012

Alumni

I chose ISA over other study abroad programs because not only was its website inviting and simple to navigate, but it provided tons of information concerning what to expect living in another country. Itineraries, course descriptions, even living conditions were specified. More importantly, ISA’s study abroad program in Morocco perfectly matched my interests in the Islamic religion and North African culture. The courses the program offered also focused on humanities, which was really convenient since I'm a sociology major.

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Allison Kielhold

Allison Kielhold

Participated in 2012

Alumni

I chose ISA because they offered the language classes and academic courses that I needed for my degree. They also offered a home stay option, onsite support and tutoring, and included excursions to different parts of Costa Rica. 

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Miranda Celello

Miranda Celello

Participated in 2014

Alumni

I chose ISA because they are one of the most well-known and well-respected study abroad programs out there. They had great reviews online and from ISA alumni that I met. They also had a great amount of options within Spain for me to choose from.

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Amanda Alfarah

Amanda Alfarah

Participated in 2013

Alumni

One of the main reasons that I choose to study with ISA is because they offered the option of home stays for living arrangements. My father is an immigrant from Jordan and as I decided to travel there, I knew that I wanted to stay with my family. I recommend this option to all students studying abroad. Living with local families adds so much more depth to the experience. It was the time that I spent at home with my family that I learned the most about the culture and gained the most knowledge of Arabic language.

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Darcy Palmer

Darcy Palmer

Participated in 2013

Alumni

I initially chose International Studies Abroad over other study abroad programs simply because of their fantastic staff. I casually walked into a study abroad fair at my university and was completely drawn in by their representative. She answered all of my questions, was patient with helping me find what I was looking for, and most importantly, she was very genuine and honest. Till this day, all of the ISA staff have been more than helpful, reassuring, positive, and comforting, even under the most stressful circumstances. They are truly amazing!

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Randi Howry

Randi Howry

Participated in 2013

Alumni

I really felt that ISA offered a well-rounded experience for travelling and studying abroad. They provided the perfect combination of educational opportunities as well as weekend excursions. It allowed for an immaculate learning environment while still having time to be immersed in the incredibly rich culture that India has to offer. 

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Meredith Watts

Meredith Watts

Participated in 2013

Alumni

I started looking into programs outside of the UGA sponsored study abroad trips because I wanted to meet other students from different schools and have more freedom for traveling on the weekends, rather than a planned itinerary. I settled on ISA because it offered a wide range of cities and classes, which were all transferable to the University of Georgia. The staff at ISA was really helpful through the entire process, including setting up housing and providing some group excursions to different cities in Italy.

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Austin Edwards

Austin Edwards

Participated in 2013

Alumni

I knew that I did not want to go on a school study abroad program because I felt like I would only be around people who were from one school, and it didn’t make sense to only be around people I either already knew or already knew each other. I wanted a program that had students from all over the USA.

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Aram Mashigian

Aram Mashigian

Participated in 2013

Alumni

I chose ISA over other study abroad programs because of their course offerings, program length, and last but not least: their affordability.

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Katie Campbell

Katie Campbell

Participated in 2013

Alumni

There were a few specific factors that helped me to choose ISA, including location and whether or not classes in English were available. I had heard that Valparaíso was a fantastic place to live and study, so I was focusing on that city. I also looked at student reviews on ISA’s website for that city and program, and they were overwhelmingly positive. ISA seemed to offer pretty much everything I needed or was looking for academically and personality-wise, and I don’t regret choosing them at all..

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Quinn Biever

Quinn Biever

Participated in 2013

Alumni

Originally, I was going to study abroad with another program. However, the requirements were too strict and the process of transferring my credits seemed too uncertain and difficult. So, I restarted my search for another program and looked into ISA due to the recommendation of a friend. The classes ISA offered proved to transfer much easier, and all other aspects of the application and preparation process proved to be much simpler and provide more guided assistance.

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Alexa Kroonblawd

Alexa Kroonblawd

Participated in 2013

Alumni

I chose ISA over other study abroad programs because I had other friends who went through their company and had nothing but good things to say. I did my own research to see if it met the requirements that I was personally looking for, including location and classes offered. The ISA Valencia program fit perfectly with what I wanted because Valencia had a temperate climate, was close to the water, had less tourists, and had an interesting history.

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Anna Butz

Anna Butz

Participated in 2013

Alumni

I chose ISA over other study abroad programs for many reasons. The first reason is that I was to live with a host family with ISA, and I believe that in order to have a truly intercultural experience, living with a host family is one of the best ways to practice language and learn about life in a new culture.

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Alexandra Cancro

Alexandra Cancro

Participated in 2012

Alumni

The reason I choose ISA was because of the committed attention that they give to each student. From information about the program to following up after I was back in the United States, ISA was there to answer my questions and help me through the tough processes involved with study abroad. They helped me obtain a visa and with my plans from the time I left till the time I returned.

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Lindy Nelson

Lindy Nelson

Participated in 2013

Alumni

I chose to study with ISA because they had the option for a 10-week experience. I did the joint ISA and eLAP program. I loved it because I got to study for five weeks and then work in Lima for the following five weeks. I was able to work on my Spanish while studying and then got to really use what I had learned while working.

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Bao Yang

Bao Yang

Participated in 2013

Alumni

I think it all came down to cost and benefits for me. I wanted the most bang for my buck. When I compared other programs to ISA, ISA was just a better fit for me. I think

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Marisa Bennett

Marisa Bennett

Participated in 2012

Alumni

I initially found out about ISA when I stopped to talk to a representative who had their study abroad table set up in the student center on my university campus. What really was the deciding factor for me to choose ISA, however, was that fact that I was set on spending a semester in the Middle East--a destination with limited program locations to study at.

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Siena Terenzio

Siena Terenzio

Participated in 2013

Alumni

I spent weeks researching all of the different study abroad programs offered in Spain. I went back and forth between cities and companies until I found the perfect fit: Sevilla, Spain with ISA. I chose to go abroad with ISA for starters because of their price - obviously, when I was searching through all my options the price was one of the top deciding factors, and ISA had prices that were very reasonable given my budget.

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Danielle Adone

Danielle Adone

Participated in 2011

Alumni

When my best friend Francesca and I decided to study abroad, we knew our biggest obstacle would be getting our parents’ approval. We wanted to find a program that would give us the experience we were looking for while allowing our parents to know that we were safe. The application process was a long one but ISA made it so easy to find the right country and program.

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Quincy Snowdon

Quincy Snowdon

Participated in 2014

Alumni

Quite honestly, I didn't have much of a choice in regards to choosing ISA. My university (DU) partners with ISA in many cities around the world (including Salamanca), and by having them as an affiliated study abroad "partner program" students are awarded various perks that they would not get if they were to select another program - the big one being that while abroad students pay the same tuition price as if they were still on-campus in Denver. Having said that, I feel I may have ended up choosing to study through ISA regardless, as they are so accommodating, organized and kind in helping you with anything you need while abroad, travel preparations, and dealing with credit transfers, transcripts etc. Big shout out to the ISA team of: Carmen, Rodrigo, Bea and Sofia for being incredibly awesome, making everything super easy and everyone's time in Salamanca such a blast.

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Alex Samuely

Alex Samuely

Participated in 2013

Alumni

ISA immediately stood out to me because of its all-inclusive package. It includes housing, food, any school fees- basically every large cost except for the plane ticket. That immediately makes things easier when relocating to a foreign country for a few months. The other large draw for me was its excursions to other cities, which were also included in the price. While studying abroad in Salamanca, I visited Segovia and Seville in Spain and Lisbon in Portugal. They were fun-filled weekends with plenty of sightseeing and top-notch accommodations. Furthermore, everyone in the ISA program went on these excursions, so I was guaranteed to have all of my friends there.

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Claudia Martinez

Claudia Martinez

Participated in 2013

Alumni

I searched high and low for the perfect study abroad program. For me, ISA had the best balance of cultural integration, scholastics, and FUN. It was evident to me that their top priority was ensuring we had the best possible experience before, during, and after our trip. I couldn’t have asked for a better program.

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Natalie Farell

Natalie Farell

Participated in 2010

Alumni

I decided to study abroad because I had always wanted to travel and see the world. I also thought it would be a great learning experience being on my own and far away from my support system for the first time in my life. The hard part was deciding where to study. The possibilities are endless! 

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Liza Callis

Liza Callis

Participated in 2012

Alumni

I chose to study abroad because I never left my hometown to go to college. I felt like I was missing out on the college experience because I didn't even live in a dorm or have a meal plan. College to me was just an expansion of high school; same friends, same place, same life. I needed time for me, I needed to get away, if just for a few months, I needed to feel that sense of independence and homesickness. I wanted to live a little.

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WorldStrides

WorldStrides

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As a leader in international education since 1987, ISA by WorldStrides is committed to providing university-level students with the opportunity to discover, learn, and enjoy a way of life other than their own. We offer a diverse portfolio of study abroad programs across Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America, and the Pacific. We continuously seek to provide high-quality experiences for university students at an affordable price. Each year, thousands of students participate in our programs, including custom programs, service-learning and internships, Gap year programs, Veritas Christian Study Abroad, and EuroScholars undergraduate research. We distinguish ourselves by maintaining our dedication to each student and our comprehensive on-site support offered through resident staff in nearly 75 pr...

Awards

Check out awards and recognitions WorldStrides has received

Notable Mention - GoAbroad Top Rated Study Abroad Providers 2024Top Rated Provider 2023 - Notable MentionInnovative Student Video Finalist 2022Innovation in Alumni Engagement Finalist 2022