Reviews

Provider: International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]

Program: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!

Once I decided to volunteer, IVHQs website helped me easily arrange the rest. I chose Cambodia as I had been there before and thought this was a good place to start my volunteering journey. As an older single traveller i needed to feel safe about what I was doing. I have the confidence now to go anywhere with IVHQ. All the inclusions, information and arrangements as part of the program all happened as IVHQ said it would.

Provider: Floating Doctors

Program: Support Animal Health in Remote Islands of Bocas del Toro

I had the amazing time with Floating Doctors in Panama. Managed to see first hand how One Health approach in remote communities. Being a vet myself, it was an amazing for me to both learn and contribute. Rewarding but challenging, Floating Doctors is achieving a tremendous, community-led change.

Provider: Webster University Athens

Program: Odyssey in Athens Study Abroad Program, Webster Athens

While I was in Greece, I visited a few Islands and a Tonne of nice restaurants. The people were wonderful and so welcoming It became a second home to me. I wish desperately that I could go back but unfortunately I'm in my senior year and can't travel abroad again but I definitely will be going back soon.

Provider: Teach Explore Asia (XploreAsia)

Program: Xplore Thailand TEFL Program with Guaranteed Placement

There are a lot of reasons people choose to go abroad. Beyond broadening your own horizons, travel offers the opportunity to encounter people and ways of life that are fundamentally different from what you are accustomed to. Travel is perhaps one of the only things you can spend money on that will actually make you richer. It brings a wealth that extends beyond materialism and can be genuinely life-changing. But how is this possible? The reason is deceptively simple: knowledge is power. In fact, it is the only kind of power that can never be taken away from someone. The converse of this is equally true: ignorance is a vulnerability that can and will be exploited by those with their own designs. Anyone claiming to have a monopoly on the truth is either delusional or attempting to deceive you for their own gain. Knowledge of reality is your greatest defense against manipulation. The belief that there is only one correct way of being human and relating to the world, and that you alone are correct, is an incredibly isolating mindset. This arrogance and tacit belief in your own superiority make it nearly impossible to genuinely connect with other people, particularly with those different from you. When that happens, you become trapped in an echochamber of your own prejudice, and are doomed to a life of bitterness spent out of touch with reality. This existence is necessarily unsatisfying because it is exactly contrary to our nature as social creatures. What led our species to prominence in the first place was the exchange of ideas, shared knowledge, and our capacity to cooperate. Life is better for everyone when we take care of each other, and humanity has seen the greatest leaps in progress when we’ve acted accordingly. On your own, life can be incredibly difficult. The knowledge and power of a single individual do not amount to the concerted efforts and support of a group. Regardless of the narratives being championed in the West, success does not happen without support in one form or another. Even if the help goes unacknowledged, it remains integral nonetheless. An exceptionally challenging part of adulthood is making peace with the fact that the things you don’t understand far exceed the things you do. This is difficult because few people like being confronted with the insignificance of their existence in the grand scheme of things. It makes them feel powerless. However, recognizing the limits of your own understanding and what you still have to learn are an essential part of continued growth and development in adulthood. You must come to terms with reality before you can hope to make a difference in it. In some ways, this knowledge is liberating. It is only after freeing yourself from these delusions of grandeur that you can start to find meaning in the everyday. Being human is about making meaningful connections because it is these connections that teach us about ourselves and our world. Oftentimes, you won’t know what you don’t know until someone else shows you a different way. Sometimes that way is better, and sometimes it’s not, but either way, you gain a deeper understanding of how you want to live your life. In other words, you get to make an informed decision about the existence you want to lead instead of passively accepting the life someone else has prepared for you. This is what I mean when I say that travel can enrich you. However, as with all things, the experience of going abroad will ultimately be what you make of it. If you choose to seek out reasons to be miserable, you will find them. Obstacles are a part of life, and you will encounter them regardless of where you are. But if you can make peace with that, and are willing to open yourself to new experiences anyway, there is a world of endless wonders waiting for you to discover it. I have had a really great experience with XploreAsia, and I would recommend their Thailand program to anyone hoping to set themselves up abroad. They support you every step of the way, and are exceptionally competent and reliable. It can be very intimidating to start a new life in a foreign country, especially one where you don’t speak the language, but I’ve been really impressed by how seamless they have made the transition. It is very clear that everyone there knows what they’re doing, and they have truly set me up with everything I need to succeed. I have gotten to meet so many wonderful people and experience a life here I never would have dreamed possible for myself back in the States. This decision is easily one of the best I’ve ever made. I hope that anyone who has always wanted to travel but been held back by fear will have the good fortune to come across XploreAsia’s variety of programs. Wonders beyond your imagination are just a plane ride away. Happy travels! : )

Provider: Touch the World

Program: MissionYear - Discipleship & Missions Gap Year

This was an experience that became so much more than I expected. What began as an opportunity to take a gap year, serve others, and experience a different part of the world turned into a year of growth, unexpected friendships, new perspectives, and lessons I will carry with me. Some of my favorite memories are from the everyday moments in between the serving and learning: laughing with teammates, getting to know the people around me, navigating unfamiliar situations, and learning to find joy in the unexpected. Looking back, I am grateful for all of it: the places I went, the people I met, the family I entered, the things that I learned, even the parts that were uncomfortable and stretched me. It was a year I will always be grateful I said yes to!

Provider: Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona

Program: Study Abroad at UAB: Pre-Established Courses

I had a really great time meeting new people and learning about the history and culture of my host country and others that I’ve traveled to. There have been so many experiences that I have lived through but I enjoy reflecting on them more than just looking back at memories. Reflecting on my experiences made me more aware of all the cultural differences that I’ve gone through while living and studying abroad. I have previously done two other exchanges before my 3rd in Barcelona. Each one has opened my perspective more and more as each day has gone by. With each exchange I’ve learned about so many cultures including my own. Putting yourself in a new environment all by yourself away from everything you know including your routine, family, home culture, and more can be hard but actually doing it and figuring it out on your own is the most rewarding part of it. In life we tend to stick to things we already know about when you go abroad or to a new place and start all over again it helps you grow as a person. You get to meet new people and really learn about things you normally wouldn’t have learned. In my opinion studying abroad is more special compared to anything you’ve seen online. You have to be the one to do it and experience it for yourself.

Provider: CES Maastricht

Program: Politics, Law & International Relations in Europe

Studying in Maastricht with CES truly could not have been a more humbling experience. Through miraculous highs and lows, the CES staff were kind, friendly, accessible, and made life in Maastricht a dream. They helped me navigate difficult yet rewarding coursework, mental health, cultural immersion and adjustment to Dutch university life as an international student, and most importantly, helped me navigate a significant injury I endured at the end of my semester. The staff members who were there for me during that challenging time are still my close friends and confidants to this day. There has truly not been anything in my life that left an impression the way CES did, and continues to have on my life. I am still connected with staff and alumni. Not only did I make American friends within the CES program, the UM Guesthouse introduced me to a vibrant international friend group that I get to travel the world (and back to the Netherlands) to spend time with. Ultimately, the most meaningful and significant chapter of my life occurred while studying at CES Maastricht, and I am grateful every day.

Provider: Molise Italian Studies

Program: Molise Italian Studies Full Semester (& Internship)

I had the pleasure of attending Molise Italian Studies in Fall of 2023. I was placed with a local family who owned a truffle business, Di Iorio Tartufi. I had the opportunity of leading tours for international visitors to the farm, truffle hunting with some adorable puppies and preparing and eating 4 course meals made with freshly hunted truffles. What stands out about MIS as opposed to other abroad opportunities is that it provided a fully culturally immersive experience, that was supported by cultural awareness and sensitivity. The classes I took during the semester centered around global citizenship and cultural awareness. As I currently study to become a mental health therapist I often draw from the cultural competency MIS taught me in order to become a culturally competent mental health professional. Although study abroad in Molise sometimes felt isolating due to its more rural setting it provided me the confidence to seek discomfort long as as a form of growth long after my semester abroad ended. Through the weekly or biweekly excursions provided by MIS i was able to explore a side of Italy I would have likely never seen as a tourist. I gained a deep appreciation for the beauty of the italian countryside, it’s unique cultural heritage and the serendipitous encounters you have while traveling off the beaten path. I also had lots of opportunities to explore major cities in Italy including Rome, Florence and Naples. MIS helped to reshape my prior notions of what school could look like when curiosity and exploration are the learning objectives rather than rigid performance metrics. It empowered me to be a life-long learner and global citizen.

Provider: Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona

Program: Study Abroad at UAB: Pre-Established Courses

I have learned a lot about myself, gotten new friends and learned to live in a new country by my own. I think Barcelona has been a wonderfull city to choose. Friendly people, very cozy cafés and life like Streets everywhere any day of the week. I would recommend anyone going who might be in doubt - do it!

Provider: AB Travel

Program: Glimpse of Bhutan this summer.

This trip was an absolute dream! Experiencing the local culture, tradition, and stunning natural beauty firsthand was so special. Every moment felt amazing, the vibe was unmatched, and the people were so welcoming. It was hands-down one of the best experiences I've had, and I would love to go back again!

Provider: Absolute Internship

Program: Intern in Madrid with Absolute Internship

July - August 2017 Almost one month, a new country, and memories for a lifetime. My internship in Madrid with Absolute Internship was so much more than work experience. It was my first exposure to HR, and what better way to kick-start my career than abroad, in Spain. Absolute Internship matched me with a lovely school, where I worked alongside the headmistress and office assistant during the summer. From reviewing CVs and shortlisting candidates to coordinating interviews and handling all the admin jazz, I got a genuine taste of working recruitment side of HR. One thing I'll never forget? My daily 45-minute train journey to school. At the time, it was simply my commute, but looking back, it was part of the experience that taught me independence, responsibility and what adult working life could actually be and feel like. And of course, Madrid wouldn't have been the same without the people. I was lucky enough to share this experience with an international group of interns from Bulgaria, Mexico, USA, alongside me from Cyprus. We quickly became a little team, exploring Madrid, discovering its nightlife and making memories together. I arrived in Spain looking for professional experience, but left with new skills, greater confidence, international friendships and a whole lot of stories. If you're considering an internship abroad, take the leap. Change is always scary, but that's how you know that taking this leap might be one of the greatest experiences you'll carry with you. You might go for the career experience, but come home with so much more. ❤️ P.S.: Back in 2017, taking pictures were more minimal & the quality of it.

Provider: Absolute Internship

Program: Intern in Barcelona with Absolute Internship

An Unforgettable, Life-Changing Experience! If I could sum up my internship in one sentence, it would be this: it was, without a doubt, the absolute best time of my entire life. Going into the program, I expected to build my resume and learn the ropes of the industry. What I actually walked away with completely blew me away. The culture here is unmatched, but what made it truly magical was the people. We shared endless laughs, navigated every challenge together, and built a connection so deep that they stopped being just friends, they became my family. To this day, I am still in close contact with almost everyone from my cohort. This program didn't just jumpstart my career; it gave me a lifelong tribe. I cannot praise this company, the culture, and the incredible people highly enough!

Provider: Absolute Internship

Program: Intern in Barcelona with Absolute Internship

An Unforgettable, Life-Changing Experience! If I could sum up my internship in one sentence, it would be this: it was, without a doubt, the absolute best time of my entire life. Going into the program, I expected to build my resume and learn the ropes of the industry. What I actually walked away with completely blew me away. The culture here is unmatched, but what made it truly magical was the people. We shared endless laughs, navigated every challenge together, and built a connection so deep that they stopped being just friends, they became my family. To this day, I am still in close contact with almost everyone from my cohort. This program didn't just jumpstart my career; it gave me a lifelong tribe. I cannot praise this company, the culture, and the incredible people highly enough!

Provider: Rooted Life Adventures

Program: Rooted Life Adventures Supported Gap Year in New Zealand

I had such a great time with Rooted Life because they made the traveling logistics easy, hired great counselors and made the whole experience life changing. Austin and Mechi handeled most of the logistics and did a fantastic job while Liam, Peter and Molly were really invloved in getting to know each student. Rooted Life did a very good job at making me and everyone feel included. New zealand overall was beautiful. The Program allowed us to see all over the south island of New Zealand. Milford sound was one of my favorite. This program is awesome and met 2 really good friends who I am still in contact with. 10/10 experience. Highly recommend

Provider: Absolute Internship

Program: Intern in Barcelona with Absolute Internship

An Unforgettable, Life-Changing Experience! If I could sum up my internship in one sentence, it would be this: it was, without a doubt, the absolute best time of my entire life. Going into the program, I expected to build my resume and learn the ropes of the industry. What I actually walked away with completely blew me away. The culture here is unmatched, but what made it truly magical was the people. We shared endless laughs, navigated every challenge together, and built a connection so deep that they stopped being just friends, they became my family. To this day, I am still in close contact with almost everyone from my cohort. This program didn't just jumpstart my career; it gave me a lifelong tribe. I cannot praise this company, the culture, and the incredible people highly enough!

Provider: Absolute Internship

Program: Intern in Barcelona with Absolute Internship

An Unforgettable, Life-Changing Experience! If I could sum up my internship in one sentence, it would be this: it was, without a doubt, the absolute best time of my entire life. Going into the program, I expected to build my resume and learn the ropes of the industry. What I actually walked away with completely blew me away. The culture here is unmatched, but what made it truly magical was the people. We shared endless laughs, navigated every challenge together, and built a connection so deep that they stopped being just friends, they became my family. To this day, I am still in close contact with almost everyone from my cohort. This program didn't just jumpstart my career; it gave me a lifelong tribe. I cannot praise this company, the culture, and the incredible people highly enough!

Provider: Absolute Internship

Program: Intern in Barcelona with Absolute Internship

An Unforgettable, Life-Changing Experience! If I could sum up my internship in one sentence, it would be this: it was, without a doubt, the absolute best time of my entire life. Going into the program, I expected to build my resume and learn the ropes of the industry. What I actually walked away with completely blew me away. The culture here is unmatched, but what made it truly magical was the people. We shared endless laughs, navigated every challenge together, and built a connection so deep that they stopped being just friends, they became my family. To this day, I am still in close contact with almost everyone from my cohort. This program didn't just jumpstart my career; it gave me a lifelong tribe. I cannot praise this company, the culture, and the incredible people highly enough!

Provider: Floating Doctors

Program: Support Animal Health in Remote Islands of Bocas del Toro

Wepa! I’m Alejandra Carbonell, a 3rd-year veterinary student from Puerto Rico 🇵🇷. I had long hoped to find an experience that would push me beyond what I knew, allow me to serve others, and experience a world beyond my own. But what I found with Floating Doctors went far beyond anything I could have imagined. For a month, it truly felt like I was living in a movie. Having grown up with relatively easy access to healthcare and health information, this experience served as a powerful reminder that health education is just as important as healthcare itself when it comes to creating sustainable change, especially in communities with limited access to care. During my time with Floating Doctors, I witnessed the lengths the team goes to reach these communities: from four-hour hikes through the mountains to five-hour boat rides across open waters. No mountain was too high and no journey was too far. As a veterinary student, I had the opportunity to grow in ways I never expected. I performed my first three spays, in an outdoor setting with the guidance of two passionate veterinarians and also the curious supervision of the kids from the community. I was also able to assist with an extremely rare ectopic pregnancy spay, encountered many cases of TVT, botflies, and screwworms and had the opportunity to serve as a translator between providers and patients. Outside of the clinic, I was lucky enough to witness dolphins leaping through the water, a sloth peacefully sleeping alongside her baby in a palm tree, glow worms visiting us on a full moon, and, on our very last day, a nurse shark circling the dock, as if coming to say goodbye. Staying with the communities where phones couldn’t always be charged,Wi-Fi couldn’t be reached and hot showers were not available reminded me that in simplicity we find true connection. Sometimes, it looks like bathing in the river with scrubs on, playing cards under the light of our headlamps, looking at the fireflies or bioluminescence under a summer night, watching children turn a wheelbarrow into a river float or sharing traditional dances from our home countries. Not even in my wildest dreams did I think I would be able to live an experience as wonderful as this and meet such beautiful souls from different parts of the world. Floating Doctors will stay with me forever; not just in my memories, but quite literally on my skin. Biti Ja Tuäita — “Nos vemos” / “See you later” en Ngäbe-Buglé.

Provider: Connect-123 Internship Programs

Program: Intern in Dublin with Connect-123!

Studying abroad in Dublin, Ireland, and participating in the internship program was truly one of the best experiences of my life. I had the incredible opportunity to work at a medical negligence and personal injury law firm, where I gained valuable professional experience and developed a better understanding of the legal field. The placement exceeded my expectations, and I could not have asked for a better internship experience. Everyone was welcoming, supportive, and willing to help me learn, which made me feel comfortable and included from the very beginning. One of the aspects I appreciated most was how structured and organized the entire program was. From the initial preparation to the internship placement and support throughout the experience, everything was thoughtfully planned. The program provided clear expectations, consistent communication, and guidance whenever needed, which made the transition to living and working in another country so much easier. I always felt supported and knew there were resources available if I needed assistance. Beyond the professional opportunities, living in Dublin allowed me to immerse myself in a new culture, meet amazing people, explore Ireland, and step outside of my comfort zone. This experience helped me grow both personally and professionally, while giving me memories and connections that I will carry with me for years to come. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity and would highly recommend this program to anyone considering studying abroad or completing an international internship. It was truly an unforgettable experience, and I would do it all over again in a heartbeat!

Provider: AFS-USA

Program: AFS Intercultural Programs: High School Abroad in Brazil

I was placed with a family in Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul; a small town at the southern tip of Brasil. Driving there in the bus, we saw a lot of cows! There were so many different things to experience there. The seasons were different - I had left Missouri in the summer and arrived in winter. My new school had uniforms, and the students stayed in their classrooms while the teachers were rotated around during the day. The food in Brasil was amazing and I definitely became ‘Another Fat Student’, but I quickly lost the excess weight when I returned home. It was an amazing experience and definitely recommend that every high school student should have a study abroad experience !!