Culture Study Abroad Programs

I studied abroad in Italy for my Spring Semester and going into this, I was incredibly stressed. But WorldStrides made all the difference in my experience. They provided all the resources that I felt I might need for any situation. They took us on some excursions during the semester and they were well planned and super fun! I would go on another study abroad trip with WorldStrides.

I actually can’t recommend this program enough. It seriously changed my life. First off, the staff from worldstrides alone should be enough to sell you. I felt more supported by the mentors in Lima then I did in my university in the states. Michelle and Christy are some of the most caring people I have ever met. They were incredibly helpful- I was absolutely sure I could ask them about anything and they would happily help. They went out of their way to make sure we had the best experience possible, from giving dance/surf class recommendations to accompanying a student to the hospital when they felt sick. My host mom, Doris, was absolutely spectacular. Not only was she so sweet and patient, she was also incredibly accommodating (and such a good cook). My roommates had dietary restrictions (One didn’t eat red meat, the other was lactose intolerant), and she worked hard to make sure everyone felt comfortable. She was so patient and helpful as we practiced our spanish. I still call her every other week! Besides the wonderful people involved, Peru as a whole is absolutely amazing. Go. Please. It has something for everyone. It’s one of the gastronomic capitals of the world, so the food is amazing. Worldstrides takes you on both included (Historical district, huacachina (with sand surfing)) and extra excursions. I was lucky enough to be able to go on the extra trips to the amazon (absolutely crazy), and to Machu Picchu. It’s a once in a lifetime experience. Lima is an amazing city with so many events, you’ll never be bored. I did everything from attend an interactive spanish-adaptation of the broadway show “Next to Normal” (phenomenal), to participate in Miraflores’ community zumba classes, to go to a circus, to march in Lima’s pride parade, to fish for piranhas in the amazon. I did the 2-month summer program, and it was spectacular. The first month, I took classes at Cayetano Heredia- Medical Spanish and Community Health. Weekdays were sometimes a little long, but all the teachers were SO supportive and amazing. You get to learn from and shadow practicing doctors and see how healthcare works in Peru, which is a FANTASTIC experience! We even got the opportunity to run a simulated clinical visit with actual actors. The second month, we got to volunteer with Aprendo Contigo, an organization that works to ensure hospitalized children don’t fall behind in schoolwork. We got to have the chance to see what we learned manifest in real life and have real patient interactions. I left wanting to come back as soon as possible, and legitimately considered staying in college for an extra semester just to be able to stay for a whole semester.

I really loved my experience with Worldstrides in Cusco. The program staff was incredibly knowledgable about the topic material, and also very helpful with local things to do and get involved with. I really loved my classes and also the location in Cusco, where there was so much to do, especially as someone who loves hiking, being outside, and traveling. My professors were also really engaging and clearly really interested in the class material and enjoyed teaching us. Overall, I could not have asked for a program which better fit my own interests and created such a positive atmosphere.

My time in Barcelona was one of the best experiences in my life. Out of all the cities I visited when I was abroad, Barcelona was by far my favorite and I was always so excited to come back from traveling. I loved the people, the metro, the city, and the beach. There was always something going on to have the best time of your life.

Studying abroad in Sevilla was one of the best experiences of my college years. I chose Sevilla because I wanted to improve my Spanish and truly immerse myself in the language and culture, and I got so much more out of the experience than I expected. One of my favorite things was walking through the streets around the Plaza de España and Parque de María Luisa, especially in the afternoon when I had a break from class. From eating lunch that my host dad cooked to exploring Sevilla with my roommate and practicing Spanish in everyday situations, I became much more comfortable and independent. Sevilla slowly started to feel like home, and leaving was honestly one of the hardest parts. I made memories and friendships that I will carry with me for the rest of my life, and I would absolutely recommend Sevilla to anyone considering studying abroad.

My time in Rome with CEA was the most amazing summer of my life. I came into the program knowing no one; I had no family in Rome, and I didn't speak Italian. But as soon as I met my roommates, we clicked right away and became the best of friends! Living together was so much fun; we'd do grocery runs whenever we needed food, which was the easiest supply run I have ever done since the grocery stores around our apartment were maybe two minutes away in each direction. We'd go out to dinner, trying local Roman pasta like Rigatoni all'Amatriciana, which became a favorite amongst our group; we'd get gelato practically every night! We even traveled together while we were there, heading off to different countries on the weekends when we found the time! Our group meshed so incredibly well and I had the time of my life with them. The memories we made are some of my most precious; we watched Off Campus together, shouting at the screen when someone did something wrong; we walked to the Colosseum in the middle of the night just because we wanted to see the sights; we watched FIFA on the Tiber River banks with other tourists and locals. It was so great that now it feels like a dream. The travel around Italy was so incredibly easy! Flying out of Fiumicino Airport took no time whatsoever when you were traveling within the EU and was incredibly easy to get to from our apartment in Prati. I got really used to taking public transport while I was there, and though it was intimidating at first, it was so easy after I got used to it. Taking the A line to Termini and the train to the airport was honestly a fun experience. I had a great time exploring the transportation options in Rome. Lastly, the administration in Rome for CEA CAPA was absolutely incredible! They made us all feel so welcome and were very conscientious of our needs, always making themselves available if we needed them! The professors were wonderful as well! My Art and Archaeology professor and Photography professor were incredible women and very skilled in their chosen disciplines! They took us across Rome to study sites and help us hone our skills to become better acquainted with history and photography. It was incredible to actually go into the Roman Forum and the Colosseum to study their history! My time in Rome was honestly the best time! I grew so much in confidence as I learned to live comfortably in a new culture. Everything from the academics to the lifestyle of the city was incredible and I can't wait to go back!

My study abroad experience with CEA CAPA in Antibes France was truly one of the best decisions I have ever made! I made so many core memories I will never forget and stories that I cherish. I meat people from all over the world and expanded my global perspective. I learned what it means to live and “adult” in a different country. But most importantly I got to live a life full of adventure and freedom that I would have never experienced if it was not for CEA CAPA!

Thanks to World Campus International, I was able to experience various rather unique experiences in Japan - things that a normal tourist would never be able to experience. In Isa, Kumamoto and Uda, there wasn't a single day that wasn't full of interesting stuff. While for some the rather packed schedule might be a minus, I for one really liked it, since the activities showed you things you'd normally never be able to participate in, such as (just some examples): going to a local farm and planting rice, being part of an actual Shinto ceremony, going to various schools, and of course the best part: doing stuff with your host families. The host family aspect alone elevates this project to a perfect score for me. It is a really unique experience to fully immerse yourself in normal local life, and interact with locals. The people I lived with, I am eternally grateful to, and my time with them I'll forever hold close to my heart. The other participants along with the staff where also very pleasant to be around, and in the staff's case also very helpful and kind. My time spend in those 3 locations will forever stay with me as an unforgettable experience. If I could, I'd do it all over again without hesitation. I am extremely grateful that I was able to partake in this program.

It is difficult to find the words to describe what an incredible time I had in Paris with CEA Study Abroad. My life is forever changed because of my time in Paris. Meeting new people, experiencing new cultures, having to converse in a language I had never studied grew me more than I could have imagined. The CEA staff was extremly organized and welcoming, beginning to end and calmed the nerves I had landing in Paris. I will never forget my experience and will forever be grateful to the CEA team

In the program, myself and fellow students at my university really connected with the hosts of the program- both when they were professors for teaching us Darija and culture and guides in new cities. It would not have been the same for me in Morocco without them, and they have set me up on a good track for the entirety of my experience since and in the future. And this was all in 2024! They have had years to improve and refine their skills.

I had the best time in Morocco. It will always hold a special place in my heart. Marwane and his team played a major role in that. They have the kindest hearts and truly want you to learn and understand the place they call home and why it is so special to them. I could not have asked for a better experience and team to do this with. I will cherish this time in Morocco eternally. I highly recommend Marwane and his team. Cheers!

I had the most amazing experience studying abroad in Sydney. I specifically went to UNSW, which is super close to the beach. I was able to make best friends that I'll cherish forever, and together we made such amazing memories like surfing, snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef, and travelling to different parts of Australia, and even New Zealand! I'm so grateful for everything this experience brought me; I made lifelong friends, but also grew so much as a person and connected a lot with myself!! :) Even though it might be nerve-wracking at first to do it alone, be proud of putting yourself out there! In no time, you will make amazing friends and memories, and hopefully fall in love with Australia like I did :) Make the most out of your experience and say yes to all the activities you can.

Lingua Compass left a Rabat shaped hole in my heart and was an experience that will always stay with me. Marwan and the rest of the team place you right in the heart of Moroccan hospitality, in which guests are treated with the same warmth as a long lost friend. I also had a thoroughly immersive cultural experience, not stopping at the surface of Moroccan culture, but exploring the history, geography, and complex aspects of the country. This is all coupled with really experienced language teachers who use a skills-based, speaking-first model - which is very refreshing for anyone who has ever suffered through Arabic grammar. Thank you Lingua Compass! ❤️🩵

I spent 4 good months in Athens, Greece and had the absolute best time of my life! The program I went through was with WorldStrides (duh) and they were extremely helpful. You have constant support online where you can text your on the ground world strides staff and/or contact the Worldstrides online support staff. The in person office was also a pretty short walk away so we had no issue getting help. Then there was Greece! Out of the 11 countries I have been to outside of the USA it was my absolute favorite. I will always consider it my home away from home for as long as I live and can't wait to go back!

Studying abroad in Seville, Spain, was one of the most meaningful experiences I have had in college. As a first-generation college student, studying abroad was something I was not always sure would be possible for me, so being able to spend a month in Spain was a major accomplishment. During my time abroad, I took classes that allowed me to learn more about Spanish culture, communication, food, and history while also experiencing these things outside of the classroom. I visited important places such as the Real Alcázar, Plaza de España, and the Cathedral of Seville, and I also had the opportunity to travel to Lisbon, Portugal. One of my favorite parts of the experience was living with my host parents, Mama Rosa and Papa Norberto, because they helped me feel more connected to the local culture and gave me a home away from home. I also became close with the other students in my program and made friendships that I will always value. Being abroad pushed me outside of my comfort zone and helped me become more independent and confident. I returned home with a stronger sense of independence and memories that I will carry with me throughout college and beyond.

Studying abroad in Seville, Spain at the Universidad Pablo de Olavide was the absolute best decision of my life. If I had to sum up my experience, I truly feel like I lived five different lives in just one semester. From day one, the program opened doors to experiences I never thought possible. I was able to fully embrace the vibrant Spanish culture, watch breathtaking flamenco shows right in Seville, taste amazing food, and meet some of the most incredible people.My classes at Pablo de Olavide were challenging, but incredibly rewarding. One of the absolute best perks of the schedule was having no classes on Fridays. That three-day weekend gave my friends and me the freedom to book a flight on a whim, explore six different countries, and immerse ourselves in entirely different cultures. Traveling the world with your friends is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Because of that flexibility, my memories feel endless: - Riding camels through the Sahara Desert - Exploring street markets in London - Eating authentic pasta in Rome - Creating a bond with a group of girls that I know I will have with me for the rest of my life I tasted unforgettable food, grew so much, and created memories that will last forever. If you want a program that challenges you academically while giving you the ultimate freedom to explore the world, this is it. It is an unforgettable experience that stays with you long after you fly home!

Studying abroad in Athens with worldstrides was a great decision. The program was great, including very good supportive staff and very good housing. There was also some anwesome events that were held where we traveled to different places and explored/learned history. They also accounted for location in the US when pairing roommates so I ended up living with and making friends with some people who are nearby back home!

Studying abroad in Barcelona through WorldStrides was one of the most meaningful experiences of my college experience. Spending a semester in Spain gave me the opportunity to step outside my comfort zone, immerse myself in a new culture, and grow both personally and academically. One of my favorite parts of the experience was being able to practice Spanish in everyday situations and learn from the people and culture around me. Living in a different country challenged me to become more independent, adaptable, and open-minded. I gained a greater appreciation for perspectives different from my own and developed a confidence that I know I will carry with me long after returning home. WorldStrides provided an opportunity to experience Barcelona beyond what I could have learned in a classroom. From exploring the city to building relationships and navigating new experiences, every part of the program contributed to my growth. I would highly recommend WorldStrides to anyone considering studying abroad. It is an experience that pushes you to learn, explore, and discover more about yourself while creating memories that last a lifetime. I'm incredibly grateful for my time in Barcelona and the impact it has had on my personal and academic journey.

Forum-Nexus was an amazing experience. I made many new friends, enjoyed the professional and cultural visits, and loved the balance between school and fun. The staff was amazing, and I would definitely recommend it.

Studying abroad was one of the most meaningful experiences I have had as a college student. It gave me the opportunity to step outside of my comfort zone, experience a new culture, and meet people from different backgrounds. Being in a new environment challenged me to become more independent, adaptable, and confident in myself. What made the experience especially memorable was being able to learn outside of the classroom. Exploring new places, trying different foods, and experiencing the local culture helped me see the world from a different perspective. I also learned that you don’t have to be completely comfortable or know everything before taking a new opportunity. Sometimes, the best experiences come from putting yourself out there and being willing to try something new. Studying abroad helped me grow both personally and academically, and it gave me memories that I will carry with me long after college. I would encourage other students to take advantage of the opportunity if they can because it is an experience that can truly change the way you see yourself and the world around you.